Just another data point for you: my experience is pretty much in line with that of Eskrimast1 above.

I did a test on a flat stretch of interstate with mild temps and no wind, and I found that I got:

- 45 MPG at 72 miles per hour
- 52 MPG at 66 miles per hour

Using cruise control, no A/C, etc.

I have gotten MPG in these ranges for the life of my car, which is at about 13,000 miles now.

Why is Prius not an option?
Recently, I did a 65 mile (each way) commute to a suburb for a business trip. In my Prius going 70-80 miles per hour, I got 53.8 MPG round trip (w/air conditioning). My boss, who does the exact same commute every day says he gets 40 or so in his HCH. Has anyone else seen that Prius is better at higher speeds than the HCH?

I really don't mean to get into a Prius v. HCH fight, I think they both have definite plusses, but maybe that is a solution?

Thanks guys...

I have to chime in again.

My commute is 56-60 miles, one way, through the rolling hills of NJ. About 35 of those miles are on interstate highway, speed limit of 65. The typical speed on the roadway is 75-90. I hug the right lane and run about 70. Mind you, it takes me a full mile, using a large downhill to get to 70. My morning commute (including the country roads) averages about 72 mpg using the the OSD, which is optimistic. The return runs trip runs about 60-62 mpg. I kill my mileage with the 10 mile soccer trips and grocery runs.

Things that kill my mpg: Weather (as soon as there is standing water, the mpg goes down), traffic (I try to leave for work before 545 am), extreme heat (A/C) cold (engine performance).

I just trekked from Livingston to DC, with two kids, luggage, and several stops. The OSD reads 58.2 mpg. I had a stiff headwind all the way down. I was pleased.

-Charlie...

Who can find one Hillary? I couldn't even find one to test drive, plus a 4 month waiting list...didn't matter anyway with my wife saying the Prius is too star trekky.

Theatre Guy, I would strongly urge you not to purchase an 03 HCH with 64K miles on it for $16K...that's way too much money for a car with that many miles. I'd either buy a regular Civic, or bite the bullet and go with a newer unit. That said, I would wait for the 06 HCH coming. A better car at a comparable price.

Kansas, not as flat as you think...

I respect Toyota and the cars they make....but I just can't get past the exterior design of the Prius. IMO, the Civic is a much better looking car.

Well, after looking at the available HCH's in my area, I've desided to wait for the 06. I have my name on a list and I'm looking forward to buying my first hybrid and becoming a contributing member to this group.

Thanks again, to everyone, for the great advice. This has been very helpful.

Thanks,

Drew

Congrats Theaterguy! I think waiting for the 06 is a better move than purchasing one of the 05s due to the changes Honda made to eek out a little more efficiency. I'm sure you won't be disappointed and I look forward to seeing you post more *after* you receive yours!

Rick

I want to get the Honda Insight when I finish college. It is such a cute little car that is perfect for me. I just hope the wait isn't too long. I will be getting in 2007 of the summertime when i finish college. I may get it sooner if the waiting list is long.