These "hybrids" have always intrigued me, ever since a couple of years back. I wanted a change from my 2000 Honda Accord so I started "looking." During my search I found out that the TCH was available (didn't know until recently).

Went to Downtown Toyota (Vancouver, Canada) and asked if I could test drive one. Impossible because they didn't have any. I did drive the Prius instead, which was quite neat. Anyway, I found out that the TCH was in high demand. I was told it would be at least 2-3 months waiting time. I was willing to wait so I asked if they could do an appraisal on my Honda so I know what I'm dealing with. The salesman (himming and hawing) tells me he could do it but that it would take some time, etc. I said fine. Then he tells me to wait while he talks to the manager... he comes back after a few minutes saying that they didn't want to do the appraisal because in 2-3 months time the value would be lower, meaning another appraisal... I left thinking maybe I should consider other cars.

The next day (Sept. 27), I decide to drop into another Toyota dealership in my neighbourhood, Regency Toyota, not expecting much. The salesman that came up to me was a nice guy, the super eager kind willing to cater to the customer's every needs for a sale. I usually try to stay away from this type but didn't matter as I wasn't going to be buying, I was expecting to hear the same story as the day prior. When I asked about the TCH, he tells me that they just got one in a couple of days ago (unclaimed because it was ordered by the manager for personal use) that I could test-drive! To make a long story short, not only were they willing to do the appraisal (Faheem, the GM, happened to be there and he did it himself, and he was going to let me drive my Honda until my TCH came in without dropping the trade-in value), they offered to sell me the one in stock (White B Package) immediately. Was tempted but opted to wait for the colour I really wanted, #1 silver or #2 grey in package B. The GM promises that he would find either in 4 to 6 weeks. I didn't believe he could but went along with it... Last Friday (Oct. 13), Faheem calls me and says that he might have my car within a few days (because the couple who were suppose to take the car decided to get a different)! On Saturday I drive by the dealership and see a silver TCH - went in and my salesman confirms that it is mine. However, since it was already late on Saturday and because the service department is closed on Sunday, the car wouldn't be ready until Monday. It was the longest 2 days but well worth it. Picked it up after work yesterday and can't be happier for the following reasons:

1. Got the exact car I wanted in 2 1/2 weeks!!!
2. I don't know why or how but mudflaps and wheel locks were FREE!
3. A couple other complimentary goodies (winter mats, cargo box, etc.)
4. It was made in Japan.
5. My car buying experience was a great one!