I don't think the reason for Prius popularity is build quality so much as the features and availability, and a degree of "oh, look at me in my Prius!" for some. My purchase was based mainly on the fact that it has the cargo capacity and configuration of a miniaturized SUV whereas I had been struggling with my 2-door Accord. But put a HCH wagon in front of me and I would have had a very tough decision to make! Unfortunately I couldn't even find a HCH to test drive, whereas the 25 Prius sitting on one particular dealer's lot gave me a pretty solid bargaining chip.

There are also a few gearhead reasons that I thought the Prius **might** be a bit more reliable over the long-haul, though those reasons are probably unfounded. But there are other gearhead reasons that make me almost certain that a Civic would give me slightly better fuel economy in the kind of driving that I generally do (plenty of city but biased toward highway overall.) So I had to choose what is most important to me. I bought the right car for my needs, and a Civic just as easily could have been the right car under different circumstances.

Speaking of which, you must have gone through the decision making process that led you to a HCH over a Prius. At least some of those reasons must remain valid, yes? What were they?

 

That is a good question. I started a new thread just for this question. I'm sure I'll learn a lot more about pros and cons of both cars - looking forward!

cheers

 

I have had my HCHII for about a month and a half and overall I am very satisfied but I agree about the seats being uncomfortable. After about an hour driving, my back is really feeling it, the seats are like rocks. I am going to have to strap a pillow to the seat or something.

 

You might like this:

http://www.tempurpedic.com/TempurCMS...omfortcushion/

 

LOL. Thanks, I just might get the lumbar one.

 

try good quality sheepskin seat covers. They make a dramatic difference in comfort by filling in low spots and add a bit of extra cushion. Plus they really do keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

 

They also block the side airbags.

Try seat "vests".

 

That only applies if you get generic covers. Custom fitted sheepskins accommodate safety and specific seat dimensions.

 

Can you post pics? I've never seen them with custom cut-outs for the sideairbags.

 

Here's a pic of how much room the side airbag would need. I'd like some more information on this custom seat cover that doesn't impede this safety feature.