[lendaddy]

Originally posted by jyl
In the Toyota line, a Prius is similar to a Camry in available equipment/conveniences (leather, power, GPS nav, traction/stability control, etc etc), a little smaller exterior but carries about the same (due to the hatchback). The non-hybrid Camry MSRP ranges from $19K base to $28K fully loaded w/ V6. Said Camry gets about 24 MPG in the city and about 33 MPG highway (V6 models are about 2 MPG worse). The Prius MSRP is about $22K base to about $30K fully loaded. And the Prius gets 40 to 45 MPG in the city and 50 to 55 MPG highway (my experience in summer weather, some people manage to get more). So, if you can justify buying a Camry, you can justify buying a Prius. Assuming 12K miles/yr, half city and half highway, and $3.50 gas, the MPG difference will sum to about $2,800 over 5 years. Which is about the same as the MSRP difference. Assuming more city driving, or higher gas prices, or more miles driven, the savings will be higher.

I've seen many a Prius and to compare it to a Camry is silly. I imagine Toyota agrees which is why they make a Camry hybrid as well.