New 2010 IV w/ solar

I've been reading this site for a while, and bought a new silver 2010 back in early April. Figured it was time to post an intro post in the newb section.

I felt the need to do something. I moved to take a new job. My commute is about 52 miles one-way now...mostly highway with a 70 MPH speed limit. It was this or a diesel Jetta. I didn't want any part of those DPF systems, and 50 MPG with gas is better than 40 on #2.

I had been commuting in my diesel truck, and getting about 19-20 MPG. That's about $80/week in just fuel, to say nothing of tires and oil (11 qts).

I should point out that I'm not an environmentalist, just cheap.

So, I traded in my toy car, a 2008 Audi RS4, that wasn't getting as much use in the new location for the Prius. I'll miss the Audi. It was an awesome car (420hp). I even had it delivered in Germany so I could enjoy it over there before they shipped it.

I opted for a IV with the solar roof more for the sunroof than the solar part...and NAV because I like the other stuff that's easier with a screen, AUX in, BT phone, etc.

I considered a V, but I was worried about the lower profile tires on the roads here, which are a little rough...and it's not like they'd make it handle well, better, yes, but not well...at least not well as in RS4-well. So, I stayed true to the commuter eco-box theme and stuck to a IV.

It's been great so far. No problems. It's quiet on the road, and has a surprisingly good ride for a small car. I can play the mileage game if I want to, or fiddle with the NAV...or just drive it like a car.

The AC works great, and surprisingly, hardly affects the mileage at all. I think the new tint helps keep the heat load down on the really hot sunny days.

Of course, it wouldn't hurt my feelings if the fuel tank held 14 gallons...