Rants and Raves
TOM ADAMS
The only thing entertaining about this car is the energy display screen. It's fun to watch how the Hybrid Synergy System works and how many miles per gallon you're getting. I made a game of trying to keep it in the single digits for as long as possible.
Otherwise, there's not much happening here. The exterior is bland and subservient to aerodynamic design. Without the hybrid badge, people would think I'm simply driving an ugly car. Inside is the same: plain, yet strange. Even the front cup holders are weird. It seems low-rent compared to other Toyotas I've known. The ride is stiff and unremarkable. Without the customary engine noise, you are able to hear more road noise. Still, the Prius is well insulated from it. No revving in neutral, no squeals at launch, very little noise upon acceleration. And no thrust either. The hybrid elements conspire to remove even the minor fun one might glean from high-mileage—but fully gasoline dependent—econoboxes such as a Chevy Aveo or Hyundai Accent. Hybrid Synergy Drive means saving gas, not driving excitement.
DAVE VANDERWERP
I've often wondered why many Prius drivers in southern California prominently display their window sticker (showing EPA fuel economy ratings of 60 mpg city and 51 highway). Now I know why: there's not really anything else to brag about when you drive a Prius.
Sure, I give Toyota credit for creating an interesting-looking and spacious midsize hybrid car and its subsequent rise to near-icon status, but the Prius is not fun to drive. Anyone like numb steering, nonlinear brakes, and feeble acceleration? How about extra-sensitive traction control? And nothing but droning from the engine bay.
Granted, it works—I averaged 42 mpg—but after arriving at the office I somehow felt the need to cleanse myself by driving the new, 600-hp Viper.
Download this car's window sticker for pricing information.
