I went to the Denver Auto Show this past weekend, and it was very interesting to see the number of people looking at the different cars. The Cadillac stand, which was huge, was almost deserted. Seriously, when we walked by there was ONE car with people looking at it, and the others were being ignored.
The Honda stand had a big display about the HAH with moderate attention, and also moderate attention paid to the HCH. I think maybe the problem there is that they don't look all that much different from the regular Hondas. There was no Insight...
But the Prius stand was swamped. Even the Toyota auto show bimbos said they were impressed by the interest in these cars. There seem to be three things that make it attractive. First, that 60 mpg city EPA estimate is very seductive. Second, the slightly oddball looks mean you can "make a statement" with your neighbors. Third, it has a LOT of room inside. With the high rear roof and the fully-folding seats, it's almost like a station wagon.
It's easy to see why people are attracted to the Prius...