And the Corolla hybrid LE costs about $2500 more to buy and has about $3000 higher depreciation and maint/repair costs over 5 years than the gasoline only Corolla LE. Long term they cost pretty much the same, just where and when the money is spent.
While the cost of ownership is essentially the same, driving 200,000 miles with the corolla hybrid will save me almost $9000 in gas over 6 years; $1,500/year saved. Maybe not the best choice for somebody in an area with low cost of gas, doesn't drive as much, or doesn't keep their cars long, but that amount of money saved per year for somebody who drives a lot or where gas is expensive is a good idea.