this dealer mainly had touring Priuses ! test drove one...

May I suggest you go to the Prius web site and "build your own"? This will give you a feeling for the options and packages available in your area, based on zip code.

Each region has their own choice of packages, and only use the prices from the web site as the MSRP, not the dealer's price. Call or email other dealers when you can tell them exactly what you want. I think you can even ask for quotes from the Prius site.

I have a 2007 non-touring package 5 NL. It has everything but No Leather.

Welcome to PriusChat, pola!

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(pola @ May 2 2007, 10:58 PM) [snapback]434571[/snapback]</div>

It depends on the location. Some places in the Seattle area NEVER carry the Tour version. Other's have mostly Touring. It's partly due to have well the area is doing financially (meaning average income of area).


<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(pola @ May 2 2007, 10:58 PM) [snapback]434571[/snapback]</div>

Some of us feel that the non Touring Prii feel very wallowy and tippy and very unresponsive and ... WAY to soft. Note that I'm not somebody that races around. I just don't like feeling like my car is tipping over when I go around corners. That's a little exagerated but I drive both and Definitely (my wife too) prefered the Touring model.

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(pola @ May 2 2007, 10:58 PM) [snapback]434571[/snapback]</div>

EVERYthing that isn't standard costs extra. It is no different for any other vehicle.

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(pola @ May 2 2007, 10:58 PM) [snapback]434571[/snapback]</div>

Again, anything that isn't standard costs more. It's just happens that the nav is only available on the most expensive model.

 

Does anyone know how the handling of the Prius, both regular and touring versions, compare to the hybrid Camry? I have been considering buying a Camry but I can't get a good feel for the handling because it seems to scare the salesman. From what I can tell it seems better than my '05 Prius non-touring which has a BT plate and wider tires (205/60-15).

 

The Camry will drive better and probably track down the road easier as well.

 

Howdy pola... and WELCOME to PriusChat, a great source of accurate, real-world Prius info.

Bill's advice was right on target! It's not difficult to log on to toyota.com and 'build your toyota' to determine exactly what is included in which 'packages' and 'options.' If I recall correctly, the NAVigation system is also available in the Package 5, but snoop around to get current accurate info.

The Package 6 (which I have) is the "loaded" and the "Extra Mile Option" adds about all you can get on a Prius. I made my trade from my 2004 Prius last November when the Touring Editions were just beginning to arrive in Texas. I did my homework by checking various Texas dealers to determine what they had in stock and on the way. I also drove both a 'Standard' and 'Touring' 2007 to compare even though I had over 2 years in my 2004 Prius. I went for the Package 6 since I wanted factory-installed leather instead of port-installed. We had check the port installed and didn't care for the thin "Liquicell Comfort" pads installed under the leather at the port - felt lumpy. Also the factory leather included the leather-wrapped steering wheel. I can't comment on your San Antonio dealer's pricing, but at the time I traded there was only $270 difference in MSRP for the "Standard" versus the "Touring." I considered that an incidental amount considering the larger rims and argueably better tires. We now have 3,300 miles on our '07 Touring Prius and like the firmer suspension which seems to be a little steadier on the highway and leans less on curves and turns than our 2004 Prius did. The only modifications I have made are the "Exact Mats" (plastic like an office chair mat) and a stubby antenna for carwash convenience. I also carry a 12-volt minicompressor and professional quality analog tire gauge. All these were transferred from my 2004 Prius.

Free advice (and worth every penny it costs you :lol: ): The Owner's Manual has a great deal of useful information even though it's not easy reading. I took a highlighter to mark useful info. and made my own "Index" on blank pages in the back. PriusChat members can provide much helpful information not to be found in the manual. There's also another "Manual" written by John and available on the link below - go to "Prius Info - User Guide H" This can also be a great source for info before you get your Prius.

http://john1701a.com/

Remember, there are NO DUMB QUESTIONS... so ask away, PriusChat folks will help.