i have read in other forums that the prius (i think it was anyway) actually was getting a boost in mpg around the 4k to 5k mark....as all the parts start getting broken in.

i am on my first tank...have had the car for a week...and i am getting over 36mpg. the only thing different in the way i drive the camry hybrid is just taking my time building up to cruising speed. i don't expect a drop off in mpg and i think it's crazy to start having second thoughts because of a test article like that.

If 31-32 were what it got, I would have bought a Highlander Hybrid which should be worth 28-30 mpg if not driven aggressively.

Then again if you were the type of driver to get 31 on a TCH you would be the type of driver to get 22 on a HH. It's all relative.

i am on my first tank...have had the car for a week...and i am getting over 36mpg

I'm guessing as you break it in and gain experience you'll be a 37 to 39+ regular.

My first tank was low around 32, and each tank is progressively going up. At 2200 miles I have 525 miles on thie tank and the guage states 38.7MPG tank average, I am guessing it is really aroun 37. That is far above my initial target to not regret buying the car. MPG seems to have climbed steadily and more rapidly since 1600 miles or so and putting in synthetic 0W20. If I can maintain 35-36 I will be saving $1000 a year in gas even at the new lower $2.50 gas prices. If gas goes back up 50 cents my savings clime a tad to $1200 annually, even without the tax credit the hybrid pays for the hybrid premium for me in 2 years.

That is far above my initial target to not regret buying the car.

You're heading in the right direction. I know break-in helps but I believe most gains in the first 3000 miles really comes from becoming more familiar with the hybrid system. As long as I get 36 to 37 I'll be estatic. Getting 39 is more of a challenge thing but doesn't save me significant money over 37, even at 3000 miles per month that I'm currently driving (that's sure to slow down?)

I don't know about break-in as mine did 43.6 right out of the box and has continued no less than 40 as a worst tank average and latest tank 42.6, if break-in has a large bearing i will be one happy dude.

TCH-43mpg
VW TDI--48
08 LS 600 HL-20
08 LX 470-16

With over 2000 miles on mine I am seeing an improvment in FE.