Hi there all! I've just purchased a brandy-new Prius, traded in my beloved 2000 Camry XLE..., it was like giving away a child...I loved that car so much, but alas, it had almost 200K and was starting to feel and look it's age. I am very happy with my new Prius, even though I finally figured out I can't transfer my phone book data from my iPhone. No big deal really. I would have continued my frustration and consternation had I not found this forum, so I am happy it exists! Did anyone here find that the Prius takes some getting used to as far as comfort? I am a runner, and in good shape, but I'm finding my hands are achy and so are my shoulders, after driving. I'm hoping that it's just using a new muscle group in a certain way. The steering wheel is smaller and it takes more "effort" overall to drive than my creampuff Camry did (sniff sniff)... Cheers from Maine! Karen
Welcome Karen! I do not notice my Pius being uncomfortable to drive but now that you mention it my arm does tend to get kind of sore after long trips. I'm not sure if it is from the driving or the activities I'm driving to. lol
Welcome aboard Karen! Fit and comfort in the Prius seems to be quite an individual thing. The biggest complaint seems to be the seat. I personally find that the car is sufficiently comfortable in all respects, it strikes me that people have grown to expect the comfort of their living-room recliner, and I'm not sure that's desireable. At the same time, we don't want to experience pain. I remember noticing that the steering wheel was unusually small when I first got the car, although I don't notice it now. It does adjust a bit. You might try some minor shifts in the steering wheel and seat positions to see if that resolves the arm/shoulder issues. I suspect that that, and a bit of time, will take care of things for you.
Congratulations on your new car! Like HardCase said, comfort really is individual. I've always loved driving and I cover long distances non stop. A few times a year I drive from NYC to Scarboro, ME and I do those 330 miles without stopping. I haven't experienced any discomfort at all. I do have one of those Wheelskins steering wheel covers on, but I had my car for about a year before I bought it so I don't think it factored into the comfort. And the covers don't make the wheel any cushier. I think you might get used to the arm issues like you suggested. At least you aren't having the more common complaint of back issues or leg pain. I'm a runner also (missed the Beach to Beacon registration this year... oops)
Karen, I noticed a similar thing last week; tight shoulders. It turned out to be a self-induced condition having to do with trying to get the best MPG possible using my ScanGuage. I was not only real tense, but at times I was subconsciously pulling on the steering wheel, I guess to pull the car over the hills! LOL Well, mine was a "personal problem," yours...? I'd say just relax, its a fun car to drive, enjoy the experience. The good MPGs will come as you learn the various tricks available here. Welcome to PriusChat. Good Luck.
