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 The Toyota Prius is much-improved in its second incarnation as a hybrid sedan, powered by both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. Its only competitor to date is the Honda Insight, which can't approach the Prius in terms of practicality. It made its debut in Japan in 1997 and migrated to North American shores in 2000. This is a practical four-door with a large cargo area under a hatch that could easily satisfy many if not most buyers of family vehicles. The 2006 2007 Toyota Prius is equipped much as any "normal" car, serves family duties admirably, stickers under $20,000, yet returns astounding mileage figures in town or cruising the highway.
It will accelerate to 100 kilometres per hour in a respectable 10 seconds, compared to 12.6 seconds for the old Prius. It includes a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system - are managed via a touch sensitive display mounted in the centre of the dash. The screen also displays operating information about the Hybrid Drive System. Since fiddling with a touch screen can be distracting, audio and climate controls are also mounted on the steering wheel. Keyless entry is standard, while a 'smart key' is optional. It is eerily quiet to drive. It is a giant step forward for gasoline/electric hybrids, launching the technology into the mainstream of the automotive market. Headroom and footroom are plentiful both front and back. The 2006 2007 Toyota Prius easily accommodated a 6-foot, 8-inch friend in its rear seat. Shutting off this hybrid means placing a foot on the brake pedal, pressing a "parking" button on the dash, and depressing the power button. It is well be the hybrid that North American consumers have been waiting for - a functional vehicle with proven technology and priced to compete with conventional mid-size sedans.
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