Worst Deal of the Month: 2010 Toyota Prius

This is typically when demand is at its highest and supply is very limited. In this type of environment, many dealers take advantage of the situation and start price gouging their customers.

The "Cash for Clunkers" program depleted inventories of high mpg cars, especially the 2010 Prius. Inventory was already low before the government program, now it's ridiculous.

We're hearing reports that some Toyota dealers are charging markups of up to $10,000 on the 2010 Toyota Prius.

We don't understand why someone buying a $26,000 car would agree to a 40% markup, but you'd be surprised how uninformed some buyers are. Many car shoppers don't understand the law of supply and demand. If they wait until next year, after demand has died down and supply increased, they're certain to get a much better price on the vehicle.

If you're hard-headed and want to buy a 2010 Prius no matter how bad you'll get ripped off, our recommendation is to get in touch with AT LEAST 10 dealers. Have them work against each other to offer you the best price. You may be able to get one around MSRP if you're lucky.