Toyota Prius Shopping: Ready to deal?
In the market for a Prius?If you've been thinking about buying a Toyota Prius, then you're probably pretty excited that the new 2010 Prius will soon hit US dealerships.
Just don't get too excited. Earlier this week, my dealer told me he was only expecting 5 new Prius hybrids for first month of sale. Fortunately, he also told me there would be no markups on the new Prius - we'll see how long that lasts.
But what if you need a car now, or you just want a great deal?
Well, there are some deals on the current Prius. Already Toyota has slashed Prius prices by as much as a few thousand, and they are offering great financing options. Moreover, I came away with an obvious impression that dealers are willing to haggle Prius pricing down at least another grand, maybe even two.
However, "we're not going to give them away" my dealer confirmed.
It seems to me Toyota knows full well that there will be a 2010 Prius shortage for several months, yet showrooms will probably be full of new Prius gawkers. So Toyota dealers might be happy to have a few Prii on the lot to push these buyers towards. Thus, I don't anticipate a second generation Prius fire sale any time soon, if ever, especially not in hot hybrid markets.
Nonetheless, if you're heading out to find a deal on a Prius this weekend, don't be afraid to make a low ball offer on a second generation Prius. You might get lucky, especially if this weekend is much slower than normal.
Labels: toyota prius
posted by Dahcredyns at
8:26 AM
7 Comments:
I test drove 09 Prius and the only issue I had was its flat panel monitor/screen. I was just not clearly visible to the driver on a sunny day(washed out). The salesman switched seats with me and meekly agreed it was 'hard to see'.
If one MUST get a new hybrid right now, I agree 09 is ok....but I would also test Honda Insight as well(its more fun but less mpg).
If one COULD wait for several months....I would def wait for 2010 Prius model or several other hybrids that are suppose to be coming out late summer.
Mid 2010 is the MAGICAL year that will have some major suprises and exicting models from many manufacturers - for me its worth the wait as for the first time there will be at least 4 very hot hybrids and most importantly, there will be competition pricing:)
I Love my prius and helped make a rap video about it. Click my name to check it out!
Steve -
I watched that video. I know its all in fun, but Prius-haters will like your video more than Prius fans. So how are your proving you Prius love?
I can't help but wonder if you really drive a Prius, or if you are just seeking a link?
I drive a hybrid because I think all the deaths caused by America's oil dependence are despicable.
It's ironic how funny it is to make fun of treehugging Prius drivers - which are an easy target - but how cool horsepower and size are despite the tremendous death and destruction caused by the oil dependency created by these 15 mpg vehicles.
Next time maybe you can use my I hate gas guzzlers piece for some inspiration.
Anyone know which are the 4 hot hybrids coming in mid-2010 that anon wrote about?
I'm not sure. Hyundai's first hybrid, for instance, will launch then, but without knowing the pricing, how can we assume it will be hot?
In 2010 I think the Prius and the Insight will still be the top sellers.
Anyone see any information on the Li-ion battery for the Prius that Toyota has been working on? My searches revealed old news, lots of conjecture and no facts. I read something that Toyota was cautious as the Li ion battery can be dangerous??? Hmmmm. Any thoughts?
I'm close to getting a new 2010 but don't want to be 'stuck' with old tech in a new car just when the better model comes out!
Just a few weeks ago, Toyota claimed that it could put lithium in the new Prius, but that it would have to increase the price of the Prius. Unfortunately, the increase in fuel efficiency was not enough to offset the increased price. Thus, Toyota is sticking with NiMH in the Prius for several more years.
The plug-in Prius, and probably at least one Lexus model, will soon utilize lithium. However, these vehicles will have a price premium and will only be available in small productions for several years after launch.
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