If you want cheap, go for a used Prius.
8 year/100,000 mile warranty on the hybrid system... If you find a 2001 Prius, or a high mileage Prius, expect the prices to be lower to account for any warranty concerns (besides it just being an older, well-used vehicle). Even still, used Prius hold their value very well in the US... Check prices on kbb.com , but if you are looking for used check the usual sources of cars.com, autotrader.com, craigslist.org, etc.
If you are looking for a new car, use the "Build Your Prius" link on
http://www.toyota.com/prius-hybrid/ to get an idea of what the MSRP of the available packages in your area are. Do not pay higher than this amount. Use the contact information to request quotes from several local dealers, and play their prices off of each other to get a deal on a new Prius. (The internet sales department often has better rates than if you walked in off the street...)
Be aware that the newly redesigned 2010 Prius is coming out in late spring 2009, so you may be able to get a deal on any holdover new 2009 Prius (what will be the older model) at that time.
If you need more information about a Prius, try asking some owners:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/toyota-prius/
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Prius-2G/
http://www.priusonline.com/
http://priuschat.com/
How much does a toyota prius cost?
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