I was able to spend several hours in a 2009 Toyota Prius, and was somewhat disappointed. Road noise was much louder than expected, and the ride was not as good as you would expect from a $26,000.00 car. It was not as refined as one might hope, considering all of the hype about how quiet the car is. Admittedly, the engine starting up was almost imperceptible , but there was a slight shake as the engine shut down at a light. The car seemed to wallow more than expected with three passengers, perhaps because of the weight of the battery. Performance was acceptable.
My thoughts are that the car, considering how complex it is would be a good choice for those who trade in every few years. For those of us who keep their cars for years, and put well over 100,000 miles on them, the cost consequences of repair of the complex drive line, relays, battery, and controls might make considering a simpler, less complex fuel efficient design, such as the VW Diesel vehicles a more appropriate choice.
Also considered:
About This Reviewer...
Location:
North Haven, Connecticut
Other vehicles owned:
Review submitted:
April 22, 2010
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