honda civic vs. toyota prius
Created September 9, 2005, at 12:30 pm by Anonymous
Have anyone done research comparing the civic and the prius? Which is he better vehicle?
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That depends. I looked into this three years ago and decided the Honda Civic Hybrid filled my needs/wants better than the Prius. (Plus I wouldn't have to wait for months - I walked in to the dealer and drove out.)
My (admittedly overly simplistic) opinion was that the Honda Civic Hybrid seemed to be optimized for highway driving and the Prius seemed to be optimized for city driving; that the Honda is mechanically simpler than the Prius; and it simply looks better (i.e., more like a normal car).
My car now has 82,000 miles on it and has not had one problem. My wife liked mine so much we bought her one too.
Your mileage may vary.
I bought an '05 HCH, for the reasons Paul so well stated.
Although the EPA mileage numbers are higher on the Prius, the greenhybrid.com mileage database suggests that real-world mileage of the HCH and Prius is about the same.
I think they're both good cars, so which is the "better" car will likely be subjective call that only you can make based on whatever criteria are most important to you.
If your looking to buy I think next month the 2006 Civic hybrid comes out with new design engine with improved mileage and horsepower. And if you can wait till jan. 1, 2006 the tax incentives also are better on either car. I drive a 2005 HCH am satisfied. However I might have bought Prius if the chance purchase one occured The shortest wait time on the least desired model and color was 3-4 months.
i work with a guy who has a prius, i have a HCH - and we get similar mileage. the prius being maybe 2 or 3 MPG higher. for our driving style TODAY.
i suspect the HCH is slightly cheaper, and slightly more available.
~ and i never really liked the prius "styling".
see ya
I have a civic - for the same reasons Paul mentioned. And I love it (more each day as the price of gas soars here in VA).
If cost is an issue, i.e., tradeoff in cost of car vs. gas savings, the availability of the civic is a factor (at least the 2005s). I was able to even cut a deal on mine - I paid about $1000 under sticker, which you cannot do with any other hybrid that I know of.
I'm leaning twards the Prius, but I'm with you on the style point, the needs to improve it's style.
But in support of the Prius, I'm surprised that the HCH and the Prius appear in parity. Consumer reports recently ran a study and found the Prius about 20% more fuel efficent than the Civic.
deep link:
http://www.consumerreports.org/main/content/display_report.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=772795&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=389451&CONTENT%3C%3Ecnt_id=478927&bmUID=1126756247516
Consumer Reports
Cars
New Cars
"Fuel Economy & MPG"
-Dan
I loved my old all-gas Honda Civic, but I bought a Prius when I went hybrid.
Why? Mostly space. It truly rivals a small SUV for hauling the kind of junk we all occasionally do. It was nice to be able to help a friend move a 42" wide-screen TV, and I can go to the nursery and bring home bales of hay or bags of peat moss or whatever with no problem. Even an 80-gallon rain barrel! You just flip the rear seats down, pop out the bar that stretches across behind them, and there you are.
Plus the options on Prius (which do make it more expensive) like airbags everywhere, vehicle stability control, and hands-free phone and GPS were not available for the Civic.
Yes the Prius does have a little more room then the '06 Civic's, but the "airbags everywhere" are standard on the '06 Civic, and you can get a voice responce Navigation option if you want.
I have an '06 HCH on order.
Toyota use to say they were the only FULL hybrid on the market. That has changed for 06. The HCH is now a full hybrid and has voice activated navigation available. Considering the 3k price difference, I believe the HCH is the better deal.
The MSRP's for the 2006 HCH is $21,850 and for the 2005 Prius is $21,860 (It may go up a couple of hundred or two for the 2006), so there isn't a $3K difference. I compared both and chose a Prius for the size difference, it is simply just much more versatile in what you can haul, and because of the performance.
I don't think there are really any obvious ways in which one is better than the other. It all depends on what you like and are looking for in a car.
I was wondering, does the voice navigation on the HCH, does it do voice commands for other functions (like audio or a/c), like the Prius does or is it just for the navigation? In addition, there are some features, like Smart Entry Smart Start (it is really great), Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Bluetooth, Tire Air Pressure Sensor, and HID headlights, which do make the Prius more expensive. There are also some things you might find standard on the HCH that aren't on the Prius. It just goes back to what is important to you.
In terms of economy, I think the Prius has a higher ceiling in it's capability (i.e. the recent 110mpg marathon), but for most people, the mpg numbers will be similar. The common moniker that the HCH is better for highway and the Prius is better for city is a n erroneous oversimplification.
I would suggest to anyone trying to decide between the two to test drive both of them to compare them. Or try to get both on an extended test drive to see what they are like.
I have a 2003 HCH and I'm leaning hard toward getting a Prius (and passing the HCH to my son). For me, the fold-down seats and carrying space are a big factor. But the other important issue (until tonight?) was the broiling Arizona heat. The HCH uses the gas engine to run A/C, and I lose about 8 mpg on a hot day. I read somewhere that the Prius runs the A/C with the electrical system. Then tonight a Toyota salesman told me that's not correct, though what he literally said was that the gas engine on the Prius has to be running when A/C is on, and that gas mileage suffers about 10 mpg loss. Now, I know salesmen are unreliable sources (they lie or make something up), but this one said he'd just been to a seminar where it was discussed. I'd like to get another opinion... anyone know? (And I heard the HCH 2006 has switched the A/C to the electrical system. Kudos to Honda for that.)
The fold-down rear seats and carrying space mentioned in the previous post are definitly something to consider, however the way I see it, you can leave the seats up and seat 4, but only have luggage space for 2 people, OR you can fold the seats down, have seating for 2 and enough luggage space for 4 !!
On the A/C question, the '06 Honda runs off either the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) or an electric motor. Here is a link to a good 9 minute Video that shows the new Honda VTEC engine, and also talks about the dual mode A/C compressor
http://world.honda.com/HDTV/news/2005-4050705b/index.html
I was on the fence between Prius and Honda Civic for a long time as both have advantages and disdvantages. The final straw for our family (wife and son) was the very obstructed view thru the rear view mirror. The Prius has a slanted back window and then a nearly vertical "window". There is a divider between the two and it is smack dab in the middle of your line of site looking in the rear view mirror. Very annoying and personally I think a safty hazard. I also liked the side curtin airbags that are standard on the Honda. And one final thing was the controls on the Honda were more "normal" then the Prius. A power button and joystick shifter, while functional, are just a little odder then I liked!
Lee,
It probably doesn't matter whether you use a Prius or an HCH - running the A/C is going to significantly impact your gas mileage simply because your gasoline is being used to cool the car, not move it along. This is a simple fact of physics and the more efficient the car is at driving (high MPG), the more the effect of running the A/C will appear to have*. It doesn't matter much whether the A/C is electric or mechanical. This is just something that we'll have to get used to: As we increase our efficiency in one area, places we normally didn't notice before, will seem worse. Assuming no gasoline was consumed to move the car, all the gasoline you put into the car would only be used to cool it.
What electric A/C will provide you with, however, is the ability of the car to shut off the gasoline engine when you stop without losing the A/C as one does in the HCH today. I don't know about the Prius but the Highlander Hybrid has the electric A/C.
What will improve the A/C performance is a more efficient A/C system. Presumably, heat pump based systems as the Highlander Hybrid has will be more efficient than normal A/C although I haven't seen any hard evidence to prove this.
* Algebra can show that if you see an 8 mpg drop from your normal mpg (assuming normally you got 40 mpg at 60 mph) you're A/C is burning about 0.375 gph (gallons per hour). From this we can see that this same air conditioner will only take about 0.5 mpg for 10 mpg vehicle. For vehicles that get 20, 30, 60, and 100 mpg vehicle, you'll see 2.2, 4.7, 16, and 38 mpg drops respectively caused when you run the A/C. If you go entirely on the mpg hit that the A/C gets, you might as well buy a Hummer. Otherwise, you'll have to recognize the cost of airconditioning.
I test drove an '05 Prius before deciding on the Civic and after taking a test drive we stopped in front of the dealer while the salesman pointed out the display, etc. and the AC was running, but not the ICE, so it must have an electric motor driven compressor or dual mode, like the '06 Civic
I live in Canada and am unsure if colder temperatures (igloos ya know) have an impact on fuel efficiency?
No matter which one you choose, if you choose hybrid it's a good thing.
I have chosen the Toyota path on Prius and Highlander. The on button and shift that Larry finds odd is exactly that. Odd.
Change is difficult. I find the start function of the Highlander odd. I turn the key to the so called start position and nothing happens. No grinding of the starter and whir of the engine. Nothing. Now the start button of the Prius makes sense to me. I push the button to turn on the computer. The boot up time is significantly shorter that that of my PC but the function is the same.
As for the shifter, well it really isn't. It's a mode select. Coming from the industrial environment, that makes sense to me too. Select a mode and you are ready to go. My understanding is that the Honda lever actually does shift a transmission, so it is infact a shift lever.
Finally, the Toyota drive system is different. It is a farily radical departure from the automobile we are familiar with. It is not a transmission and therefore does not have all the mechanical parts of a transmission. It has an industrial style gearbox with sun and star gears that give either or both power systems access to drive the vehicle.
Oh yea and the gas pedal really isn't. It might more accurately be described as the accelerator. So change may be viewed as either good or bad but it is most definitely different.
Anybody actually bought a 2006 hch yet?
I'm not sure they've been released yet. The dates from dealers keep getting later and later.
Looks vs. Quirks
Prius will give you the goodies of more interior room, cargo room, electronic bells and whistles (Bluetooth phone, rear camera, 6 disc in dash changer, smart key) more cup holders... while the civic offers a .6 second faster accel from 0-60, normal looks (the civic hybrid isn't nearly as cool looking as the civic coupe) and a cool blueish dash. Other than that, the cars are the same. Depending on where you live, the tax incentives make the cars similar in price... fully loaded (minus the leather) the Prius is about $2500 more. I think I'm going for a 2005 Prius (If I can get one) because it still has a cassette player and I have a ton of cassettes! That and the fact that I've ordered some extra parts to turn the Nav into a video game screen.
I had mentioned earlier that there was a $3k price difference. I was referring to a fully load civic vs. a fully loaded prius (both with navigation). The extras that come with the $3k in my opinion aren't worth the added cost.
I also did not like the blind spot on the Prius.
I have also heard that the Prius uses special tires that only the dealership can get. So if you get a blowout or any tire damage, you can expect to pay a premium to replace it.
As far as the civic goes, the airbags are standard, it now has turn signals on the mirrors, cool dash board, a real shifting CVT transmission, its quicker and it blends in with other civics.
Referring to the $3k price difference, just because you don't believe an option is worth the cost doesn't mean that you can then just write it off. Compare apples to apples, not apples to oranges. I mean, why not just compared a loaded Prius to a HCH without Nav to see a $5k price difference? To some, the extra options are worth the cost.
The Prius uses Goodyear Integrity tires. I haven't had to replace any, but it is a tire that can be gotten at other places besides a dealer. No premium is necessary.
I actually like the back window of the Prius. The bar across the bottom blocks out many of the headlights from taller vehicles and having the bottom portion allows me to see small things (hydrants, tricycles, small kids, etc) that might be behind me.
I like the unique styling of the Prius and like the fact that it doesn't look like any other car. The 2006 Civics have improved their looks, but no way would I have wanted an 04 or 05 Civic. Some people like a car that is different (for instance: I want to paint my car Oklahoma State University orange with some Pistol Petes and get a license plate saying Poke Pri). I just have to convince my wife!
To each his own though. The Prius isn't for eveyone, as the HCH isn't for everyone. The important thing is people can choose between their own personal needs and preferences.
Now that we have a baby, we will need to sell my my 2000 Honda Insight for either a Prius or HCH. I can't decide which but I know it will hurt to see the significantly lower mpg. Any suggestions from the family of hybrid owners? Consider the ease of removing strollers, packing baby stuff and room in the back seat for a baby car seat strapped in the middle.......Thanks...BTW, any idea on the asking price for my Insight? It's in good condition w/ minor scrapes and scratches.....
I have a Prius Pkg 6 in silver and I believe you will have more ease packing and unpacking in the prius from earlier post. 1-888-661-1171 you can call or email me . I am in Jackson Tennessee. It list for $27,066.
Does anyone have any information on the cost of repairs on either the Prius or the Honda Civic Hybrid?
I'm told by a Toyota employee that battery repair requires a special Toyota facility and to confirm one is available in the city I live in prior to purchasing a Prius. He mentioned something about high temperatures being required for the intial set up of the battery. Only technicians with special training are allowed to make repairs to the electrical portion of the vehicle.
Has anyone else heard this and if so do you have any additional details?
Steve, Toyota can't make Priuses as fast as people want to buy them, so they're passing out all kinds of bogus information trying to discourage sales.
Congratulations Gail on your new baby and for not thinking that being a parent means needing an SUV!
No advice on which is better, though I love my HCH, and I think a stroller would fit in the trunk.
I am considering an hch and a hybrid highlander. On the Honda only the battery has an extended warranty. With Toyota, they extend the warranty on the whole hybrid system. Any comments?
10 Reasons why Prius is far better than the Honda.
Consider this:
1) The Honda Civic Hybrid (HCH) cannot power the power steering with the battery alone.
2) The HCH cannot operate the A/C system with battery alone.
3) The Prius has 295 ft-lbs. @ 0 rpm vs. the 76 ft-lbs. @ 0 rpm on the HCH
4) Prius is a Dual Overhead Cam engine with 16 valves vs. Honda's Single Overhead Cam engine and 8 valves ( the more valves the more economy and the better your engine will breathe)
5) The Horse power in the Electric motor on the Prius is 67 Hp. On the Honda it is a mere 20Hp.
6) The prius has a lot more cargo capacity. 16.1 cu./ft. vs the HCH 10.4 cu./ft.
7) Prius is the best selling Hybrid, ever! (Guiness world of records).
8) Prius was Car of the year in 2004. HCH has never been car of the year.
9) You can get 714 miles to the gallon on the city with a Prius. With a HCH you can only get 615. (99 miles of difference)
10) Toyota stock as of 01/31/06 is $103.49. Honda is a mere $28.52
So, if you are trying to get a TRUE hybrid, consider Prius. Don't let me talk you out of buying a HCH, but when you resale the HCH you will suffer.
Oh, by the way, the HCH is not a true Hybrid like the Prius!!!!
Visit my page at www.ortiztoyota.homestead.com
Thank you!
I would hope anyone reading this tread would realize a posting by a Toyota dealer, Mr. Ortiz, is going to be slightly biased !!
If bias alone is not enough to discount Mr. Ortiz, lets throw in some lies...Mr. Ortiz says "HCH has never been car of the year" - WRONG the '06 HCH is the 2006 Motor Trend Car of the Year and the 2006 North American Car of the Year. http://automobiles.honda.com/models/awards.asp?ModelName=Civic+Sedan&Num=1
Mr. Ortiz says "You can get 714 miles to the gallon on the city with a Prius" WOW- I would like to see this, as it is more then 11x what the EPA claims !! For "real-world" milage (what your fellow drivers are getting) check out one of the following. The true is the HCH and Prius are within a couple of MPG
http://www.greenhybrid.com/compare/mileage/
https://www.fueleconomy.gov/mpg/MPG.do?action=browseList
Please Mr. Ortiz, oth the HCH and the Prius are great cars. Let the people decided without adding your biased views and lies !
I just bought a HCH. I love it!
I am still on my first tank of gas.
I did not like the view out the back of the Pruis.
I also read articlaes that with real driverd on real roads the Civiv & Pruis were equal on milage( avg 45mpg).
It was also $2000 cheaper than the Pruis.
Funny that Toyota should raise prices $2,000 when the goverment gives a tax break of almost the same amount? Inside information?
I'v driven Honda for 10 years and also like the reliability. I also understand the Hybrid will be made in the USA in 2007.
Andrea - I fully agree with your comment, "I did not like the view out the back of the Pruis". This was one of the biggst reasons we went with the HCH over the Prius. The "bar" that seperated the sloped rear window and the nearly vertical window on the back, was dead in the middle of my field of view. My wife is nearly a foot shorter then I am and it was right in the middle of her view also. Dealer we spoke to said, "you will get used to it" and to be honest, he might be right, as Ihad not noticed it in the test drive I took, but my wife did (Does this mean she is more observant them I am ?!?!?).
I absolutely adore my HCH, it is a stick shift and from the Prius owners I know I find I get better gas mileage. But I think with most manual transmissions you tend to get better gas mileage. Besides that I love the style of my '05, it is a beautiful color, drives and handles wonderfully, and has great room for passengers.
When I bought the car I went in, picked my color and drove home with the one I wanted right from the Honda dealer, no waiting necessary. I also negotiated my price down and paid the MSRP price that included all options, taxes, tags, and an extended warranty.
I own a Toyota Prius AND Honda Civic Hyrbid, both in blue of course. I bout both because i couldnt deside on one or the other, plus i got the cash to blow. I enoy driving the Pruis More, because of its 21st centuray design.
Drive the Prius back to back with the '06 HCH and the Civic win's hands down in terms of handling, smoothness and overall responsiveness. In the Prius you sit high up with the non telescoping steering wheel almost flush to the dashboard. It is noisier, tippier and more subject to crosswinds.. in return you do get more utility with a larger/fold down rear seats and hatchback (which I prefer). I know this is a sweeping statement but if you don't like driving buy the Prius - you do get a lot of electronic toys and everyone will 'appreciate' the styling. I asked myself if i would buy the prius if it wasn't a hybrid and the answer was no. The HCH is a car i would buy even if it wasn't a hybrid.
We drove both and liked the HCH better. The Prius was nice, but my wife hated the interior and loved the new 06 HCH two-tier dash. We have 1600 miles on our HCH and we love it more today than the day we purchased it. I am a hair over 6' tall and the Prius was easier to get in and out of. No worries, I am waiting to drive (perhaps buy a second Hybrid) the New Camry Hybrid! :>) Much better styling than the odd-looking but ever-more present Prius.
O.K. One of the last questions: My wife has an '06 PRIUS and loves it. I have driven it a bit and find it a little difficult on the getting in/out portion (sterring wheel to seat ratio - im a bit large). Once in though its a decent fit. I love the buttons and gizmos but do not like the styling that well. Learning the gizmos is a little confusing and needs a course on full features by the dealers. Our bluetooth phones for some reason will drop/disconnect from the system and have to be re-connected (a pain since you can't do any adjusting while driving). Long distance backing or maneuvering is a bit of a pain, the built in camera is of no real help except for what is DIRECTLY behind (bikes/toys or trash cans). Not a good use for judging side objects (and I have a class III truck license). Adding "features" on the PRIUS seems to be very restrictive. Different wheels cant be done due to the tire pressure sensors in them. Remote start cant be done due to the starting method on the PRIUS. The HCH seems to offer a better platform to have a regular car with enhancements, while still enjoying the benefits of MPG and HOV access (for now). I have yet to take the plung on either (for myself this time) but as the clock tics, I'm getting impatient. Has someone else out there had the same indecision on the HCH vs. the PRIUS? And if so - what was the final straw(s) that swayed you? Anyone own an '06 HCH and have some input (good or bad)? Thanks!
I need to make a final decision by this weekend (lease expires on my old car) I constantly hear good things about the Prius but when I went for a test drive I thought the rear window resembled a roof window more than a rear window because of its position. I live in hilly area of a major car crazed city (I see bad accidents at least 3 a week very nearby) so I feel the need to have really good windows. The lack of a real trunk also discourages me. Although I haven't tested the Honda as yet (I will today) my main concern is that of regular maintainence & repairs do you find that you must go to the dealer or have any of you found that it is fine going to a regular mechanic. Any other thoughts you can share will also be appreciated. Thanks
I just got my HCH '06 and love it. The new-design Civics have many of the most-desired features in the Pruis and a well-equipped Civic will cost much less than a decked out Pruis. I have the voice-activated Navi system in mine and it is well-worht the almost $2K asking price. The dash layout, safety and comfort, along with availability and cost (I got mine under sticker with free dealer-installed options) amde it a quick choice. The tax break ($2100 credit on HCH) is nice as well. The Civic uses its gas engine more and the system is not quite as sophisticated as the Pruis, but it is also cheaper to maintain (at least the batteries if they ever do die). I'm sold on the Honda technology.
I am considering buying a hybrid, and I am specifically looking at the HCH and Prius. One interesting thing that I have discovered about respective prices is that the Prius comes with an 8yr/100,000 mile warranty on the "Hybrid-Related Components". To get 8yr/120,000 mile coverage on the HCH hybrid cell, a dealer quoted me $1680. Considering the bells and whistles that the Prius offers and this point about warranty cost, the prices start to look more similar.
The standard warranty on the HCH battery pack is 8 years/80,000 miles.
I just bought a new PRIUS, and I love it. I like the technolgy and the space and enjoy every bit of it. It might be higher than HCH, but it has a lot more technology.
I guess if you like technology go for Prius, if you like a simple one then it's hch.
My family is on-the-fence about prius vs honda. My husband and I are split (I like the Prius, he the honda). But we're trying to figure out if we need to think about our 15-year old twins who will be driving this car in about 2 years. Will the Prius pose more difficulties with navigation due to the rear window visibility? Will the bells and whistles cost us more, if they lose the entry key? Will they become more distracted by the techno info that is on the screen? Or.....are we just worrying too much?
What would the twins choose? Note to any lurking auto company marketeers, pay attention to the response here :-)
I've had a Prius for almost a year and basically bought it for the 40/60 split seat. It comfortably sits 5 adults and has the luggage space of a mid size car with the seats up but like most people it might be once every three months I actually fill it up with people.
On the other hand my insulated coveralls, -40 felt boots, hockey stick and skates ... and occasionally 8' 2x4's, laminated flooring, and other things to get my new residence up to snuff. I even had a large piece of furniture from a discount store in there for a few miles although my face was almost to the windshield.
I didn't want to drive around a pickup just to commute to work and haul around a git of stuff and my Prius is doing everything I want. My trailer pulling days are over.
As far as cold weather goes it functions fine, maybe carries a higher charge when it gets cold and takes an even bigger hit on the mileage in Alberta at -30 than in did in Georgia at +90.
The only complaint I have is I can't join Club Toyota because I have a US Prius and Toyota's pricing for a Prius in Canada really is ridiculous. I paid county tax in the US .... then GST, Duty, provincial inspection fees and other things in Canada .... and I still saved a couple thousand dollars. Wake up Toyota, the Canadian dollar isn't still 70 cents. It's hard to justify a Prius over a Corolla/Camry in Canada even with the fuel taxes.
I'm in the market for a new car and have decided to go with the HCH with Navigation system...does it have fold down back seats? 60/40? and does anyone have any information on the worst experience they've had with the new 2006 HCH? I'd like to go into this purchase as informed as possible. Thanks
Love, love, love my 06' HCH!! I bought mine January 2nd. The seats don't fold down, but that's not been a problem for me. I was never sold on the look of the Prius and the 06' HCH is so sharp! Love the Aux In jack for my iPod, the sound is great! No complaints here.
We were going crazy deciding between the two and went with the Prius. I love everything about it - and the extra room with the hatch and the folding seats is just great. We drove to the beach with 2 large chairs, a 50pound dog, a kid and two adults plus overnight baggage - there's no way we could do that in the Honda.....
I bought an '05 Prius in December '04 and was very happy until the A/C compressor (which does run on it's own electric motor) went bad and the price to replace was $1344! My guess is that the newer Civics would cost as much since they now also run off the electrical system. Why are we comparing the Prius and Civic to begin with? The Prius is much larger and more powerful. The correct comparison would be with the Hybrid Accord,which cost $8000 more.
Actually the Prius and the civic are direct competitors. The Accord is closer to the Hybrid Camry as far as class. Prius and Civic are compacts, and accords and Camrys are mid size.
The higher price structure of the Prius with its option packages was designed by Gulf States Toyota actually and takes a base price similar to that of the civic and turns the Prius into a very expensive vehicle relative to what you get based on material cost of the car.
They are both great cars.
I just bought a 2006 Prius, and my boyfriend drives a 2006 Honda Civic. There is no doubt, both cars have alot to offer to whomever purchases them. I think Honda is sharp/sporty looking, and I think the Prius is unique/futuristic looking. For me, I chose the Prius because I found it to be more comfortable then the Civic, the resale value is tremendous, and the interior is appealing. The Prius actually makes you aware of your driving habits because you can monitor your gas milage as you are driving with the multi function display. I also like the style of the car, it's different. Hpwever, I think the Civic is a great car too - and both cars promote conservation and reliabilty. You just can't go wrong no matter what you chose.
To me, comparing the cars is like comparing life in New York State and California. I'm from NY, but lived out in California for a while and when people would ask me "Do you think California is better then New York?" I would always say, "Not better, just different."
I just want to address what everyone has been saying about the "real world" driving. I own a 2005 Prius, and while the mileage is not 60 mpg, I consistently get in the high 50's on a tank, and I do about half my driving on the highways. The way I drive it does affect this, I will admit, but there is no significant change in my habits. If I'm not in a hurry, I'll slow down an little and go the speed limit or maybe just below. If not, I'll go my usual 5 over.
A quick note to anyone concidering purchasing a hybrid. The Prius was designed from the ground up AS a hybrid. All the other cars (with the exception of the rolling-matchbox insight) are just regular cars with a hybrid engine thrown in. Personally, I have a lot more trust in a well designed system vs. the result of a company jumping on the band wagon.
I would also have to agree with the previous messages on space. I am 6'5 and my wife is 6' and we both fit in the front and back seats of the Prius with no problems. I am still amazed at the room and comfort I have.
I love my Prius and wouldn't trade it for anything else. The amount of money it has saved me over my old car is very impressive. Not only did I not have to sacrifice to get great gas mileage, I've actually come out ahead.
I have had my 2006 Prius for 2 months now. I have averaged 46.1 MPG. I find that I do get better mileage on the highway, even though the Prius is rated to be better for city driving - perhaps Boston city driving is cursed. I believe that the number one reason that I have been able to achieve this mileage is the real-time computer monitor that tracks the five minute intervals MPG. I have also become more attuned to road and traffice conditions, as well as topography. I like elements of both cars, but needed more flexibility with a hatchback. I also think that the Prius provides more amenities for gadget people. I must admit, however, that I have still not spent any time figuring out the nav system. I was more interested in the additional safety features that came with that package.
I just bought an 2006 HCH with navigation system. They are hard to get in the SF Bay Area, demand is high, and the wait can be 6 weeks to 3 months. But I called all the local dealers, found the only one with Nav, and ran over there and drove it away. The person who ordered it never picked it up. If you ordered one - go get it the minute you get the call! The dealer told me they wait only 48 hours for a response/pick up, then they sell it.
I love this car! It's comfortable, economical, nice to drive, nice control panel, good visibility, *much* more powerful than I expected, and looks great. It's programmed for lots of verbal commands - it's fun saying "air conditioner on!" and having the AC start up. And so much safer than looking for the buttons/swtiches. Very futuristic. I didn't like the rear window visibility in the Prius and thought it could be dangerous.
The HCH is my commute car (100 miles a day). I have the stickers to drive in the commute lane, but even the commute lane can have sections of crawling at 5-10 mph. I'm getting about 50mpg and am well satisfied.
I test drove both of these cars this past Saturday. I took my 3 children along to be sure they could fit in the back. Both are great cars. The honda civic won my kids over in a flash. They liked it much better then the Prius because the Civic has a completely flat rear floor. There is no hump to put you legs around. I like the Civi dashboard design better then than the Prious and I loved its Navigation system. I also liked the Civic's lower Price and its styling. However, when I drove the car, I noticed that at highway speeds the steering seemed "twitchy" or over reactive. Everything else was great. When I test drove the Prius, I noticed it had more room in both front and rear but it did not have a flat rear floor. I didn't like the shifter and the smart key start and park buttons seemed unecessary. The rear view out the back was fine even without the camera, of course I am coming from an SUV and a full size Van. The Prius drove great, no twitchy steering. In addition, I think in my stop and go driving the electric only option will be a great help. I also like the rear fold down seats though I doubt I will use this option much. As to which one I like best, I think they are both great but I lean towards the Prius. With the difference in the tax credit amount the Prius is not much more than the Civic. However, if the Civic dealer gives me a great deal or the Prius was unavailable, I would buy the Civic. Now that the Hybrid Camry is coming out, I might wait for that...
In time, you might come to love the Smart entry/start. When we got ours, I thought it was frivolous. After some time, I have realized how nice it is to never have to dig my keys out of my pocket to open the door or start the car. I definitely want it on my next vehicle.
Both great cars and enjoyed driving both. I got 51 MPG even coming back from SAn ANtonio tofay with two stops and airconditioning on. HCH II.
Anyway, I didnt care for a lot of the warning beeps and such in the Prius as well as the car/tire energy flow diagram on the Prius. Too much like a video game for me. Also, the Honda isnt as tall and has a wider wheel base relative to its height making it more stable to drive. In addition, structurally the Honda is the safer car in an accident. The Prius improves on the structural vulnerability issues with air bags and is safe but still doesnt catch the Honda in safety.
I dont like the fact that the DTRs are always on in the HCH II and would prefer a switch myself. I do not know what the DTR status is on the Prius but would be interested in finding out. DTR= daytime running lights.
I test drove the 2007 Toyota Camry non-hybrid and its a good car for sure. Initial real mileage reports show it getting only 30 MPGs though, despite its 40 MPG rating.
On the engineering side, the HCH II engine is really quite an accomplishment. The more I drive it and see how the car and motors/ICE respond to driving conditions the more I realize how ell though out the car really is. The Prius is well designed too, but the Honda does use a newer thought process redesigned within only the past couple of years.
My understanding from Toyota is that they will redesign the Prius within the next few years. Here in Houston, there are no HCH IIs on any lots but you can get a Prius at several Toyota locations. Not unexpected since many more Priuses are being made right now.
If you are in Canada, you will save about $5,400 buying the base Honda over the base Prius. Toyota is ripping off it's customers.
I bought a new '06 HCH in February, after driving BOTH the 06 Prius and an 06 HCH, over a 20 mile stretch of give and take, but good quality blacktop back roads near Medford, Oregon.
The HCH handles FAR better than the Prius, and frankly is not so "in your face" green. I also RACE--autocross and hillclimb in a very fast, very modified Saab Sonett V4 coupe--so I am interested in how ANY car I own handles in an emergency situation. Avoidance handling. Emergency lane change, that sort of thing--NOT race track handling.
The HCH, when asked to perform a 40 mph full G-force avoidance maneauver, simply hunkers down, and makes the maneauver, aided by adding full throttle at the proper moment to stabilize the car. When I asked the Prius to do the same maneauver, at the same point on the road, it leaned over [suggesting that perhaps roller skates on the door handles might be in order], the engine SHUT DOWN when I asked it for full throttle, and some stupid bells began to ding at me in the cabin. EXACTLY what you need in an emergency situation? I think not. An engineering DUMB solution to the perception that nobody knows how to actually DRIVE a car. Well I DO know how, and I know that the HCH can be relied upon to do the right things if I have to avoid some moron in a HUMMER. The Prius designers have not done anyone any favors in the SAFETY handling department.
Incidentaly, my fuel mileage figures--city average-43.5, highway average 47.6 [rolling 75mph, along with the hot dogs in their SUV's].
I keep waiting for the DOWNside of this Honda Civic Hybrid. So far--its all UP.
wow Jack. Fascinating post. Your knowledge and expereience is impressive and interesting. My simpleton thought was " Gee- wider wheelbase and less height? The HCH II must be more stable."
Your drive test extends that truth to a more formal reach and understanding.
I am now in the envious position of owning both a 2006 HCH and a 2006 Prius. Both are registered concurrently and their use is rotated.
The HCH has 20,000 miles with a lifetime MPG of 50. This is based upon painstakingly capping the tank and dividing it by the miles driven.
The Prius has about 6000 miles and the mpg computer has been showing approx. 55 mpg. My concern is that due to the design of the Prius gas tank and bladder it is difficult to cap the tank without spilling gas or risking damage to the emissions canister.Therefore I have to rely on the accuracy of the mpg computer.
I'm interested in hearing from other Prius owners as to their opinion of the accuracy of the mpg computer.
I love both cars and it is a toss up as to which is my favorite. As the Prius tends to get better FE
under city driving conditions and the HCH under highway conditions I try to base my decision as to which vehicle to use on this criteria.
I owned Prius 2005, hated the handling on the freeway, especially the curves. Sold it to buy a bmw 330i (that handled the curves just fine :-)). Recently bought civic hybrid 2006, it's not bmw, but definitely handles freeway driving much better than Prius. If it's mostly city driving, then Prius would be ok for me.
I bought a Prius in Dec. '99. It has mostly highway miles as I have a long commute, 77 miles one-way, between home and work. This Prius has 212,000 miles. I get about 46mpg with all those highway miles. The Prius has only had one major repair consisting of some sensors, main computer and catalytic converters.
Whenever I do buy another car, it will be Prius.
I will like to post a correction on my statement on the Miles per Tank on the Prius. It should read 714 per Tank full of gas and not Gallons. I apologize for the mix up.
To Larry: I have a PH.D. and I can work with whom ever I want. I just like selling Toyotas. By the way, we have a Honda dealer across from our store. I have been offered management positions there, but because they are a Honda dealer I will not take the position. The main reason, is that Honda is so far behind Toyota it is not even funny.
Larry: Face it, Toyota is a lot better than Honda.
Face the facts, We are crushing every market. Oh by the way, we have no Prius in stock nor Camry hybrid. I think the store across the road from us has both, the Accord hyb. and the Civic hyb in stock.
What does that tell you Larry???
Just face it. Toyota is better.
No more to it, Larry.
By the way everyone,
How come Motor Trend is the only company that choses Hondas as the "car of the year" while other magazines or organizations pick other cars.
The reason is simple, MOTOR TREND IS PAID BY HONDA TO PICK THEM. I called them. Ask anyone in the business about this. It is like PAYOLA. Oh wait a minute, It is PAYOLA!!!!!!!
Toyota is still better than Honda LARRY and we do not have to pay anyone to out sell you in any market or category. People just know.
Thank you every one!
You are all very kind.
You might want to be careful with the Motor Trend "being paid to pick Honda" comment. Aren't they the ones that picked the Prius in 2004? I personally bought a new Prius in 2004 and still have it and love it. I have recently replaced my mini-van with a 2006 HCH and also love that car. Each car has it's quirks and benefits. I am 6 feet tall. The Prius is easier to get in and out. The HCH handles a little bit better. Either way folks, they are hybrids and should be purchased. I have 58,500 on the Prius with no problems, just over 2,000 on the HCH no problems. Similar mileage and I am a very careful driver, primarily 51 in both cars. Great CARS!!! (By the way 714 mpg, no way! Not without running the tank to nothing and taking a major chance on running out. Also, not running with any kind of comfort from A/C)
hey rubin dot get upset with honda company there not behind toyota in tech wise thats for sure.honda has more
and reliable in their product whther car or bike.
My wife and I are station wagon people, so the Prius hatchback is, currently, as close as we'll get, barring a Highlander, Escape or Lexus hybrid (God, the price!!). We also own a Volvo XC70 and a Ford Escort wagon. I've had the 2006 Prius for about 2 1/2 weeks now and do enjoy it. Some have commented on the handling ability, but I find it very stable, even at California freeway speeds.
I have the package #8, so the car has the backup camera. That James Bond fish-eye screen is really handy. I enjoy both the keyless entry and starting, and the Bluetooth system, but I have yet to really master the NAV system.
My mileage, so far, stays in the low 40s, with a top of 48 mpg. This is mostly freeway driving. Of course it's not broken in yet, with less that a thousand miles. I have a few small gripes, such as the glare in the side mirror from the grey plastic trim around the A/C vent, the dim speedometer cluster while wearing Polaroid sun glasses, and the constant fingerprints on the display LCD. Other than that, it's a great car, very spacious and comfortable. The seats, in leather, are nearly equal to those in the Volvo, which are superb.
We purchased the Prius through Costco, at $100 under MSRP. Most LA/OC dealers in California are adding on $2-4K, with chrome wheels (hah!) and window tint (the factory tint is just fine). A Prius is definately now a Low Rider Car! It took nine weeks for the car to arrive, but I got the color and package I wanted. No hassle. I even financed the car through Costco and CapitalOne, who send me a black check. The rate was well under what I could find locally.
I thought about the HCH, but (1) it's a sedan, and (2) I couldn't find one to drive anywhere. Fortunately my brother-in-law owns a 2005 Prius, so I was able to test drive his car. The $3150 tax credit brings the $29,186 I paid to a more reasonable level. Plus my HOV stckers arrived today...... What more you you want?
Sorry! I meant "NOT a Low Rider car", and a BLANK, not black, check! I am a retired teacher, so spelling and grammer errors really bother me!
Hi, just wondering... we are moving to the Rockies, about an hour from Denver... Our commute will be going up and down about 2,500 ft daily in elevation. I just sold my 4 cylinder Dodge minivan because it was completely gutless and could barely go 35 mph up the hill!!! Anyone use a hybrid in the mountains? I am wondering if the fuel economy is worth it, I just don't want to be the dork on the shoulder of the highway going 35 mph anymore!!! Also, maybe it is the nerd in me, but I just LOVE the styling of the Prius! I am surprised to hear that people think it needs restyling. I would buy one today if I could test drive it up the hill!!
One thing to help avoid the fingerprints on the screen is to use the back edge of your fingernail. It has worked great. I hardly ever get any fingerprints. I do agree on the dim dash lighting with sunglasses on.
toyota and honda are both good car companies. It is all a matter of personal opinion. Doesn't matter which one you pick they are both good long lasting vehicles. I personally liked the HCH better than the prius. I just purchased my 07 hch yesterday and am averaging 51mpg. All that matters is...this is a hybrid forum so by wanting to know about and purchasing hybrid cars to drive is step forward to saving money at the pump, and protecting the enviroment. Every little bit counts. Your comparing apples to apples in the thread. Its really a choice of name and what fits your needs.
Both good, but i'll still go for Honda, i've been using this car for so long now....
http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/video563/honda_type-r_japan_version_v...
I just bought an '08 Prius and I absolutely LOVE IT!! I will admit, the HCH does win in the looks department. This is because the Prius design is based on aerodynamics. The Prius is aerodynamicly more efficient than the HCH. It also has a much more interior space than HCH. I can carry all the same things I could in my Jeep Cherokee.
I have gotten good at diving the Prius, and I can now average 58mpg over combinations of both city and highway terrain. Out of curiosity, I went to the Honda dealer to test drive a HCH, and using the same hybrid driving tecniques, I could only average 51mpg. A 7mpg difference is HUGE over the life of a vehicle!!!
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