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Review: 2008 Prius
The most popular hybrid in America is the Toyota Prius, and with sales increasing a reported 60% in 2007, it is likely to stay that way. However, it is not the only hybrid on the market. If you are in looking to buy a hybrid there are many different models from a variety of manufacturers available. Before you jump into the the world of hybrids, lets take a look at the newest edition of America’s most popular hybrid vehicle.
The Toyota Prius is a four-door, five passenger vehicle. The size and interior roominess is comparable to other mid-size sedans, whether they have hybrid or standard, full-fuel, engines. It features a hatchback that provides some additional rear storage and accessibility. The 2008 Prius is available in three different models, differentiated by their included base amenities. The standard model offers touchscreen controls, keyless entry, push-button ignition, fully powered accessories, and stereo with six speakers and a CD player.
The engine of the Prius is what sets it apart from many other cars. It features a 1.5 liter gasoline engine and two electric motors. One motor works driving the wheels while the other is used solely for generating power to recharge the batteries. The Prius is still the most efficient hybrid on the market and the 2008 model claims to achieve 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. Note that the EPA changed its process for rating fuel economy in 2008 and as a result the efficiency numbers of all hybrids have come down.
The engine provides a combined total of 100 horsepower. Hybrids offer this, usually higher, combined power rating because their fuel engines and electric motors work together, one increasing output when the other’s performance decreases. Though the 2008 Prius has been tested going zero to 60 in less than 11 seconds, the variable transmission is smooth and provides an easy transition when accelerating and decelerating.
The Prius comes standard with full front and side impact airbags and anti-lock brakes. In government and independent safety tests the Prius earned close to the highest scores possible.
The dashboard has inherited the design of previous models and features a large center touchscreen control, digital gauges, adjustable steering wheel, and adjustable seats. Some people, however, have trouble finding a comfortable driving position because the seats do not have height adjustments and the steering wheel adjustment is limited. Some have also complained that the quality of the dashboard plastics has gone down in the 2008 Prius, though the complaint is an admittedly small one.
The driving is just as smooth as previous models and, once adjusted to the small differences between driving a hybrid compared to a standard fuel car, is easy and effortless. Some drivers have trouble adjusting to the keyless entry system, which utilizes a hands-free sensor attached to the driver’s key ring and the pushbutton ignition. This is different than the keyed door locks and ignitions of most cars and does take a little getting used to.
In 2008 a standard model was introduced, which also lacks some other features like cruise control and heated mirrors, but features a $1,400 reduction in base price.
Overall, the Toyota Prius remains an excellent choice, not only for people looking to buy a hybrid, but anyone looking for a new car. And, at under $20,000 it is a great value as well.
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