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Standard or Touring

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Pope, May 17, 2008.

  1. Pope

    Pope New Member

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    I am about to make a purchase and would like some information from owners. Primarily, I am concerned with MPG. Does the fact the touring edition has wider wheels make a difference in the MPG? Also, the touring package has stiffer handling. However, the dealer did not have two I could compare. Has anyone driven both and seen differences in the MPG and handling? What other ins and outs can you guys offer? It seems this is a good place for information and an active forum. Thanks in advance for the input.
     
    #1 Pope, May 17, 2008
  2. stream

    stream Senior Member

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    I can't speak to MPG since I don't own a Prius yet, but the touring suspension is noticeably more "refined" than the base model.

    Much less body roll and a less mushy ride. On turns, and changing lanes, the base model has noticeably more roll and wobble.
     
    #2 stream, May 17, 2008
  3. BT Tech

    BT Tech New Member

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    I don't think that there is a significant difference in fuel economy comparing the base model to the touring. Having said that, common sense dictates that a smaller narrower tire will have less rolling resistance and result in slightly higher FE.

    I have driven many of the base model as well as the touring. IMO, the touring option is money well spent as the car has a better "feel" to with a less "floaty" feeling of the suspension compared to the base. The ride quality is slightly more harsh so it depends on what you prefer.

    If you like a nice cushy ride and want the max FE you can get, I would recommend the base model. If you favor a bit more control handling wise and don't mind the slightly rougher ride I would go for the touring.

    Hope this helps....


     
    #3 BT Tech, May 17, 2008
  4. canesfan

    canesfan Culture shocked...

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    I can't speak to the MPG issue, but I doubt there's a significant difference. I have a Touring and I am having a blast driving it! I had a Chrysler 300C and my Prius handles better and has a better ride.
     
    #4 canesfan, May 17, 2008
  5. Boo

    Boo Boola Boola Member

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    #5 Boo, May 18, 2008
  6. Neicy

    Neicy Member

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    Love my touring. MPG difference is minimal. Definitely worth it if you can get one.
     
    #6 Neicy, May 18, 2008
  7. lefat1

    lefat1 Fat Member

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    agreed 100%, i'd wait til the 09's come out tho as there are few to be had now and dealers are gouging on those coming in..
     
    #7 lefat1, May 18, 2008
  8. Pope

    Pope New Member

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    So you believe I could get a better deal on an 08 in a few months? They seem to be very few around as is. Thanks for all the input.
     
    #8 Pope, May 18, 2008
  9. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    No, they're suggesting that you'll get a better deal on an *'09* in a few months. The '08s are pretty much gone and the '09s aren't here yet. On The Other Hand gas may well be more expensive in a few months and the '09s might be in even greater demand.
     
    #9 richard schumacher, May 18, 2008
  10. KayakerNC

    KayakerNC Member

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    As gas goes up in price, demand will climb in lock-step.
    As the dollar falls against other currencies, the MSRP will also have to climb.
    Buy now. Those factors will keep the value of your purchased Prius high. Your trade-in (if any) will NEVER be worth more.
     
    #10 KayakerNC, May 18, 2008
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