Adding TCH to Hybrid Fleet :-)

I do not own a TCH but I could see that being the car i'd buy as well if I were to get a second car down the road

 

tch???

 

Toyota Camry Hybrid

 

I had a TCH refuse to let me merge into traffic about 2 hours ago. I just love it when you put your signal on and someone purposely speeds up. Her hands went up when I jerked over anyway. I hate inconsiderate drivers.

 

"The turn signal is a warning, not a request"

 

We've had one for a couple months, replacing my wife's 2004 Prius. It is a much quieter and much more comfortable car than the Prius. The seats are far better than those in the Prius, the ride is not as busy on imperfect roads, and the traction control doesn't shut down the car when the slightest bit of slip is detected, unlike my Prius.

Considering the deep discounts that were available on the Camry hybrid recently, the TCH is much more car for the money than the Prius. I prefer to drive something the size of a Prius, and like the additional 10mpg, but the Camry is more enjoyable to drive. Oh yeah, the trunk is kind of small on the Camry already, even before sacrificing space to the battery.

 

LOL mah bad, i got it

 

what are dealers letting these go for? a couple of months ago you could get them under invoice...like the prius. but, not anymore. i am thinking about going the tch route since the prius wait is so long.

 

I am thinking about getting a TCH, I have rented a Prius, great car, seats a bit short on comfort for the long drive. The question I have is should I lease a TCH before I buy one or just go for it?

I am 280Lbs 6-2, if I were to buy one I want it fully loaded.

Last question, what kind of the mileage are people getting with the TCH?

Thanks.

 

Your last question is the easiest for me to answer:
2007 TCH, fully loaded.
To/from work (15 miles, rolling hills & 2 ravines) @ 50 mph:
With straight gas: 37 -> 39 mpg
With 10% ethanol (yech ): 33 -> 36 mpg
Interstate (Level)
55 -> 60 mph): 42 -> 44 mpg
65 + : 37 -> 40 mpg (very variable)

Should you lease or buy immediately? This one is HIGHLY subjective.
Will you ultimately buy in next 1-2 years? If so, purchase now may be option.
Not sure if you really want to buy a TCH, then lease for year may be appropriate. However, you MIGHT actually do better to buy TCH, then sell it in a year (IF TCH resale prices at that time are high.)

Only downside I have seen with my TCH might be the trunk due to Traction Battery placement. True, it takes up some trunk space, but that does not impact me that much. BIG problem is the loss of true "pass through" trunk to passenger compartment access. Granted, you can lay down rear sat backs, but it does not increase ability to carry longer items in trunk.