what would you do? (Ideas for higher MPG $6k vehicle than a Kia Sportage?)

[vao]

UPDATE: I, through using basic tips, just got a tank at 24.09mpg! My scangauge should be arriving soon (hint hint ecomod shipping, get on it!), and hopefully I can get it up to 25- 3 tanks at 25 and I achieve my first goal. Don't worry, still working on figuring out what vehicle I want to replace this with- just making the best of a bad situation.

[Fat Charlie]

Originally Posted by vao

Don't worry, still working on figuring out what vehicle I want to replace this with- just making the best of a bad situation.

That's the name of the game, my friend. You're doing great!

[vao]

I appreciate everyones input!

I am happy to report....I hit my first goal tank! 27.04 mpg, my first goal is 3 tanks at 25mpg+!

Scangauge helps a lot, by reprogramming me. Not only am I saving money and the world, I also arrive at work more relaxed, avoid traffic by taking the long way around, and just generally feeling 'better'.

...now, if I could only find a decent bicycle for under $100...

[Daox]

Try feecycle.org.

[vao]

Originally Posted by Daox

Try feecycle.org.

Unfortunately the closest chapter to me is over an hour away. Which makes me nervous, but free is free!

Anyone have tips on getting up off their lazy a$$es and getting on a bike? Im out of shape and short on time, so if anyone has some suggestions on how to 'get back on the horse' (havent ridden a bicycle since...12? 13?) I would definitely appreciate it.

Don't tell me 'just do it'. I get that its simple.

[MetroMPG]

19 mpg to 27 mpg. Nice work.

[vao]

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

19 mpg to 27 mpg. Nice work.

Thanks metro!

[nimblemotors]

I just missed buying another 1st gen prius for $1700 today (sold when I called) it needed a new transmission ($500), probably overheated main motor that is typical problem (same issue with the other one I bought for $1500).
These deals are not common, but they do show up once in a while.

Originally Posted by vao

RESEARCH:
These are some local 2nd gen prius prices for my area: (I understand mileage isn't the end all/be all of determining vehicle quality, I just listed it for quick reference)

2007/99,700mi/$10,750 obo
2007/43,000mi/$16,000
2005/80,000mi/$7,400 obo
2005/101,000mi/$8,200
2007/112,000mi/$8,800
2007/104,000mi/$9,800

Making the 2nd gen Prius just out of reach of my (incredibly strapped) budget.

As for the Vibe/Matrix?
Vibe-
2004/AWD/Auto/119,000mi/$6,000
2006/FWD/Man/153,000mi/$6,500
2005/FWD/Auto/51,000mi/$9,100
2009/FWD/Auto/54,000mi/$8,500
2003/AWD/Auto/92,000mi/$6,500
Matrix-
2006/FWD/Auto/39,000mi/$10,500
2009/AWD/Auto/64,500mi/$14,500
2007/FWD/Auto/60,000mi/$10,600
2005/AWD/Auto/117,000mi/$7,500 obo
2003/FWD/Man/133,000mi/$3,750 (god awful looking)
2009/AWD/Auto/15,000mi/$11,900

So maybe I can get away with a smaller vehicle- it seems the ones comparable in size to mine are out of reach-realistically? I need something to carry 4-5 suitcases and possibly one person. A corolla-sized vehicle would be fine, really, as the guy whose job I took used to drive one and he made it work fine. (Don't suggest a Corolla, I hate them).

[vao]

Well the one month mark has passed, and this may be a dead thread but-
I figured out that I drive about 2,450mi per month, and it's about 60 city 40 highway.
I peaked at 27mpg, but am averaging 22-24, with the scangauge.
Unfortunately certain speeds must be maintained, and alternative roads add an extra 10miles to my commute (eliminating C/B:r).

[MetroMPG]

What's changed? Sounds like you've lost that loving feeling:

Scangauge helps a lot, by reprogramming me. Not only am I saving money and the world, I also arrive at work more relaxed, avoid traffic by taking the long way around, and just generally feeling 'better'.

Your last fill was your 3rd highest, yet you call it mediocre. I smell frustration.

Time to start shopping for a Matrix/Vibe?