A dashboard display presents an ever-changing visual depiction as to how Toyota Prius distributes its power: electricity, gasoline, or a combination. The hybrid car utilizes an all-aluminum 1.5-liter, 58 horsepower 4-cylinder engine as well as a permanent-magnet electric drive motor. What’s all that mean in terms of mileage? Expect 45 miles per gallon in city driving and 52 miles per gallon highway – all with a car designated as a super ultra low emission vehicle. Because of the car’s regenerative braking system, when Prius is coasting or when the brakes are applied, the motor functions as a generator to capture kinetic energy and transform that to useable electricity for recharging the batteries.

Similar to the endless mileage meter, the standard, non-stingy equipment list includes air conditioning, power windows/locks/doors, AM/FM/cassette stereo system with four speakers, rear spoiler, anti-lock brakes, rear window defogger, front cupholder, driver and passenger airbags, and center console storage box. The 5-passenger compact sedan was styled at Calty Design Research, Toyota’s Southern California studio. Prius, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, has an 8-year/100,000 mile battery and hybrid system warranty as well as a free 24-hour roadside assistance and basic maintenance for three years. MSRP is $19,995.
auto reviews, automotive reviews, gmc, suzuki, honda, chrysler, chevrolet, ford, oldsmobile, buick, pontiac, vw, lexus, mercedes benz, bmw, jeep, kia, saturn, dodge, chevy, cars, daimlerchrysler, gm, cadillac