2008 Toyota Prius: Road Test

ACCELERATION

Slow movement away from a stop accounts for middling 10.5 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Prius picks up speed nicely, though, and copes reasonably well with traffic. Throttle response is best between 25-55 mph. The hybrid system usually shuts down the gas engine at stoplights to save fuel and makes near-instant restarts on applying the throttle. There's a slight shudder as the gas engine cuts in or out, and the powertrain is prone to subtle but annoying surging and bogging in cruising conditions.

RIDE QUALITY

Base versions favor control and stability over cushy comfort. A relatively long wheelbase copes easily with most bumps, though some big moguls induce a bit of bounce. There's little noticeable difference in ride quality with Touring model's firmer suspension.

QUIETNESS

Road and wind noise are modest for the class. The gas engine revs smoothly but is more gruff than the Honda Civic Hybrid's, especially at full throttle.

DETAILS

Prius' cabin has its own hi-tech look but materials are nothing special. Assembly quality on our test cars has been good, though. Of particular annoyance is the shrill backup warning chime.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

The bench seat is just economy-class comfortable. Prius rivals Toyota's roomy Camry sedan for leg and toe space, but the sloped roofline crimps head clearance for six-footers. As in the front, entry and exit are no-hassle affairs.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Prius costs significantly more than most other fuel-efficient cars, a price premium that will likely take years to offset in fuel savings. Among its deficits are lackluster acceleration and a needlessly complicated control layout. Fuel economy is outstanding, however, and cargo and passenger space exceeds that of many competitors.