Honda hybrid: 2003 vs 2004

I am just about to buy a new Honda hybrid. I was impressed with my test
drive and with what I've read about both the gas/electric power system
and the Continuously Variable Transmission. Since it is getting close
to new-model introduction time, my question is: has anyone heard
anything about what might be in 2004 hybrids that would make them
clearly superior to 2003's?

Obviously, the 2004 models have no track record. I was just soliciting
best-guess opinions on the pros and cons of buying now or waiting for
the new models. Thanks in advance for any input.

- Gary G

 

As he said. The new Prius looks much improved. Higher capacity
motor, a little more power to the engine via raising the redline
(5000 vs 4500). Accel improved from ~12+ to ~10+ 0-60. Bigger,
heavier(?) but significantly improved EPA mpg ratings. Doesn't
look as dorky, IMHO. I'd give it a good look before signing on
the dotted line for a Civic Hybrid.

 

I never considered the 2003 Prius before I bought my Civic Hybrid.
I also hadn't considered a VW Golf TDI, rated at 49mpg highway.

I'd probably look at the new Toyota if I were in the market for a 2004, but
I am so satisfied with my Civic I doubt that I would buy the Prius, which
I still think is not good looking.

I was surprised that the 2003 Civic is EPA rated as larger interior than
the 2003 Prius. That thing is so ugly, with big slabs of metal for sides,
that I assumed it was substantially bigger than the Civic.

Currently my three concerns about the Civic Hybrid:
The MPG indication is 10% high, which the dealer tells me was also true in
the Insight, but it was fixed with a firmware upgrade.
The grab handle over the driver's door prevents the visor from swinging out
all the way against the window.
The Climate Control vents don't stay where I put them.

Not a very heavy list for a 500 mile per week car with 8000 miles on it.

I've been told by other owners that the CVT tends to give better mileage
than the stick because people don't keep the RPM low enough with the
stick. I have the CVT.

 

I drive a 280 mile round trip once a week with my Civic. On the Southbound
leg I set speed control at 65mph, and average 51mpg. On the northbound
leg, I encounter traffic, and sometimes keep up with the flow at 75mph.
That averages between 43-46mpg.

 

Quoth in

Cool.

 

How is the handling of the new Prius. The old one handled like a flounder.

 

I thought the handling of my 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid was pretty bad.
I increased the tire pressure from 30 to 35 psi. That improved the
handling a lot, but increased the road noise dramatically.
The tires have a max rating of 45 psi, but the Honda recommended pressure
is 30psi.