Toyota Prius Hatchback (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The third Toyota Prius may not look that different from its predecessor but thanks to several key improvements it's actually a big leap forward. Like before it's a hybrid, so uses a conventional petrol engine alongside an electric motor, but it is now a realistic alternative to low-emission diesel cars when it comes to performance and driving. There's just one gearbox - an automatic CVT - but it has seamless changes while the 1.8-litre engine and electric motor deliver responsive performance. It's cleaner and more powerful than the previous Prius while in town it can operate purely in electric mode, using no fuel and with zero emissions. Unlike before, if you choose a Prius you don't have to make sacrifices in performance for the sake of owning a hybrid.
4 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Equipment

There are three trim levels - T3, T4 and T Spirit - and all are well equipped. The base model comes with a head-up display, seven airbags, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry (driver's door) and start, electric windows, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps and a CD stereo. The T4 adds 17-inch wheels, keyless entry for all doors, cruise control, automatic wipers, Bluetooth and an upgraded stereo. Top of the range T Spirit models are the most popular and come with a Navigation Pack that includes a hard drive sat nav system, a music server, intelligent park assist and a rear camera. T Spirit owners can also choose the optional Solar Pack but it requires the fitting of 15-inch alloy wheels. Leather seats are optional on all models as is metallic paint. There's also a Tech Pack available which includes LED headlights and tail lights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and water repellent window glass.

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Compare Equipment

Trim

Equipment

Key:

Standard item

Optional item

  • 3x3 point rear seat belts
  • ABS
  • Air conditioning
  • Alarm
  • Alloy wheels
  • Audio remote
  • Body coloured bumpers
  • CD
  • CD Multichanger
  • Climate control
  • Cloth seat trim
  • Cruise control
  • Driver`s airbag
  • Electric mirrors
  • Folding rear seats
  • Front electric windows
  • Front fog lights
  • Headlight washers
  • Heated mirrors
  • Heated seats
  • Height adjustable drivers seat
  • Isofix child seat anchor points
  • Leather seat trim
  • Lumbar support
  • Parking sensors
  • PAS
  • Passenger`s airbag
  • Rear electric windows
  • Remote locking
  • Sat Nav
  • Side airbags
  • Space saver spare wheel
  • Steering wheel rake adjustment
  • Steering wheel reach adjustment
  • Telephone
  • Traction control
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