2004 Toyota Prius New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Toyota Prius?
Toyota launches its second-generation Prius, featuring a new hybrid powertrain that can achieve 55 miles to the gallon with a light foot. The new Toyota Prius is bigger, more powerful and equipped with more features than the previous version. The gas-electric Hybrid Synergy Drive makes a combined total of 143 horsepower mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), resulting in acceleration and passing power that matches that of a regular economy car. The 2004 Toyota Prius also belches the least amount of emissions of any car for sale in the U.S. Its useful hatchback design and split folding rear seats allow for plenty of cargo space, and there’s room enough to fit three adults comfortably in the back seat – enough space that the EPA calls the Toyota Prius a midsize car. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution are standard, while side and side curtain airbags, Hill Acceleration Control and stability control are worthy options. Interesting extra-cost features include a six-disc CD changer, keyless entry and start, a navigation system and Bluetooth technology that allows hands-free cell phone conversation through the Prius’ stereo speakers.

Advantages of the 2004 Toyota Prius:

• Contains the most sophisticated hybrid technology on the market
• Comfortable and roomy enough for five adults
• Copious cargo space and utility
• Environmentally conscious purchase lets you sleep peacefully at night
• 55 mpg while commuting in traffic – no kidding

Objections to the 2004 Toyota Prius:

• Aside from smug factor and watching battery recharge history on distracting center screen, not much fun to drive
• Engine starting and gear selection is unnecessarily difficult
• Off-putting design keeps Prius firmly trapped in quirky nether regions of the automotive marketplace

Editor's Advice:
Proving that there is something new under the sun, the 2004 Toyota Prius ushers Americans into a new era in powertrain technology. Yes, the previous Prius sedan showcased the same hybrid engine expertise that allowed it to sip precious fossil fuels and limit noxious emissions, but that initial effort was hampered by anemic acceleration and packaging compromises. The new 2004 Toyota Prius, now in hatchback form, may still look polemic to some, but with generous seating for five, decent get-up-and-go, and an impressively capacious cargo space, we think that it will catch on in a major way. Well, it should anyway. For those requiring Point A to Point B transportation, there is absolutely no logical reason to spend $20,000 on any other vehicle that will be used solely for commuting to the office, to the grocery store and to the mall. And for those who are concerned with gas prices, as well as the future health of the planet, that is a very good thing.