In a bit of a quandary for a 2014 pip

That really up to you. Since the prime is the first year new generation, so it will probably have some problems (bugs) while the 2014 is couple years older from the PiP and probably have fixed their bugs. Prime will have 3 entry level so you might not buy the lowest entry but that is personal preference. 2014 PiP, you have no choice. Prime will start at $27,100, so it is a higher tax and it might be like $900+ difference on tax.

 

I agree. It's really up to you. I like both styles, but a "new" car is always more fun. My 2015 has been all I ever wanted in a Prius and more.

 

If the choice was and $18.4k PiP or a Prime. Get the Prime. But it's not either or. I think that PiP is overpriced. I'd personally get a 2012 PiP. Oh wait, I do have one. The choice should be a $12k PiP with 50k miles or a double the price Prime. Then you choose the PiP.

 

Yup, tough choice. I got my 2014 PIP in May and its been great. Its a Base, but the dealer added leather to sweeten the deal. Great so far, and intend to keep it for a long time. The Prime is tempting, but not now that I already have the PIP. Again, tough call right now.

 

It sounds like the 2014 is overpriced. I think you should be able to find a better priced PiP if you wanted to go the used route.

Or, if you're okay spending more money, you could go for the Prime (if 4 seats suits your usage), but keep in mind you'll pay full price on the car initially, then get back the California rebate in a few months, and the federal tax credit when you submit your taxes for the current year (assuming you qualify for the full amount), so you won't get back the money for some time.

 

I would say 2 things:

(1) used PiP has more cargo space and is probably my choice...yes I would hope for a little better price but I like the idea of any safety improved updates on the 2014/2015, and I get no state rebates.

(2) if I was in CA keep in mind the PiP may only get green stickers thru 2018, as interest groups are wanting to extend the HOV end dates, but they also want to nix PiP for free HOV due to too small battery. But who knows? as the law has not been argued/voted yet.

PS- Re: HOV - you can read Plug_in America policy statement, but I just paraphrased it above.

 

welcome! you need to do more research. on top of all of the above, prime is improved in a million ways over pip. the 2 biggest drawbacks in my opinion, as mentioned above, smaller hatch and only 4 seats. all the best with your decision!

 

Now you can enjoy your '13 PIP for a few years...and by then the Prime will be available on the used market. Best of both worlds! I'd also wager that Toyota will do something mid-cycle to fix the '5th seat 'problem'.

It will be interesting to see how the Prime will be priced when they start entering the used market. In my opinion the current PIPs are priced amazingly low, and are a fantastic value!