I recall a work friend getting one for 65k 4 years back, but now that in in the market for one they are starting at $25k?? Does anyone have a Prius -- what is your experience with mpg, drivability and safety as I have young children. Is the govt cash back program still in effect?
If you have young children why not try a Hybrid Sedan? I'm pretty sure Honda and Toyota make hybrid versions of the Accord and Camry. They would seem to fir your needs better due to the added room.
You might check out hyundais as well since they have better warranty. I was looking around at hybrids a few months ago and the batteries can be a problem after around 7 yrs so that made the Hyundai appealing Also, the new mazdas with skyactiv get pretty impressive mileage I ended up going the opposite direction with a maxima that gets terrible mileage
I test drove the Prius today - very impressed with it. I dont want to be a soccer mom. But I will have my kids in the backseat and their stuff in the trunk on weekends. I have not heard anything about the battery issue from a 4 yr owner. Drop in price worries me, any major issues in glossing over?
I don't recall Prii costing $65k. Especially not 4 years ago. Are you just getting it for the mileage/cost savings? If you're not dead set on the cheese wedge design, the Honda Accord Hybrid actually has good acceleration as well as almost the same mileage, if I recall, as the Prius (and doesn't look like a cheese wedge :grin: ). The only downside to the Accord Hybrid may be the rear seats do not fold from what I remember.
Hyundai's mileage for their hybrid is pathetic in comparison to a Prius or Accord Hybrid, from what I recall ... especially after they were forced to correct them. lol.
My gf has a 2005 Prius and it still gets excellent MPGs with no battery issues (knock on wood). And I know for sure it was not anywhere close to $65k! She didn't get a fully loaded model but a mid-level trim for less than $30k drive out back then.
Prius did have a crazy mark up when they were released. I don't know about $65k, but it was at least $10k over msrp.
Prius' are not worth the money -- you'll never pay the extra cost for those batteries. It's getting better, but it's still just a status vehicle of sorts -- plus they are slow and ugly -- bad combination.
Salesman told me they were $2.5k and normally had a minimum lifespan of 7-10 years. But, he works for Toyota. Will try the Tesla Model X tomorrow. I am definitely interested in the electric or hybrid concept and am willing to pay a premium. I would like to have the cars of the future in my possession and set a good example to those in my path. Appreciate the help fellas.
Side note: A friend of mine as one and they do not get close to the gas mileage advertised and she drives like a granny.
Ugh. Model X is for pre order only. I do reside in northern California and companies give heavy incentives to their employees to buy hybrid cars with low smog emissions. I am not an aggressive driver and really enjoyed driving the Prius. Guess I'll check out the Honda's!
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