Steering issues with Prius - killed deal for me.

Actually, the adjustable steering wheel is on all the series: II, III, IV, V.

 

Frankly, from the several Prius automobiles I've driven, I think that the suspension is about right. I like a firm suspension (compared to the typical American made cars which usually have a soft as a marshmallow suspension). A firm suspension tells the driver more about the actual road conditions and handles a lot better.

Keith

 

I agree. My 97 Camry was too spungy, yuck. Nice smooth ride though.

 

The problem with the steering in the Prius is that my arms have gotten weak!! I thought I was driving a tank when I drove my Sport Trac for a brief while after I bought my original 2005. I love turning with a couple fingers on the wheel and completing turns in very little space.

 

Yeah, suspension tuning is a trade-off. Personally, I've found my Gen III to be firmer (some may say 'bumpier') than my parents' Gen II, but that's the way I prefer it. Compared to my previous ride (an RSX type S) it is cush. I guess you can have it both ways if you buy a $100k BMW 7-series or something with an adjustable suspension, but as a member of the great unwashed, no real complaints here. I knew what I was getting into.

I do agree with the OP in wishing that the wheel telescoped out just a bit more. But I can live with it. I'm even kind of learning to like the oval shape.

 

I wished the wheel telescopes more but I understand that as a lower price car, they had to cut something. If everything is as good as a Lexus, then the car would be called the IS250H or RX450H and would be more expensive.

The high pressure tires are needed for economy/mileage and it is all downhill from there. Fat grippy tires would do a lot for handling but then the Prius would not be the mileage king.

 

I didn't think the 35/33 psi in the label is that high, but the 40 psi that mine had on delivery would make it too stiff for some folks. That is why OP should have at least checked tire pressure.