2008 Toyota Prius Review

The Prius comes for 2008 as a new lower-priced model that lists at $20,950. Other models are the $22,325 Base and $23,220 Touring. They cost more than other fuel-efficient cars, although rivals aren't quite as frugal with gas.

Even the new entry model is fairly well-equipped, with such items as a push-button start, air conditioning with automatic climate control, tilt wheel, split-folding rear seat, AM/FM/CD player and power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry. The Base model adds items including cruise control. And the Touring has a sport suspension and larger 55-series tires on 16-inch wheels -- up from narrower 65-series tires on 15-inch wheels.

All Prius models have traction control, anti-lock brakes and front-side and side-curtain air bags.

There are various option packages. One contains an anti-skid system and backup camera for the Base and Touring models, which was listed at $1,175 on my test car sticker before a $600 discount brought it to $575 -- a good deal.

Those who want to go whole hog can order the $4,175 option package for the Touring that contains leather upholstery -- seemingly an over-the-top option for a super-economy car.

The Prius is generally fun to drive -- oddly, it reminds me of a 1960s MG sports car with its stiff, direct steering, compliant ride and decent handling, although the narrow 65-series tires are a handicap during spirited driving. (The sharpest handling is from the Touring with its wider tires and firmer suspension.) The brake pedal is rather touchy, but stopping distances are OK.

Large door handles, low floors and wide door openings make it easy to enter the fairly quiet interior, which has average-grade materials. There's comfortable space for four tall adults in the upright seats. A deep covered center bin and twin gloveboxes provide a fair amount of storage space. Also, front doors have pockets and bottle holders. Dual rear cupholders pull out from the back of the front console but are inconveniently at floor level.

Visibility is pretty good, and outside mirrors are large. No less than six washer jets keep the windshield clean. But a driver can't see the front or rear ends of the car. There's only manual adjustments for the supportive front seats. Major controls are easy to use, but bright sunlight washes out audio and climate readouts in the center dashboard touch screen.

The fairly large cargo area has a wide, but somewhat high, opening, and the hatch has an indented area to help close it. Split-folding rear seatbacks significantly enlarge the cargo area and sit flat when flipped forward.

The hood is held open by a prop rod and conceals a very crowded engine compartment.

The Prius likely will cause owners to regard most autos as gas hogs, although its higher price and complicated drivetrain are drawbacks. How long will its hybrid system last? Toyota guarantees hybrid-related components for eight years or 100,000 miles.

By then, the Hollywood crowd will have moved on to another type of vehicle.

2008 Toyota Prius 

Prices: $20,950-$23,220

Likes: High fuel economy. Lively. Roomy. New lower-priced model.

Dislikes: Costs more than other fuel-efficient cars. Complex drivetrain. Stiff steering.