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New member, haven't yet pulled the trigger...

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by der_ingenieur, Jun 14, 2009.

  1. der_ingenieur

    der_ingenieur New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 14, 2009
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    Location:
    Chicago/Western Suburbs
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    Hello to everone on this wonderful board. I've been reading a lot in this forum lately, as I am in the process of buying a new car. Over the past x years, always driven Ford Explorer. Liked the truck a lot, and would possibly buy another one. However, I don't actually need another big car (as my wife has a three row SUV, for hauling kids, shopping, going to IKEA, ...).

    Bottom line is, I will probably go for something different this time. The Prius is currently on top of my list, especially since I test drove a 2010 Prius IV. Impressed me a lot more than the 2009 Touring I tried before.
    However, the dealers are pretty firm with regards to pricing, and financing options aren't great either. Therefore, the Subaru Forester (2009 or 2010) is high on the list as well. Could buy for less $ and with lower financing rates. Damn, I wish they came out with 0% for July (I know, it's probably not going to happen...).
    I need the car by mid to end of July. As there are no incentives for the 2010, no rush on my side (even though the dealer in Oak Brook call once or twice a week).

    In the running is a Prius IV (a little too expensive), or a Prius III. I like silver, blue, grey metallic (in that sequence).

    What is the opinion regarding the rear view camera? Almost all the 2009 had it, and now none of the versions unless factory Nav, correct?? Would you guys rather get a III and add the Nav, or get a IV and no Nav??

    The thing that makes the decision kind of difficult are the heated seats. I love that option and it's cold here in winter in Chicago.

    Chicago winter is the one reason that makes me uneasy with regards to the Prius. The Forester would be a more competent vehicle under those conditions.

    Anyway, sorry for the long first post.

    Best,

    K
     
    #1 der_ingenieur, Jun 14, 2009
  2. F8L

    F8L Protecting Habitat & AG Lands

    Joined:
    Aug 14, 2006
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    Location:
    Grass Valley, CA.
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    Other Non-Hybrid
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    There are more than a few members here from Chicago and they don't seem to have many problems with winter driving. Maybe a few of them will chime in for ya. :)
     
    #2 F8L, Jun 14, 2009
  3. der_ingenieur

    der_ingenieur New Member

    Joined:
    Jun 14, 2009
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    Location:
    Chicago/Western Suburbs
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    That would be fantastic, looking forward to that feedback.
     
    #3 der_ingenieur, Jun 14, 2009
  4. donee

    donee New Member

    Joined:
    Aug 15, 2005
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    Location:
    Chicagoland
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Hi ingener..,

    Remember, a Chicago winter, and specifically a West Suburban winter comes with all sorts of snow-plows and salt applications. So, its not like driving around in rural Wisconsin, or Ice covered roads in Central Illinois. The Forrester is a bit overkill, consequently. Even so, the pedal on the Prius is sensitive, and PIO (Pilot Induced Oscillation, or in this case traction control power cut triggering) in snow is a problem. Learning to not rely on pedal pessure through winter boots is a big part of it. Because the pedal pushes back so softly, that one can try to overaccelleate for the conditions easily. Eventually, you just learn about how far to press, without relying on feeling the pedal.

    Even if you cannot get the hang of this, there are Nokian winter tires (I have Michelin Hydroedges) favored by Minnesotans and Canadians that will help a bunch.

    The Prius has low ground clearance. So, do not expect to be able to drive through 6 inches of packed snow, or 10 inches of powder. The car will high center, and the pressure between the wheels and the road will be lost.

    So far, I have had no issues driving my car in Chicagoland winters. In one storm I left work, and due to slow traffic, the snow never blew off the car. I got home with 4 inches of sticky snow piled up on the car, after it was cleared at the start of the trip.
     
    #4 donee, Jun 14, 2009
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