Although acceleration and 44 mpg total fuel economy remained the same, the car offered better crash protection and more available benefits. As a rule, the car is driven by electricity to about 25 mph, and then the engine begins to provide motivation as well as recharging the battery. The brake pedal feels a bit of a feeling, but it's easy to get used to. The ride is solid and the behavior is a bit compelled. Still, the hatchback configuration, a vertical stance and a roomy rear seat make the Prius one of the most sensible choice out there. Insert bullet proof reliability and low operating costs, and you have the perfect transport solution.

I purchase this car new from the dealer at the final price of 25k before fees/taxes. I've had this car for a few years now and I have to say right away that it's the best car I've ever owned. If you are looking for a car that is reliable, and good on gas, grab a Prius. Although the Prius is a good car, it's definitely polarizing. It may be fantastic for one person, and crap for the other. From people I talk to, they either have a positive or negative feeling towards the car. There's hardly anyone in between. Let's look at the pros and cons that I've found while owning the car. I'm going to talk about standard knowledge and quirks only an owner would know. First, the pros. The car is excellent on gas. I can average 55+ mpg when driving it in the summer and about 45 mpg while driving it in the winter. The car's aerodynamics allows it to coast for a very long time. Some people may not know, but it is more aerodynamic than a C5 Corvette! It's important to coast as much as you can to optimize fuel efficiency. At first, this may seem like a lot of work but after a while, it becomes fun. It almost feels like a game to try to get the maximum mileage out of your car. In my local area where gas hovers around $3.79, I pay about $24 to fill up the tank and that tank can last me 400 miles. That's a little over a week's worth of gas. Your "mileage" may vary :P The car is surprisingly spacious. The back seats can fold down and you get plenty of room. I can fit my cooler and fishing poles in there without much problems. Sure it's no truck or SUV, but many people are unaware of the amount of room it has. The car is quiet. If you are in highway traffic under 45 mph, the engine will turn off and you will run off the electric motor. The car will hum along while every other car will idle loudly. Let's look at some of the cons. The car is slow. Many people already know this. Of course you don't buy the car to race but for many practical day to day commuting, you may have trouble merging onto the highway. Another con is everyone is a jerk. What do I mean by this? I've owned many cars in the past and for some reason, people tend to cut me off, especially without signaling, when I'm driving my Prius. It's like people think you're a low class citizen. I've been cut off while going 75 mph on the fast lane on a 55 mph speed limit! It's surprising how much effort people go through to pass you. I've had sports cars in the past(300zx) and people would never try to pass me. Why do they do it to Prius owners? Maybe a subconscious reason. Overall, the Prius has been a great car to own. The car is fairly affordable, great on gas, and has plenty of room. The car's style is not to everyone's taste but I like it and I don't think I will get a "normal" car in the future.