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Posted May, 2007

Road Test: 2007 Toyota Prius

By Thomas E. Bonsall

The 2007 edition of the Prius, Toyota's best-known hybrid, is little changed from the 2006 model. We did an extensive review of that car last year, and you can read all about it here. In particular, we delved into the whole issue of hybrid technology and whether it's all it's cracked up to be (it isn't), whether it's cost effective (not a prayer), etc. I don't really feel like going through all that again, so if you're interested that subject, read the 2006 review.

It is ironic that the only thing the Prius does poorly is the main reason people buy it: the supposed extraordinary fuel economy. The EPA numbers are ridiculous: 60 mpg city/51 mpg highway, with a combined city/highway rating of 55 mpg. We got 37 on the 2006 press car we tested and didn't even bother checking this year. You can get that figure or something close to it from any number of non-hybrid economy sedans, including more than one model from Toyota itself — and for a lot less money. Suffice it to say, if you buy a Prius for the gas mileage, your going to be very dissappointed.

One thing that struck us about our 2007 test car, though, was how pleasant it was to drive. Gas mileage issues aside, the Prius is a very nice car. Power from the 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine is more than adequate for urban driving. It handles well, too. The passenger cabin is surprisingly roomy even in the rear, the seats are great, and four full-grown adults can travel in real comfort — five if the three in the back seat are on intimate terms or want to be.

Our test car carried a base price of $22,175. To that was added nearly $3,000 worth of options for a final total (including destination charges) of $25,598. The main option was the evocatively named "Package #3" (is it any relation to Red Dye #4?).It consisted of a JBL sound system with all the bells and whistles, vehicle stability control, a back-up camera, the Smart Key System, the Anti-Theft System, and the auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with HomeLink. Probably worth it. We especially loved the back-up camera. It appears on the nav screen and shows you exactly where you're going when in reverse. A wonderful assist for parallel parking.

In sum, while we enjoyed our test cycle with the Prius, for reasons we amply stated in the 2006 review, we cannot recommend it. If, on the other hand, you're the type who is able and willing to waste thousands of dollars to dupe yourself into believing you're saving the planet by driving a hybrid, Godspeed. You may be wasting your money, but at least you'll be driving a nice car. R&D