A great discussion. Since I have not driven an HCH I can't say it is a better car or better technology than the Prius. I cansay that after 40,000 plus miles I have done better than EPA combined mileage by about 3.2% after adjusting the EPA Combined for my driving pattern of 35% City and 65% Highway.


Methodology:

EPA combined MPG figures assume 45% City at 60 MPG and 55% Highway at 51 MPG for a combined 55 MPG

My own overall figures are 35% City and 65% Highway for a combined 55.9 MPG

The adjusted EPA figures for 35% City and 65% Highway would yield a combined (.35 * 60 mpg = 21) + (.65 * 51 mpg = 33.15) = 54.15 MPG



This makes me very happy of course. I am certain there are HCH owners who are just as pleased, if not more so, with their autos. What I try to keep in mind is that we are all cards in the same deck. Use less oil, produce less pollution, and save money doing it. While none of the current offerings are perfect they each have their place. What could be better right now, today? Better, cleaner, more efficient technology is certainly on the way and I for one won't mind who introduces it, just as long as it happens. And the sooner the better.

Alden Bowles
2005 Toyota Prius II HSD