Toyota Prius Hatchback (04-09) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 23 February 2011
This is Toyota's latest stab at the 'Hybrid' market - a car that's both petrol and electric. In fact the Prius was good enough to beat more conventional models and win Car of the Year 2005. Hybrid vehicles work by using a petrol engine to charge a battery. At low speeds, the engine will switch to electric mode. The larger car firms expect the use of this fuel technology to grow in years to come, so expect to see more around.
3.5 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Performance

The 1.5 VVT-i has 76bhp and is more powerful than the one fitted to the old Prius. 76bhp sounds feeble for a car of this size, but the electric motor adds an equivalent of about 67bhp, taking it to a more respectable 143bhp. 0-60 comes in 10.9 seconds. Fully electric mode requires a leap of faith - as it's silent, as you don't know whether the car is running or not. When it is moving under electric power, it's near-silent and offers emission-free and smooth performance. It's a useful tool for stop-start town driving. The CVT clutchless gearbox responds well to inputs and adapts to suit hard acceleration and motorway cruising.

3 out of 5

Handling

The Prius uses an electric power steering system which, particularly at lower speeds can feel too light and rather imprecise. The ride is excellent over all surfaces and although not sporty, the Prius reacts well to most inputs by the driver. Body roll is well contained.

  • Moving Exterior Toyota Prius Hatchback (04-09)

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