The Prius: Post Sept. 30 Deadline

It really depends on if people are just window shopping for a Prius, or if they actually go in to see it. The first time I checked it out, the wife and I looked at the Yaris, the Corrolla, the Prius, and the Camry Hybrid. We were really surprised how close the Prius was in size compared to the Camry Hybrid. Also, the Prius had more storage space.

The price is definitely an issue for most. The 3150 credit brings the price down and makes it less than the Camry Hybrid. Which is a big factor why I am buying one.

So, when the full credit is gone, sales are going to be fully dependant on gas prices and consumers wanting to drive a cleaner car.

Theorhetically, the combination of Toyota cranking out more Prius' and a decrease in demand should end the sales of Prius' at MSRP or above. So, people may be able to begin to negotiate prices.

 

I just purchased a 2006 Prius & learned from chatting with the dealer that he would be receiving the first of the 2007's on October 1st.

So getting a car in November you would save the depreciation between now and then, AND you would be getting a 2007 and so save on more depreciation there. Whether or not that is equal to the $ 1575.00 difference in the tax credit, I don't know. You would also start saving on gas the sooner you get the car.

 

I don't think it will change right away, I think there's a backlog of folks who will miss the deadline but will still be in the buy-it-now-before-it's-gone mindset that currently exists (because that's what you have to do if you want one now). I think there will be an appreciable change once the tax credit drops to 25% and other vehicles become more attractive price-wise. By then the Honda Civic Hybrid should have an appreciable price advantage.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Hopeful Future Prius Owner @ Sep 17 2006, 03:20 PM) [snapback]320903[/snapback]</div>

I would guess an slight increase in availability, in terms of shorter wait times.

I don't think I am typical, but without the tax credit I would probably not have bought. I have a personal issue with spending over $20K on a car and it took the tax credit and savinI'm sure there is some percent of others out there who used the tax credit as justification.

 

I don't recon much will change. The car sold like hotcakes prior to the credit, when it was only a deduction anyways.... I think that there will still be short supply and heavy demand.