I am looking to buy my first Prius (YAY!!!) and am having a tough time deciding on new or used. From Diane's posts and Carwoo, it looks as though I could get a 2013 Prius Three with solar panel/moonroof for around 25k -without taxes, etc. Used Toyota Certified (TC) appear to be around 22k, non-TC around 20-21k. How much of a difference in price is do you feel is enough to purchase a used car over a new one? Also, how important to you is it to have the Prius be TC versus not (and why)? I am still trying to figure out the significance of buying TC if the car is around 3 years old or less. Is worth paying 1-2k more for a 2-3 year old car that is TC? (Especially when the Prius is very reliable and long lasting -according to the multiple threads I have read). Your input would greatly be appreciated I am new to the Prius world, but this forum has educated me a ton!!
if you can find something you like with 30-40k miles and full records, ownership, clean car reports, etc. i don't think tc is important. these cars don't need much in the first 100k miles unless they are in an accident. regular oil changes, good lrr tyres, clean filters, maybe a tranny oil change and you're good to go. 20k vs 25 for new? i'd go new, but i can afford it. all the best with your decision!
