So, You Want to Purchase a Toyota Prius?

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, you’re well aware of the buzz that Toyota has generated with its introduction of the hybrid-electric Toyota Prius. With the onslaught of gas price increases over the last few months, it seems as though the Toyota Prius may be the answer to our prayers. Or is it?

Is the Prius All It’s Cracked Up to Be?

Some will undoubtedly argue in its favor until they’re red in the face, but the Prius may not quite be the cure-all, end-all sent down from the heavens to save us from the grips of foreign oil and outrageously high gas prices. It actually has a number of quirks and known issues.

Please keep in mind that I have not yet had a chance to drive & evaluate a Prius for myself, so I cannot speak to the validity of the claims made.

Issue # 1: Battery Replacement
It’s still largely unknown and there is quite a bit of controversy concerning just how many miles you’ll be able to crank out of the Ni-MH Toyota Prius battery – most estimates are between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. The battery is covered by an 8-year warranty and will cost approximately $4,000 to replace although Toyota claims the cost will be whittled down, closer to $1,000 by the time you’ll actually need a new one. This is obviously something you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re looking to purchase a used Prius.

Issue # 2: Gas Mileage
60 mpg? 30 mpg? What’s the actual number? According to the Toyota Prius website, the Prius gets a combined 46 mpg. Obviously this number will vary depending on your driving habits, but judging by comments posted by hundreds of Prius owners, 46 mpg is at the high-end and is rarely achievable. Your mileage, both literally and figuratively, may vary.

Issue # 3: Murphy’s Law
Murphy’s Law states: if something can go wrong, it will. Given the amount of technology (two batteries, two motors, onboard computer) integrated in the latest generation Prius, the chance of a component failure is exponentially increased.

Alternatives to the Toyota Prius

Unless you have your heart 100% set on purchasing a Prius, you may want to consider these fuel-efficient cars as well:

Mazda3
I actually purchased a brand new 2005 Mazda3 and after putting over 37,000 miles on it in a little over three years, I can confidently give it a thumbs up. It handles extremely well in normal driving conditions, gets a combined 27mpg, and didn’t break the bank at approximately $22,000 for an optioned-out model. I had my first issue with it last December when my gas light wouldn’t turn off, but after spending about 45 minutes at the dealership, they diagnosed the problem (air leak from the gas cap), fixed it, and I was on my way.

Mini Cooper
The Mini Cooper is one of those hit or miss vehicles that you either love or hate. I personally do not care for them, however that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to like. For around $20,000, you’ll get a car that gets approximately 30 mpg, zips in between gas guzzlers with ease, and holds its resale value fairly well.

Honda Civic
Honda’s stalwart coupe & sedan is the epitome of reliability. I’ve never owned a Civic, but I’ve known a number of friends who’ve driven them and I’ve never heard a single complaint. Its combined 26 mpg may pale in comparison to that of the Prius, but base model Honda Civics start at only $15,000 – a full $6,500 less than the Prius.

Toyota Corolla
Toyota’s most popular car, the Toyota Corolla continues to be a solid choice for people looking to purchase a reasonably-priced, fuel-efficient car. Sure it’s bland, but at this price point, you really shouldn’t be expecting much in terms of style.

My Thoughts

Up until a couple of months ago, I would have rather been forced to sit through another showing of the Broadway musical “Cats” (excruciatingly terrible if you’re wondering) than consider the purchase of a Prius. To me, the Prius looked like something you’d find on the set of a bad science fiction movie and the last thing I’d ever do is get behind the wheel of such a monstrosity. Then came $4/gallon gas. All of a sudden, science fiction movies aren’t looking so bad and the Prius is looking pretty darn good.

If I was in the market for a new car, the Prius would definitely be on my short list, despite the issues mentioned above. I feel that it’s reasonably priced and it’s a known fact that Toyota makes some of the most reliable, longest-lasting cars in the world. I’m not head over heels in love with the design of the Prius, but I’d be willing to sacrifice aesthetics to achieve nearly a 70% increase in fuel economy.

Your Thoughts

Are you a prospective Toyota Prius owner, enthusiast, or malcontent? What do you think – love it or hate it? Why? Let’s hear your thoughts!