I chose the hch over the prius for a couple of reasons

1. i like the fact the hch looks like a regular car. it doesn't stand out. i picked up the magnesium mettalic and besides the thicker grill, the top antenna and the hybrid plate, I can pass off as an EX and go unnoticed when i drive or park.

2. availability. toyota said it would be 3-6 months and they did not have one to test drive or even sit inside. hmmm.... honda found me a grey one and brought it to the dealership from another location.

3. price. i paid 19k for the hch with the cvt and the color i wanted, and the prius with the options was nowhere close.


I like having the more traditional dashboard and the ability to see what my car is doing every minute while i drive, and helps me to drive better.

as far as gas mileage, i'm getting 53 on my commute. So EPA ratings are out the window.

My Hybrid

2004 Civic w/ CVT
Magnesium Metallic
my commute 53 miles each way