Salve, Brand new here. Around March I plan on purchasing a new 2012 Prius 2. I've never owned, much less been inside a Prius. However, I've owned a Corolla that I bough brand new in 97 and it's been the perfect car. So I'm sticking with Toyota. Not to mention I abhor the high gas prices. I'd just like to get people's thoughts in general about their ownership experiences of Prii over time. Does the car hold up well after 60k or 100k? Are there any quirks to watch out for and most of all, any tips on avoiding dealer gouge? Although I plan on using a buying agent that is a free service with my bank, I'd just be interested in knowing what people's buying experiences were, esp in New England. I know this is alot, but I just want to be well prepared and need the info. Thanks!!
Read the owners manual online and get the salesman to promise in writing what 'customizations' he will make for free, sales can make service do this. http://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/om/OM47685U/pdf/sec_06-02.pdf The 2012 manual is not out yet. I have made a post outlining what sorts of people should not be considering a Prius. http://priuschat.com/forums/newbie-forum/94450-considering-prius.html#post1334003
I'd recommend taking two different packages out for a test drive, so you can compare the car to your current vehicle as well as see the differences in the packages. I'd recommend taking a package 2 and package 5 for a test drive. 1) You'll get a feel for the blindspots/split window/other things unique to the Prius. 2) You can compare the comfort of the cloth seats vs leather, lumbar supported, heated seats. As well as the comfort of the leather wrap steering wheel vs non wrapped. Determine if the interior will hold up to your amount of wear and tear. 3) You can compare the ride/performance of the 15" wheels vs 17" wheels. 4) You can determine if the backup camera and Nav (assuming they are on the package V) are worth it to you. 5) You can test the stereo to see if the upgrade is worth it and if you'd like built in blue tooth, (pckg 3 vs 2). 6) If you test at night, you can see the difference of the LED vs Halogen headlights. Good Luck!
You might get a great deal on a 2011 III or IV in Feb if you can locate one. The IV with Nav we bought last year was just $1k over your max price. We love buying cars through set price programs. The pricing is very fair and no bs when buying. We usually get new cars at or below invoice price. Welcome!
Heard that. You mentioned 2012 Two, so the bottom line sticker price with carpets mats should be ~ $24,960 We'll see what the discounts are in a few months. Other thing is you could seek a blowout price on a 2011 Three w/nav. I know a dealer that selling a few of those for $24,688 That ride gets Nav, backup camera, USB, upgraded JBL audio, handsfree.
