2007 Toyota Prius Review

Toyota ’s once-frumpy hybrid sedan is becoming less and less of a compromise between great mileage and driving fun with each passing year. For 2007, Toyota is offering a Touring package that includes 16-inch wheels and a “European-tuned” suspension, along with exterior cues such as a rear spoiler, fog lamps, and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights. Also, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags are now standard. As previously, the 2007 Prius is propelled by a tandem gas-electric powertrain that can operate in pure electric mode at low speeds and while the vehicle is idling. The gas-burning 1.5-liter engine gets boosted by the electric motors when extra power is needed for passing. The Prius is rated by the EPA as being capable of achieving as much as 60 mpg in city driving (51 mpg on the highway). A continuously variable automatic transmission is standard and is operated via a small joystick mounted on the dashboard. The Prius is an almost mid-size vehicle that offers exceptional roominess compared with other cars in its class. It is also a high-tech tour de force, with a large electronic display that shows from which source or sources the vehicle is currently drawing power. Anti-lock brakes, power windows, locks and mirrors, and an electrically operated air conditioning system are standard — with a keyless entry and startup feature among the Prius’ optional features.