How is your MPG this summer? Does the solar roof on the 2010 help?

[howardbc]

The temperatures are around 104-113 degrees here in Phoenix in the summer. That's pretty normal but brutal. Then the humidity gets pretty high (for us) for a while and it really feels bad. When I get in my 2008 Prius after parking it in a shopping (or whatever) area, I just have to crank the A/C all the way up for around 20-30 minutes to get it to where it's bearable, and then I turn the fan down a couple of notches several times before my next stop or when I get home. I can't ever put it on the lowest fan setting - not in these temperatures.
My MPG has plummeted to 38-40MPG. I'm sorry. I don't care. I would pass out if I didn't turn the A/C on. I do have a thick window sun shield and I crack all 4 windows. I have the special glass tinting that is supposed to be really good for heat. Is there an appreciable improvement in the heat retention for the 2010 model with the solar roof panels for owners here in the Phoenix area? I am curious. Thanks.

[tokevino]

I do not have solar roof with mine, but my first tank was spent on I-17 N half way till Flagstaff round trip + 2 days of local driving. 40 MPG, AC at FULL with outside of 119 F the weekend before.

Driving at speed limit (65/75/45/40)

The A/C is effective.

Hope this is helpful.

[howardbc]

Thank you so much for the reply, Tokevino. Today I ran several errands in the middle of the day and was almost pleased to see 41 MPG. Thanks again.

[arneely]

I picked up my 2010 Prius IV with the solar roof. I also live in Phoenix so it automatically very hot. Yes, the solar roof does work. It doesn't run the AC but runs the AC fan and vents it to the outside. So, the temp is about the same as the outside tenperature.

[howardbc]

Thanks so much, arneely! You will definitely have to come to the next local meet-up we have. We used to meet at the Pavilions (101 at Indian Bend), but it is so hot this time of year. Can you suggest a good place for a meet-up? Maybe some place that has a little shade? If you can think of some place, post it as a new subject under the local group forum and maybe we can have a meet-up. I know there are many other local Prius owners who would love to see your car. Thanks again.

[dzongrila]

Has anyone got your new Prius below MSRP in AZ? What do you guys think? Should I wait till the Clunkers program is over and then try to get it from CA? Some of the CA dealers have sold below MSRP and shared the shipping cost.

[jstack]

I'd get it local. Tempe Toyota is real good on price and has service if you ever need it. They even reprogrammed a smart key for me once for free.

The 2010 is sold out in many places. When gas doubles later this year you'll wish you already had it.

I made my 2005 into a plugin and get 200-600 mpg. I even get a $5,100 federal incentive since I have the 10 Kw lithium battery system.

[That_Prius_Car]

Hmm, does the secong gen Prius have an electric A/C? Because when I turn it on, the engine turns on.

Thanks