Upgrade to Gen 3?

I have an '08 and am getting the itch also. I am more looking at the v though as opposed to the lift back. Maybe I'll just wait until the Gen4 lift back comes out?


iPad ? HD

 

My only other response could be possible better MPG. Other than that, you might consider a '011 or later if your budget will allow it. First year of a new generation is generally avoided in all makes and models, not just the Prius or Toyota lineup.

Best of luck to you.

Ron

 

I have a 2008, my daughter has a 2012 and my brother-in-law has a 2010. Both the 10 and the 12 have more room in them than my 08, has a bigger engine (1.8L up from 1.5L), a few more gadgets but they both get the same mileage as my 08. Mine has only 36,000 miles on it and it's paid for so although I also have the itch it's not compelling. BTW both of them (10 and 12) have had 0 problems and both love their Prius. The extra power is not a lot but it's nice to have!

 

I bought a 2009 Gen 2 for the dumbest of all reasons.
I just liked the look better.

 

^ There's a lot of second gen's, cabs in particular, around town, and I too think the look is better in some ways.

 

Honestly you are over thinking it. If you really want to do it and finances allow it then go for it. The Gen 3 is really more just an evolution of the Gen 2 - it is a bit more refined but it is not really different in any major way.

 

Beltless engine. ( Extreme Long Term Reliability Unknown)
Heat Reclamation System as opposed to a coolant Thermos.
No "Gas Bladder"....huge advantage if you live in a State that prohibits pumping your own gas.

 

More power, better or same mileage, better seats, much improved highway handling.

On the other hand, we may be only a couple of years from a new upgrade, so you may want to hold out.

 

when i had my '08, i was tempted. but there weren't enough positives to make me switch until the pip came along. however, i probably would have mad the jump this year or next, only because i don't keep cars that long, and my daughters 04 was getting long in the tooth and i passed it along to her.

 

I don't think that is a dumb reason at all.

I like both generations look. But even as a owner of a Gen 3, I would say I kind of like the Gen 2's unabashedly more unique and somewhat more geeky look.

 

3rd gen Prius gained an MG1 reduction gear * over the 2nd gen Prius (Camry and Highlander hybrids already had it) allowing it to EV up to higher speeds. I've noticed 3rd gen EVs much better at parking lot / low speeds also. I seem to recall the ICE coming on a lot more at low speeds in 2nd gen, but it's been a couple years.

* might be MG2 reduction gear, don't recall. See technical area for 'hybrid transaxle on bench' or SLT, get good look at guts of HSD.

3rd gen is more robust car and I still hold that one probably should not have too long of legs or be too tall to drive 2nd gen. But hey, whateva works.

 

Look at the EPA ratings.
There could be a pay back with the better FE.
Technology moves on.

However, have you read any of the rumors, gossip, hearsay about the Gen4?
I'd wait for the next generation.
Coming soon !!

 

I'd consider this an evolution/refinement of the hybrid drive system but it is something for the OP to consider.

As to the payback period for moving from a Gen 2 to 3 - even after adjusting for a newer car with fewer miles there will be a cost to switch. It will likely take you tens of thousands of miles and at least a few years just to just break even if you are looking at it from a fuel economy standpoint.

Honestly, I think the decision comes down to you - if you want it go for it. Best of luck.