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Acceleration
"Slow off the mark, so 10.5-sec 0-60-mph time of test example is slightly misleading.
Picks up speed nicely, copes ably with traffic. Throttle response impressive
between 25-55 mph. Hybrid system usually shuts down gas engine at stoplights
to save fuel, makes near-instant restarts on applying the throttle. There's a
slight shudder as engine cuts in or out; otherwise, the hybrid drive is little-noticed."
Value
"Prius costs more than most other fuel-efficient cars, a price premium that may
take years to offset in fuel savings. And demand outstrips supply, so don't count
on a price break. But Prius trumps the Honda Civic Hybrid for interior room,
acceleration, and handling. The value calculation also must take into account
the hybrid system's emissions benefits, plus Toyota's well-earned reputation
for reliability and resale value. By any standard, this is a pleasant, practical,
and sophisticated car. "
Ride
"Favors control and stability over cushy comfort. Relatively long wheelbase,
supple suspension cope easily with most bumps, though some big moguls induce
a bit of bounce."
Economy
"Prius test cars averaged 42.6-45.2 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving,
36.7 mpg including gas-eating performance runs. Prius uses regular-grade fuel."
Noise
"Modest road and wind noise for the class. Gas engine revs smoothly but is more
gruff than Civic Hybrid's, especially at full throttle."
Comfort - Front
"Generous head room, but taller drivers might want more rearward seat travel.
Seats nothing special for shape or support, but most testers found them set-and-forget
comfortable. Front and rear roof pillars impede visibility to some angles."
Comfort - Rear
"Bench seat just economy-class comfortable. Prius rivals Toyota's roomy midsize
Camry sedan for leg and toe space, but sloped roofline crimps head clearance
for 6-footers. No-strain entry/exit, as in front."
Controls
"Digital speedometer and fuel gauge group with transmission-position indicator
rather far ahead of driver, but are easy enough to read. Multifunction touch
screen in center of dashboard can display fuel-economy readouts, audio settings
and other info, including a real-time gas/electric power-flow animation. The
last is interesting, but can distract. Screen also serves available navigation
system, which is easier to use than some. Alas, screen legibility diminished
by fingerprints, direct sunlight. Available keyless entry with engine on/off
button takes acclimation. So does the odd action of the small shift lever sprouting
from dash. Cabin decor borders on economy-car plain, though construction solid
and materials look durable."
Cargo Room
"Hatchback versatility, with 60/40 split folding rear seatback and 16.1 cu ft
of space with four aboard. But sloped tail and high floor preclude toting tall
items with hatch closed, despite large opening. Useful under-floor storage, plus
roomy console bin and twin dashboard gloveboxes."
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