2002 Toyota Prius: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Toyota's hybrid-power subcompact now offers optional front side airbags, a navigation system, and cruise control. Prius seats five and is powered by both a 4-cyl gasoline engine and an electric motor. The two automatically work in tandem or separately, depending on power needs. Standard are a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), ABS, and air conditioning. The batteries are in effect kept charged by the gas engine, so Prius doesn't need plug-in charging. The warranty includes 8-year/100,000-mi. powertrain coverage and roadside assistance. Similar in concept are Honda's two hybrid-powered models: the Insight--a smaller, 2-seat hatchback--and the recently added Civic Hybrid sedan, both of which offer manual transmission or CVT automatic.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is as good as ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. We also love almost everything about the Ford Focus, but were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less.

Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Toyota Echo, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege.