Toyota Prius Review

Customer Test Drive

14 of 18

2004 Toyota Prius

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Ratings

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Comments
Favorite feature:	Smart Start/Smart Entry - no keys needed to lock/unlock/start this vehicle!
Least favorite feature:	The driver's seat - a little more legroom and more than the forward/back/recline options
Advice to buyer:	Packages #6,7 are best if you don't need NAV, otherwise go for #9. No color preference gets quicker delivery!
Detailed review:	First off, the 2004 Prius bears no physical resemblance to its predecessors and outperforms last year's model significantly. The 2004 liftback is the first year model using Toyota's re-engineered THS II (Toyota Hybrid System). With a 0 to 60 of 10.1 seconds, you won't blow away any racing enthusiasts next to you at the stoplight, but you will surely outrun them in the long haul. I've put 1500 miles on this vehicle in five weeks time, have averaged 52.0 mpg with combined city/highway driving, and have pumped a grand total of 22 gallons thus far ($50 worth at Bay Area pricing), compared to my previous $200/month budget. The BC#9 package includes all the high-tech toys including Bluetooth phone, DVD NAV system, and Smart-Entry/Smart-Start system, which allows you to unlock and start the car without the need for a key, thanks to a transceiver inside the alarm fob. The Energy Monitor display quickly becomes a on-going game to see how 'efficiently' you can drive this car without using too much fuel. The animated energy 'flow' arrows actually teach you how to jockey the gas pedal to maximize your mileage. Interior space is excellent with more than enough backseat room, as well as lots of cargo space. It's also well-fitted for a carseat and the prerequisite baggage that parents with small children will require and appreciate. The front seat, however, is manual only and could use another inch or two for those of us over 6'. If you're set on owning a hybrid, this is the clear winner for 2004 in terms of price and performance. If you want some added mileage and cleaner air, but feel you really can't give up acceleration and power, then you may wish to wait for the SUV models due out for 2005.
Also considered:	2004 Honda Accord 2004 Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan
Vehicle purchased:	2004 Toyota Prius


About This Reviewer...
Name:	Mark Boileau
Email address:	markrboileau@yahoo.com
Location:	Concord, California
Other vehicles owned:	2000 Dodge Ram 2004 Honda Civic
Review submitted:	March 18, 2004

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