All of the Prius virtues, while improving the driving position, making stability control standard, and adding a larger engine. Although acceleration and the 44 mpg overall fuel economy remained the same, the car offered better crash protection and more available amenities. Typically, the car propels itself on electric power up to about 25 mph, and then the engine starts to provide motivation, as well as recharging the battery. Brake pedal feel is a bit touchy, but easy to get used to. The ride is firm and handling a bit reluctant. Still, the hatchback configuration, upright stance and roomy rear seat make the Prius one of the most sensible choices out there. Throw in bulletproof reliability and low running costs and you have an ideal transportation solution. Just be aware the car is mundane to drive, loud on rough pavement, buzzy when accelerating hard and the interior is rather cheap in look and feel.

The Prius has been the best vehicle I have ever owned. The gas mileage is incredible, we average about 50 mpg and that's with a lot of highway driving. We have had it for 1 year 6 months, have put 62,000 miles on it and so far the only things we have had to replace are the tires and we just did that last week. My husband and I travel a lot for work and we are able to comfortably fit our two kids, both in car seats, ourselves, and everything we need for a week in that car. Also the seats can flip down flat so we can also put our four large breed dogs in there at once (two German shepherds, a great dane, and a hound mix). The car lets you put how much the gas cost each time you fill up so at the end of the month, you can see how much you paid for gas. It drives really smooth and the back up cam shows everything behind you. It also has good take off power. I always thought hundreds were slow to start moving until I had one. The only downside I have had with this car is that it isn't great in icy weather. We got stuck on a hill after it started snowing and had to turn back. Also, if you are parked with the car running, the gas engine will turn on and off which if you have small child, can wake them up. Other than that its been a great car and we plan on getting another one when we can.