new 2010 vs. used 2008, thoughts?

Apparently the 10's do have their share of problems. BUT, there are also many enhancements. Bigger, more powerful, better handling, etc.

Seems the enhancements may outweigh the slight savings of getting a used '08.

 

For a $3000 difference, I would go for the 2010. The warranty and peace of mind is worth it.

 

My advice - drive, drive, drive. See what you like. For me the seats in the '10 were so much better on my back--ymmv. You are correct about possible bugs. Can you wait until the '11s come out?

Good luck!

 

If you go by what the threads here say, the 2010 is a rattling, gas guzzling, brakeless deathtrap! It's not. The 2010 is a great car and you would probably love it at least as much as your dear, departed 2006. Drive both cars that you're interested in and make your decision based on that. Good luck!

 

How much did you get for your totaled Prius?

I would upgrade to 2010 Prius if I am given a reasonable amount. This would be a great opportunity unless you want more of the same.

 

It all depends what you are used to and your expectations. Considering the OP have had a 06 Prius already and seems very happy with it, the 2010 will most likely meet his/her expectations well. For me... I will stay the heck out of the Prius legacy when time for replacement of my current 2010 comes...

 

I'll be a contrarian, you should go with the 2008.

The 2008 isn't that old, it has relatively low mileage, and the backup camera which you want. I expect it will be very reliable. There's a link in this thread to TrueDelta which may have more information on that for you. http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-main-forum/19877-reliability-information.html. One bit I don't know - is the $20k price a good one for the model you're looking at? I've heard the prices are up for used cars in general.

Some of the things I like about the 2010 don't seem important to you - the seats, the added power, no bladder in the tank. I'm OK with the cockpit, but miss the storage space of the G2s. You can get an aftermarket backup camera for much less $. My fingers are crossed that reliability equals its predecessors.

You like the G2, it works for you, so why spend more?

Spend more time in a G3. If you like the upgrades, can adapt to the cockpit, plan to own the car for a long time, and can afford to spend the extra $3k, go with the G3. Either way, you'll be happy.

 

In my opinion, this decision is a no-brainer. 10% more $$$ to get a 0 mile 2010 model that IS superior to the '08? Then considering the almost 30K miles on the '08 while not knowing the treatment it has received by the previous owner. Factor in the warranty peace of mind and additional safety and convenience features of the '10 - again a no-brainer. Buy an after market backup camera system. Forget about first year "kinks" that are overblown.
Rest assured you have made the very best decision on all factors. And enjoy your NEW ride for many years.

 

Rear blindspot - If you align your exterior mirrors correctly, it can mostly eliminate any blindspot. Also I personally find the base 2010's handling noticeably nicer/firmer than the 2008/2009 non-touring.

 

the 10 does not have a bladder tank

 

You need to go for the 2010. If you really don't like the new model get a better deal on a used model. Well maintained is not the same as new.

Better acceleration, stiffer unibody, better gas mileage is hard to turn down.

 

Legacy cars are the single engine that need to shift gears with power interruption. There are some that improved on the legacy design but inherit the same flaws.

Once you own a Prius, you can't go back to the legacy cars.

 

Had the same decision to make myself although I hadn't already owned a gen2. Went for the new gen3. It was the better car for me. Maybe you can hire a gen3 for a week to see how you get on?

 

I'm in the exact same boat. Was quoted $19.5k on a used certified '08 and $23k on a new 2010. I haven't decided yet. I'm waiting to get pre-approved first and see what I can get financed for. I've driven the '08 but haven't gotten behind the wheel of a 2010 yet so not sure which one I think drives better.

The problem I'm running into is I like the cockpit of the '08 better but not having the bladder and the little extra power would be nice in the 2010.

 

I feel that $20K is a little high for the 2008. If money is an issue, it could be the better choice for you if the dealer is willing to lower the price -- check out the websites and see what other 2008's are going for.

 

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I did the same (looked for preowned) and went for the new one finally.