Toyota Prius 1.5 VVTi
The Toyota Prius Hybrid in its current ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ form with significant body changes has been available since 2003. Hollywood stars and politicians are amongst the Prius owners proud to show off their eco-friendly credentials and proves that you don’t have to compromise on practicality or fashionable looks to achieve economy or eco-friendliness.
The Prius is not a cheap car to buy, prices start from £17,780 for the T3 Hybrid and go up to £20,280 for the T Spirit Hybrid. All are powered by the same 1.5 litre 76bhp petrol engine along the Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The Prius combines the low speed torque of an electric motor (up to 22mph) with the high speed efficiency of a combustion engine. 0-60mph is therefore reached in 10.9 seconds thanks to the assistance of the high torque 50kW electric motor.
Economy is quoted as an impressive 65.7mpg although this is slightly less in the real world, however the economy is still better than most diesels of a similar size and even some superminis. Carbon dioxide emissions are a low 104g/km which is the Prius’s party piece. This means low company car tax bills and exemption from London’s congestion charge.
The Prius has a five star NCAP safety rating which is the highest possible result helped by its eight standard fitted airbags and curtain bags and a rigid design. The build quality, reliability and dealer service are what you would expect from Toyota; all very good. In addition to the three year warranty, Toyota guarantees the hybrid system for 8years/100,000 miles meaning resale value should be more competitive than most hybrids.
The entry-level T3 is well equipped. The T4 adds a 6-CD changer, foglights and cruise control. The range topping T Spirit has a DVD-based sat-nav system with voice recognition and Bluetooth. It is roomy and comfortable. Three adults should be reasonably comfortable in the back however space is short is in the boot due to the battery packs.
There are a limited choice of hybrids available in the UK compared to the US as they still only make up a small proportion of sales. The Toyota Prius though is on the road to becoming a mainstream family cars that demands few compromises, and is extremely cheap to fill up, has super low emissions and an eco-friendly image.
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Notes
ECU’s software recall on cars built between August 2003 and November 2004.
2006 facelift including new front grille and revisions to head and taillights. Soft-touch materials feature inside and a new leather interior is on offer.
Statistics
CO2 emissions: 104g/km
MPG Combined: 65.7 mpg
Engine: 1497cc Petrol / Electric Motor
Transmission : 4 Speed Auto
BHP/Torque: 76/115 NM
Kerb Weight: 1300 kg
NCAP: 5-Star
Top Speed: 106 MPH
0-62 MPH: 10.9 secs
Insurance Group: 8
Warranty: 96 months / 100k miles on Hybrid system
