Would You Rather...?

I would go for #2... I am used to being able to stretch out to drive (I have a Ford F150 as well) and could sure use an extra inch or 2 in the leg area!!.

Compared to my truck (15 mpg), I think the mileage is super I just changed the brand of gas I used and went from about 48 mpg to 52 mpg!! I can't wait to see what I get in the summer!! B)

 

i would go for #2

 

1.

 

I would go for #2, and put the weight savings toward insulation and features. Our other car is a 2004 Avalon XLS, and the difference between the noise levels in the cars is significant. I would also enjoy a more comfortable seat; when I get out of the Prius after a 35 minute commute my back hurts and I am stiff. In contrast, I rented a Cadillac CTS on a business trip recently and after a 2 hour drive in the CTS, my back was perfectly fine. I don't know if the leather surface heated seats in the 2006 are any better than the 2005 cloth seats, but it would really enhance my Prius enjoyment to be able to customize the seat configuration to allow for individual differences in spinal configurations.

 

Humm... I dont' think its as simple as #1 or #2. I think we will have a bit of both...

I don't think the prius will be smaller, but maybe lighter and will continue to uphold and update luxury.

One of the main selling points for many is the roominess inside... both head, leg as well as for rear passengers. No one wants to drive around being uncomfortable, feeling like they are in a tin can bouncing down the road.

I can't see luxuries getting pulled... only more and lighter....

Padding on the dashboard can't weigh more than a few pounds.. they must have not deemed it necessary, because the weight would be so negligible to add it?

The engine and trans will get lighter, as well as the batteries in comparison to the power they put out. But I suspect more battery capacity will be added to offset thier lighter weight.

Aerodynamics may improve too. But there is always a fear of looking like a freak show going down the road... one appeal the honda carries as it looks more normal.... maybe thats one reason thier mileage is worse?
I've heard comments of the prius looking like everthing from a spaceship to a jet.

I admit it takes a while to get used to the unique look of the prius. Now that I am used to it... I could now tolerate even more of a spaceship look if that meant' it would improve gas mileage. Much of the other public may still need to warm up a bit.
I actually like the different look now... I think it kinda makes a statement!
"We're all about efficiency"

I definately like the luxuries.....Most luxuries don't weigh enough to talk about. I don't know what putting a sunroof would do... I know there are grooves on the roof to improve aerodynamics, and removing those have been done by some.. I don't know what impact they had from the mod.

All in all, the prius will continue efficiency on all levels. And I expect luxuries will go up with it.

 

I want a smaller, more efficient car. Doesn't look like either Toyota or Honda have any intention of making one though. Just V6 monster 4x4s and oversized saloons for the Americans

 

I tend to agree...

 

Me three :angry:

 

I want a "Toyota Insight". Categorize that response as you will :_>

 

I sure hope you are right about smaller and lighter, but don't count on it. Anyway what I want is smaller and lighter with better handling, better brakes, a bit more power, and better economy. Asking to much? I don't think so. I'd like to see a Hybrid sports car. As Richard said a Toyota Insight, only a lot better than an Insight.

 

I couldn't agree more. It angers me that these hybrid drives are being used to put more "muscle" in cars rather than more economy.

 

I'd go for #2.

 

Kind of inevitable. The same thing happened with 16-valves, fuel injection, VVT, ...

Fuel economy has remained basically constant over the years while all the new technologies are used to allow heavier, faster accelerating vehicles.

 

#2. There are plenty of us on here that have requested additional features be added. Power seats, heated seats, built in block heater, stock tint option, ect.

 

Well I sure don't see too many insights on the road?.. maybe they need to modify it to a sportier 2 seater that gets even better gas mileage?

I feel the need to transport friends, family, equipment, groceries, grandchilden etc, so I really like the prius, but I can sure see how many may see the extra room as a waste.. especially if they are single or don't have the need. They could even make a convertible version.. but that may hurt MPG.. I don't know?

 

Yep, Honda certainly needs to do something to make it more attractive than the HCH. I mean, potential buyers are faced with the choice of getting a two-door, two-seat, no frills, ultra-high mileage car or a base HCH (for a few hundred more) that has a much nicer interior, four-doors, seating for five, and a few other extras. Only the hardcore MPG folks will consider the former.

Shame, though, because there's got to be a market for a hybrid two-seater......just doesn't seem as if Honda (or any other mfr) wants to bother exploiting it at this point in time.

 

Money talks!... and it appears there is little demand for a car that has the inconvienence of a sports car for comfort, yet no frills that usually come with a sportscar, and only slightly higher MPG? People are not going to see thier soul for a few MPG when they can have it all!...
Sportcars are strong about Image.... the insight doesn't have anything but MPG...

Honda needs to also consider that most women have a strong influence in such a large family purchase.... and the insight's MPG appeal alone just don't carry the weight needed to satisfy all the needs a driver has whatever the gender!

If a car in not going to be practicle "by limiting you to two seats".. its gonna have to blow you away in the other areas to make it worth a purchase.

 

#2