Thoughts....
- the last week of the month is a great time to go car shopping. Dealers are trying to make their quota and you might find "incentives" or "discounts". Just remember is a popular time and the color/model may not be in stock at the local dealer.
- there was mention of a Prius..... I love my Prius V. In this day of congestion..... I find hybrids are the best way to deal with slow traffic. The battery allows me to beat fuel economy. I get anything from 45 to 60mpg depending on how I drive. If you don't like the look of Prius.... check out the other Toyota/Lexus hybrids. I find Toyota, GM and Kia hybrids and electrics are the most car like in handling. Ford, BMW, and Smart have very aggressive regenerative braking which makes it uncomfortable to drive.
- Plug-in and plug-in hybrids are great if you have a plug. Older apartments and street parking will be a challenge to charge without a plug. Gas hybrids are better for these drivers.
- If you like to drive your car more than 7 years.... think car parts. There are so many Prii on the road that looking for parts in the junkyard should be easy. Getting a popular high volume model would be one strategy.