I started thinking about
I started thinking about purchasing a Rav4 Hybrid as soon as I saw the improved mileage ratings. My wife and I had talked about a Prius for a couple of years, but when it came down to it, a month of mud season here in SW New Hampshire made
the low clearance a problem, and my 6'3" frame was clamoring for a vehicle easier than our Corolla to enter, exit, and ride in comfortably. This was especially for longer road trips now that we're retired. We went to our local dealer to look at the one LE they had on the lot. I walked away because I knew a dealer an hour north had one on special listed for considerably less. The first dealer called me less than 5 minutes later and said they'd take $3,000 off. I guess this doesn't fit with the idea that they're hard to come by, but... We came back the next day and purchased it. Downside: the black interior, but we have seat covers on the way. Upside: 50+ mpg!, comfortable to drive, and easy to get in and out of. Plus the more than adequate space with the rear seats up, and even more with them down. (No regrets, other than nobody recognizes me in the dark red, stylish Rav4 that I drive more frequently now than my dark green, much less flashy Tacoma. Oh well!)