hello

[Trena]

just stopping in to say 'hello' as requested when signing up. considering trading in my toy prius for a smart4two to save some $$ with little change in mileage.

will have to check one out in person and do some reading on here, of course, before deciding. anyone else trade a prius for a smart?

[Dave777]

Welcome Trena,

Nice to have you here. If you already own a Prius, you won't save much, if anything at all, by buying a smart. The Prius gets better mileage and is a standout in reliability.

On the other hand, if you're looking for something not quite as boring as a Prius, then get your name on the reservation list.

Good luck.

[Trena]

Well, I was hoping to get a good deal selling on the prius, as i got the highest level ($28,000) package on it. I don't use most of the high-end features--they work poorly. I would have been better off with aftermarket features. (e.g. bluetooth phone, navigation) I love the prius otherwise, but the mileage is really 40-49 mpg, as the new epa estimates state, depending greatly on weight carried, a/c use, and driving style. the tires suck, and were quickly replaced by some with a lot more traction, but of course i lost 2-3 mpg due to higher rolling resistance.

the only thing that stands out as a con for the smart is the warranty--worst i've ever heard of! how's the extended warranty deals? and i've read only a bit on this forum, but it is only usa owners so far, with <3000 miles on their smarts. any info on reliability?

[SunDiego]

I got the extended warranty just for peace of mind. I paid $995, and I believe that extends it 5 years (not exactly sure).

[NCC1701]

I've read on this forum where a few members have racked up 9-10K miles.
I haven't purchased the extended warranty yet. I understand I can do so at any time before the factory warranty runs out. I'm also considering warrantydirect.com.

But, I put down my $99 reservation money on another smart the day I took delivery on my car. So, I might not go ahead with any extended warranty, but get another smart in a couple years. There are some options I'd like which aren't offered on the 2008 model.