Prius mileage
[winter time]

I came across your web site on the Toyota Prius via Google. Thanks for putting up such a detailed site! I live in Chicago and bought mine this summer. I was happy getting a combined city/highway mileage of 44 mpg or so. For the past few weeks, when it has been below 20 degrees, particularly when it has been closer to 10 degrees, I've seen the mileage meter plunge to 29 or 30 mpg in the city. At 10 degrees, the heater runs most of the time, turning the Prius into a mostly gas powered car. I suppose that accounts for the low mileage.

Unlike you, I don't live near any hills. But I have LOTS of stop and go traffic, and idling while stuck in traffic. Contrary to the EPA, this really kills mileage. Still, like you, I love the car. I used to have a Volvo which would get stuck in the snow in the alley while backing into my garage. The Prius zips right in with no problem. And, it's wonderful for merging on on ramps and passing.

Wow. I thought Volvos were meant to NOT get stuck in snow! Or is that Saabs? More to the point, the "Windy City" gets snow? Now that I think of it, I guess I've never been to Chicago during the winter. (That can't be true over the last 25+ years.) I usually attend a trade show in March; occasionally one in early September.

Anyway, Ben, thanks for writing. I'm noticing my gas mileage is way down these days. I'm wondering if it's because (a) I had the tires replaced and (b) I have *not* overinflated these tires... versus the weather. But, hey, 44+ mpg, not wasting gas (versus other cars), low emissions: Still a great idea!