2001 Chevrolet Prizm: Road Test

Archived Review

2001 Chevrolet Prizm 

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  • MSRP: $14,155 -$16,220
  • Invoice: $13,476 -$14,955

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Our road test for the 2001 Chevrolet Prizm includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Chevrolet Prizm from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Chevrolet Prizm, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Chevrolet Prizm help you decide if a 2001 Chevrolet Prizm is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
4 4 3.7

Manual-transmission models feel frisky; acceleration less satisfying with automatic, which saps lots of engine's life and hunts between gears.

FUEL ECONOMY

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
8 7 6.8

Test Prizms averaged around 25 mpg with automatic transmission, around 28 with manual.

RIDE QUALITY

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
4 4 3.7

Prizm's ride is nicely controlled, and while small bumps are felt, the suspension isn't harsh.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
3 4 4.2

Steering is direct and sharp, better with LSi's larger tires. Stopping power is good, but brake pedal feels rather mushy, especially with optional ABS.

QUIETNESS

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
4 4 3.6

Road noise is noticed, but no more so than in most rivals; engine ruckus is on low side for a subcompact.

CONTROLS

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
7 7 5.5

A radio mounted too low detracts from otherwise good dashboard design. Hard plastic dominates cabin, but Prizms we drove were free of squeaks and rattles.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
4 4 4.3

Front-seaters get supportive buckets and plenty of space. Large door mirrors contribute to excellent outward vision.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
2 2 3.1

Head room is adequate, but the already-tight leg and toe room shrink drastically with the front seats moved more than halfway back.

CARGO ROOM

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
2 2 3.3

Trunk space average for class; opening is large and access is bumper-height. The LSi's split-folding rear seatbacks thoughtfully incorporate a center pass-through.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
4 4 4.6

Prizm makes fine use of its Toyota genes, and Chevy dealers are likely to be discounting their version more than Toyota dealers are willing to deal on Corolla, which has stronger resale value than the functionally identical Prizm.

Total Score

Base, man. LSi, auto. Class Average
42 42 42.8

Total Score: 42

Scores for all Compact Cars

Low Score
26
Average Score
42
High Score
59

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