I first wrote about my 2008 Prius in my old blog.  I’ve moved to this platform as it offers more features.  I felt it worthy to add a post on my Prius.  For those who didn’t read my first post here is a brief history.

In February I made a decision.  After researching the market I came to the conclusion gas prices will only be going in the upward direction.  I also came to another conclusion, with gas prices going up, the market for vehicles will also change.  My Nissan Titan I guessed would start to depreciate faster than the “Kelly Blue Book” value as American customers shift from large gas guzzling vehicles to vehicles with better fuel economy.  I also figured the demand for hybrids will increase. 

So with all that in mind I traded in my Truck.  Now you have to understand I really loved that truck!  It had tons of bells and whistles.  It gave a great ride and let’s face it – it’s always nice to have a truck at your disposal for hauling things.  But I also had to face all the money I was throwing away each week.  My commute to work is about 70 miles round trip.  That meant filling my truck on average every four-five days (depending on my weekend driving).  Filling my truck back in February was about $60.  Today that would be $80 and I’m sure before the summer is over, it would be closer to $100.

I haven’t looked back!  I LOVE my new 208 Prius!  Toyota really got things right with this car.  In 2008 Toyota offered a new “Touring Edition”.  The touring edition comes with a tuned suspension, 16” alloy wheels, vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brake system.  This enhances the steering feel and vehicle control.

Some of the cool features, the car can “listen”.  Voice activated controls allow me to control the audio system, the navigation system, the climate system.  I can ask for the nearest ATM, set the temperature to 68 degrees, and change to Sirius Satellite radio all the press of one button on my steering wheel.  I can also tell “Lola” the Nav lady, to take me home!  I can make and receive calls via Bluetooth connection to my cell phone.  The car has everything, every toy!  From leather seats, power everything, and well engineered location of controls.  The central LCD display controls all systems through a touch screen.  The UI (user interface) is well designed.  The Nav system will even dial a restaurant located on the map!

What a sound system!  My Prius has a JBL AM/FM 6-disk in-dash CD changer with nine speakers in seven locations, auxiliary audio jack (iPod), and Sirius Satellite radio.

Living in New England where the climate is often damp, the dual separate defrost system for front and rear come in handy along with the heated side mirrors. Included: power side mirrors, door locks and windows. With both rear seats folded down, the rear compartment offers surprising storage capabilities. It reminds me of my first Saab 900 where the Swedes provided a no-lip rear for a real “flat” surface maximizing storage. Saab used to call it a station wagon without a station wagon.

There are two options not offered:  a sunroof and heated front seats.  The latter I could do without but a sunroof would be nice.

Current Average Mileage: 52.6 MPG !!!!