The Toyota Prius first came out in 1997, sporting a 100bhp hybrid powertrain with its 1.5-litre engine and an economy of 120g/km CO2 emissions. Several generations were released after, but the model only emerged as a popular buy in 2003. Although its current shape is not far from its predecessor, the latest Prius boasts of a more efficient fuel economy at 89g/km, a 1.8-litre engine, and better electric propulsion. Given its size and fuel economy, the Prius is the only car able to achieve the most minimal emissions of greenhouse gas.

Pros

The Toyota Prius has lots to boast about. Its cabin provides ample space for a five-door hatchback and fits well into its sleek, streamline exterior. The rest of the exterior treats the eyes to vast edifices sporting chrome fins and gorgeous detailing. The separate rear window is found under the rear spoiler, and the 17-inch alloy wheels come as a standard.

The Plug-n variant has to be the Prius’ greatest upgrade. The Plug-in’s EV aspect is much more advanced compared to the 1.8-litre engine and its hybrid system. The batteries have gone from nickel metal to lithium ion, with the latter providing faster recharge time, higher energy density, and a wider all-electric range. The EV range goes up to 15.5 miles in 51mph—a huge speed increase from the 31mph in 1.2miles.

Although the Prius uses plastics with its faux leather textures, the interior manages to make these materials work as a futuristic design. The cabin’s form follows suit with its concept-car dashboard, a digital speedometer sporting pale green displays, and a console located conveniently between the centre armrest-slash-storage box and main fascia’s sweep. The centre console itself contains handy features such as the sat-nav, air-conditioning controls, stereo’s touch-screen control panel, and the Prius’ parameters. Three buttons for choosing from EV, Power, and Eco modes and the transmission selector are conveniently located below the console. All these can be enjoyed on the comfortable front seats. Comfort continues at the rear, where leg room is ample and even more spacious than big saloon vehicles. The sloping roofline doesn’t get in the way of the area’s capacity.

Cons

Although the front seats offer enough comfort, there is less movement for the legs compared to the rear seat area. The audio system comes off as rather overwhelming and requires specific controls so that the drivers and passengers don’t get too distracted by the sound.

Ride and handling are big issues with the Toyota Prius. Bumpy surfaces are not handled well, as the ride becomes crashy especially for those preferring bigger wheels. Steering is not as responsive as it should, giving little feedback. Handling makes up with safety but does little to impress. The Prius only offers a consisten performance when going about town.

Noise is another minor issue. Expect total quiet when running only on battery power, but cruising and acceleration result in droning, road, and wind noise. This could be distracting for drivers who need focus as they gain their desired velocity. Otherwise, the Prius does its job on a normal drive. 

The Toyota Prius is a hybrid electric vehicle produced and released by Toyota. The EPA has dubbed the Prius one of the United States’ cleanest cars sold on the commercial market. The Prius debuted in Japan in 1997 and was the first mass marketed and produced hybrid car. The vehicle made its worldwide debut in 2000. The Prius started as a compact car from 1997 to 2003 then moved to a mid-sized hatchback model from 2003 to present.

The Prius’ first model was the NHW10 and was marketed with the Camry and Corolla. The first generation Prius had electric power steering and air conditioning. The release of the Toyota Prius into the US market made it the second hybrid car available after the Honda Insight.

The second generation Prius moved from the compact car design to the mid-sized hatchback to create more leg and luggage room for passengers. The car was also the very first hybrid car to utilize an all electric A/C compressor. The second generation Prius also used a NiMH battery which made it more efficient compared to its predecessor.

The third generation Prius was revamped to provide users with more power and efficiency. The third generation Prius utilized a 1.8-liter engine that produces 98 horse power. The Prius also used an electric water pump that makes it more fuel efficient.