I live in San Francisco and about to place my order for a Prius but have a question for the group.<br><br>How does the car preform on steep hills loaded with the family and a trunk full of groceries?

Well, Cruiser, we anxiously await your report; but, in the meantime, I can tell you my experience driving solo up a sometimes 7% grade for about 4 miles... and the car performed as nicely as an average midsize car would... no struggle, no groaning, I had all the power I called for.

I haven't driven in SF, but I have taken my Prius up Marin Ave in Berkeley (with two kids) which is a long steep grade similar to many of the streets of SF. The Prius has plenty of power for climbing. In fact, It's much easier to drive up these steep inclines than most cars I've driven. I think the torque from the electric motor has something to do with it.<br><br>Actually, a lot of my daily driving takes me through the hilly areas of Berkeley and El Cerrito and the Prius feels right at home here. If feels very confident climbing hills and you don't have to hunt for the right gear. I have to admit, however, that this is my first automatic, other than an old Jaguar XJ6 that I drove for a year. The Jag was a real gas hog and did not like climbing hills at all.<br><br>One big advantage to the Prius on hills is its ability to start climbing from a dead stop. I've even use the gas pedal to keep the car momentarily perched at an uphill stop without moving. It makes for a less stressful drive on those uphill climbs.<br><br>George

I live in San Carlos and go to San Francisco regularly with my Prius. The Prius is superior to conventional vehicles on steep hills for two reasons: Firstly, the CVT provides smooth acceleration (no jerky stalls, etc.); and, secondly the electric motor will not stall. If your concern is power, don't be concerned. There is plently of power. My Prius is very zippy up and down San Francisco hills.

I've had my Prius for about six months now, and have been driving the San Francisco hills for the whole time. Family of five, three big people, cello and French horn in the trunk, no problem.<br><br>If you push on the gas pedal, it can go up hills fast.