So while I sit and wait for my TCH to arrive I decided to try to analyze what the “hybrid premium” is in Canada, or specifically Ontario for the Canadian forum visitors. In Canada, the base TCH comes pretty well equipped at $31900 (there is only one option pkg that adds moonroof, leather, power passenger, and lighted vanity mirrors). I decided to compare the base TCH model with the LE V6 “B” pkg which is close in options and price to the base Hybrid and priced at $31795.



First price, suppose you could get $1000 discount on the LE. On my TCH on order I paid MSRP but got $350 of free accessories. The LE has a $75 fuel tax, the TCH gets a $100 rebate on the fuel tax. The TCH also gets a $2000 hybrid related after tax rebate (equiv. $1860 before tax). Final price:



LE V6 B $30870

TCH Base $29590



So what do you get on the LE not on the base TCH worth the extra $1300?

• Moonroof
• Lighted vanity mirrors
• Larger trunk
• V6 powertrain
• Full spare

But on the TCH you are getting this not on the LE V6 “B”:

• JBL audio system
• Auto A/C system
• MF display
• Leather steering wheel / shift ***
• Push Button start
• Garage Door Opener
• Smart Key system
• LED tail lights
• VDIM enhancement to VSC
• Hybrid Powertrain

To me, I’d say depending on the options you want, you might actually pay a premium NOT buying the hybrid, then start counting your $$ at the gas station…



Oh, and I just found out tonight that my TCH should arrive next week.

 

Hi Droid. I came to the same conclusion, thought without being as precise. I have this thing about Side airbags, so I compared the Corolla LE B (only corolla with SAB), the LE 4 cylinder Camry but adding a power seat and an ipod
connection, and the base Hybrid.
All costs included,
the Corolla was roughly 30,000,
the LE 4 Camry was 33,000
and Hybrid,after $2,000 rebate: 34,000

I keep wondering what will happen to Prius sales once the word gets out.

On the other hand there is that tiny trunk!

Did you get to test drive the TCH or did you buy on spec? If so, did you notice if there is the same display in the Prius? Someone mentioned elsewhere that the base Hybrid doesnt have it. I sat in one (all I was allowed as it had been presold) but didnt think to look.

 

The prius-like display is only with TCHs with the navigation option. Without, you have to use the multifunction display inside the speedometer. I didn't play with it much during my test drive though, too busy "experiencing the ride".

So yes, I was able to testdrive one. The day I called the dealer if they had one they said their very first one was unloading off the truck, so arranged to come in as soon as the car was ready for a test drive. I liked the idea of the Hybrid before hand, and loved the idea after the test drive. The car they had was silver and we wanted Grey or Blue so we didn't take the one they had and asked for whichever of the two colors they could get first. Although I'm told the car arrives next week, I forgot to ask which of the 2 colors we are getting.