Prius Remains the Coolest Hybrid on the Block

2008 Toyota Prius Touring

model as tested $28,705

Test Drove 8/28/2008 – 9/11/2008
reviewed by Sara Lacey

I can’t think of any car in recent memory that’s shouldered so many stereotypes and expectations as the Toyota Prius, so I was intrigued to drive the Prius and see what all of the hullabaloo was about.
I was interested to see how the Prius differed from the other hybrids I’ve driven. It was definitively a Prius; I loved the look and feel of the interior. While I didn’t test whether the Prius handled a McCain bumper sticker any differently than an Obama sticker, I really don’t think there’d have been a difference in the car’s performance.

The Prius exceeded my expectations on the road. I merged onto the highway with plenty of power, once again putting the “hybrids-are-slow” smear campaign to rest. Shifting was smooth due to the continuously variable automatic transmission, and the quiet electric drive system contributed to the Prius’ car-of-the-future feel, which made the driving experience so enjoyable and different. Despite its inability to hover, the Prius should be respected as the innovative futuremobile that it is.

My point is this: Whatever political or environmental leanings you have, the Prius is cool. It’s a fun car to drive, and it drives differently than other hybrids I’ve tested. And if you write off the Pious, er…Prius due to any affiliations you may or may not have, you’re missing out.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT
Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore):  Ample
Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore):  Fair-Ample

SENSE AND STYLE
Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent):    Great
Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On):  Groove On

Read about Exterior Features

shopping around: At cars.com

• Side-by-Side Comparison
• Auto Loan Calculator

• Build your own
• Check for Rebates

Take the Next Steps at Cars.com

Find This Car Near You Research This Car

you might: Also Like