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2008 Toyota Prius Full Review
Date Published: 6/28/08
Also in the 2008 Toyota Prius Review:
5.
6.
Toyota Prius Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Toyota Prius Review
The 2008 Toyota Prius adds a new lower-priced Standard model but is otherwise unchanged. This gas/electric hybrid car is a five-passenger, 4-door hatchback that teams a 4-cylinder engine with a battery-powered electric motor for 110 hp. Toyota's hybrid system automatically runs on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. No plug-in charging is required. Prius has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). In addition to the Standard, Base and sport-themed Touring trim levels are offered. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Tourings have a sport suspension, fog lights, and xenon headlights. Standards cost about $1400 less than the Base and are unavailable with features such as cruise control and heated power mirrors.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
Our Best Buys include Honda Accord and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 5, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Saturn Aura, and Toyota Camry.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Malibu, Dodge Avenger, Honda Accord, and Mazda 5.
News
A redesign for Hollywood's favorite hybrid is reportedly on for 2010 or 2011. Because the current model owes some of its popularity to distinct styling, the replacement, too, is expected to look like no other hybrid-power Toyota. There's also talk of a new powertrain with a plug-in electric side to allow running longer and farther without the gas engine. We also hear the new system might include a driver-adjustable selector for favoring acceleration or fuel economy as needed. What these changes might do to sticker price is unclear, but Toyota seems less concerned now with value than having Prius be a showcase for the company's latest and best hybrid technology.
Meantime, the current Prius is apparently selling now without the long waits and padded sticker prices of the past couple of years, this despite heightened public concern over long-term fuel prices. So if you can't wait for the new one, you should be able to get a decent deal right now, though probably not much of a discount.
Meantime, the current Prius is apparently selling now without the long waits and padded sticker prices of the past couple of years, this despite heightened public concern over long-term fuel prices. So if you can't wait for the new one, you should be able to get a decent deal right now, though probably not much of a discount.
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2008 Toyota Prius Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Fuel economy | Acceleration |
| Maneuverability | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 5.6 |
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.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, Priuses averaged 42.6-45.2 mpg in city/highway driving. One example averaged just 30.9 mpg in a test that included cold-weather driving. Other models averaged 41.7 mpg with mostly highway use and 36.7 in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. Prius uses regular-grade gas.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 10 | 10 | 5.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Priuses averaged 42.6-45.2 mpg in city/highway driving. One example averaged just 30.9 mpg in a test that included cold-weather driving. Other models averaged 41.7 mpg with mostly highway use and 36.7 in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. Prius uses regular-grade gas.
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
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.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Base model's soft suspension and fairly skinny, economy-based tires allow marked cornering lean and noseplow. Touring models have sharper moves with slightly better grip in turns. Prius is also less stable in crosswinds than most conventional midsize cars.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 6 |
Base model's soft suspension and fairly skinny, economy-based tires allow marked cornering lean and noseplow. Touring models have sharper moves with slightly better grip in turns. Prius is also less stable in crosswinds than most conventional midsize cars.
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
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.
Controls
Digital speedometer and fuel gauge group with the transmission-position indicator rather far ahead of the driver, but they are easy enough to read. Multifunction touch screen in center of dashboard absorbs most audio and climate functions, complicating their use. Default power-flow readout is distracting. Screen legibility is diminished by fingerprints and direct sunlight.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 6.3 |
Digital speedometer and fuel gauge group with the transmission-position indicator rather far ahead of the driver, but they are easy enough to read. Multifunction touch screen in center of dashboard absorbs most audio and climate functions, complicating their use. Default power-flow readout is distracting. Screen legibility is diminished by fingerprints and direct sunlight.
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
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/Driver Seating (front)
Generous headroom, but taller drivers might want more rearward seat travel. The seats are nothing special for shape or support. Front and rear roof pillars impede visibility to some angles.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Generous headroom, but taller drivers might want more rearward seat travel. The seats are nothing special for shape or support. Front and rear roof pillars impede visibility to some angles.
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
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.
Cargo Room
Hatchback versatility, with 60/40 split folding rear seatback and 14.4 cu ft of space with four aboard. But the sloped tail and high floor preclude toting tall items with the hatch closed. Under-floor storage is useful. The cabin has a roomy console bin and twin dashboard gloveboxes.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Hatchback versatility, with 60/40 split folding rear seatback and 14.4 cu ft of space with four aboard. But the sloped tail and high floor preclude toting tall items with the hatch closed. Under-floor storage is useful. The cabin has a roomy console bin and twin dashboard gloveboxes.
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.
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
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.
Total Score
| Base w/navigation | Touring w/navigation | Class Average |
| 60 | 61 | 63 |
Scores for all Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 63 | |
| High Score | 74 |
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2008 Toyota Prius Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/17/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| Standard 4-door hatchback | $21,500 | $20,210 | $660 |
|
|
|||
| Base 4-door hatchback | $22,875 | $21,064 | $660 |
|
|
|||
| Touring 4-door hatchback | $23,770 | $21,816 | $660 |
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Standard
Powertrain
1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, electric drive motor, continuously variable transmission (CVT), traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock brakes, brake assist, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/automatic climate control, interior air filter, tilt steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, outside-temperature indicator, trip computer, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper, automatic-off headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear spoiler, 185/65R15 tires, alloy wheels.
Base adds to Standard:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, heated power mirrors, cargo cover.
Touring adds to Base:
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights, fog lights, sport suspension, 195/55R16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Pkg. 2
|
||
|
Base, Touring
|
$575
|
$518
|
|
Antiskid system, rearview camera, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital-media-player connection, keyless access and starting.
|
||
|
Pkg. 3
|
||
|
Base, Touring
|
$2,105
|
$1,895
|
|
Antiskid system, rearview camera, keyless access and starting, JBL AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, digital-media player connection, wireless cell phone link, universal garage door opener, alarm.
|
||
|
Pkg. 4
|
||
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Base
|
$2,580
|
$2,322
|
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Pkg. 3 plus xenon headlights, fog lights.
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Pkg. 5
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||
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Touring
|
$2,905
|
$2,615
|
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Antiskid system, navigation system, rearview camera, keyless access and starting, JBL AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, digital-media player connection, wireless cell phone link, universal garage door opener, alarm.
|
||
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Pkg. 6
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Touring
|
$4,175
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$3,758
|
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Pkg. 5 plus leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
|
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Preferred Accessory Pkg.
|
||
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Base, Standard, Touring
|
$277
|
$181
|
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First-aid kit, cargo net, floormats, cargo mat.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Satellite radio
|
||
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Base, Standard, Touring
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$449
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$359
|
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Toyota Prius Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Toyota Prius 4-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 175.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.9 |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2932 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 11.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.3 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4/electric | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 1.5 /91 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 110 @ 5000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | @ |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| CVT automatic | 48/45 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Toyota Prius 4-door hatchback |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | None/-- | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Toyota Prius Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Toyota Prius Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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