Something's been worrying me...

Yup, the economy hasn't hit bottom -yet-. Now there -could- be a shortage of 2010s due to reduced production. In that case they could be sold above list.

It you're expecting to specify color and package you pretty much have to pre-order. You -could- luck out though.

You may also want to look further, perhaps up the east coast to the Boston area, for the car you want. That would expand your choices if you do decide to get one.

 

I thought toyota said that they're going to continue to manufacture 2009 Prius models for sale even though the 2010 will be available. So this shouldn't be a problem.

 

Hmmm....I really more than guess about the availability of '09 Prius after the release of the '10s, but I do have to ask why you'd want to get one in Florida if you've got the ability to get it elsewhere? I mean heck, I live in deep south Florida and almost wound up going out of state to make my purchase to avoid SET. Remember, distributerships aren't "Burger King", you'll rarely get it "your way".

If you really need to wait until July to make the trade, you might want to think about doing in Conneticut.

Just a thought.....

 

Toyota U.S. has stated that they have no intention of doing this.

Tom

 

At what month will a 2010 prius be release?

 

Late May/Early June. I'd count on Late May.

 

I'm not certain I understand your concern. If you intend to buy a 2009, why not make the purchase? Incentives from Toyota are in place (a rarity for the Prius) and stock is high at your local dealers -- the price should be right. For $27,500 you'll get a fully-loaded Touring #6. You won't get a fully-loaded 2010 for that price -- and you may have a hard time finding a 2010.

If you want the 2010 features, then just join the line of over-anxious Prius nuts like many of us here. If you want a great car at a great price, the 2009 right now is a good way to go.

Will prices drop further? Possibly (maybe probably). Will 2009 inventory increase? Unlikely.

If you have to have the best deal in the world, then link up with a couple of dealers and let them know the price you'd pay for your choice car. If they are willing to go down to that price now, then buy. If they won't, but they have inventory, call them back every week to see how things stand. At some point, a salesman will say "I know who'll buy a car today, and I know the price -- I think I'll call today!"

 

Your 10-year-old Camry is only going to decrease in trade value as time goes by.

 

Since money seems to be an issue, I strongly suggest you do NOT trade in. Most dealers will give you very little and you anywhere from a little better to a LOT better w/o that much effort.

Yes, it's a pain in the butt to sell a car. I've done it twice, but I did WAY better than what the dealer would give. However, I'm not sure about whether your states let you reduce the amount of sales tax you pay by trading in. In California, you cannot but in Washington state, IIRC you can.

With this horrible economy, I think there will be some 09 Priuses left but yes, pickings might be slim. You might not get the package and color you want.

Back to the money issue, are you REALLY set on the Prius? How about the Insight when we find out the price? What about non-Toyota hybrids esp. if you don't need the hatchback design or as good mileage? See New Energy Tax Credit for Hybrids for tax credit amounts. Honda and Toyota/Lexus hybrid tax credits are at $0.

(My mom owns a leftover 07 Altima Hybrid she bought in Feb 08. CT happens to be a state where you can buy a NAH.)