Summary:
Out of all of the Hybrids on the market today, the Toyota Prius is #1 among reviewers and customers. The Prius remains the undisputed best among hybrid cars, say reviews, with an electric motor assisted by a gasoline engine. At city-driving speeds, the electric motor operates alone, and the gas engine kicks in at higher speeds. Reviews say the Toyota Prius hybrid car has a roomier interior than the competing Honda Civic Hybrid. The hatchback-only Prius has a distinctive look that many reviews say makes it stand out from the economy-car pack. It is a five-passenger four-door hatchback that teams a 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 110 hp.
This hybrid appeals both to environmentalists and people who are concerned with fuel economy. While it gets gas mileage comparable with that of a subcompact, it has the interior capacity of a mid-size car. It also has a unique look.
Engine:
The Prius’ engine has 76 hp, 1.5 liter I-4; available in 2-speed CVT transmission. The Prius differs from Honda’s hybrids in that electric power is dominant in its power train. An electric motor can power the Prius until it reaches about 12 mph. At that point, the gasoline engine takes over in a virtually seamless transition. The electric motor kicks in when needed to furnish additional power. When the car is stopped or coasting, the gasoline engine can turn itself off. During that slowdown period, the battery pack recharges; the Prius never needs to be plugged in to a power source.
MPG:
60 miles per gallon city; 51 miles per gallon highway
Interior:
Up to five people fit inside the Prius, and they’re likely to enjoy more elbowroom than in the original model. Standard equipment includes electric-inverter automatic air conditioning, a CD stereo, and power windows, locks and mirrors. Options include leather seats, a rearview camera, keyless start and an upgraded stereo with a mini-jack port for connecting portable music players. Cargo volume totals 16.1 cubic feet.
Exterior:
More aerodynamically styled than its predecessor, the current, Prius is one of the most aerodynamic production vehicles available. Front and rear lighting units have been revised for 2006. Fifteen-inch alloy wheels are standard. Touring Editions upgrade to 16-inch wheels. They also receive a European-tuned suspension, xenon headlamps, a rear spoiler and fog lamps.
Safety Features:
Antilock brakes, traction control, side-impact airbags for the front seats and two-row side curtain airbags are standard. An electronic stability system is optional. Standard safety features include: 4-wheel ABS; child seat lower anchorage; pretension; rear center lap/shoulder belt; front head airbag; trunk release; traction control; front adjustable upper belt; energy management feature; advanced or airbag features and rear seat head restraint.
Warranty:
Basic warranty is 3 years, 36,000 miles.
