This past weekend in Buffalo I rented a 2007 Toyota Prius Hybrid. I learned that you do not simply rent a Prius and drive off; you rent a Prius and sit there until someone explains how to drive off. Where's my 8 track?
You know that sound when you turn the ignition and the car's already started? That will never happen with the Prius. First, there's no key in the traditional sense. The key is actually the remote entry fob. You insert the key fob into the designated slot, press the brake, and hit the start button. A light in the all digital display tells you the car is ready which is useful because you won't hear a peep from the car even though its on (more on that in a bit). The transmission shifter consists of a small knob to the right of the steering wheel. To engage reverse, drive, or neutral, you simply tap the knob up or down, right or left. To put the transmission in park you must press a button above the shifter knob.
The center of the dashboard is dominated by a large touch screen lcd. Audio and climate controls are contained within the screen. The screen also provides fuel consumption information, as well as an integrated blue tooth phone and phone book. The screen and overall design of the car's electronics and computers are very impressive. While a Prius is not cheap by economy car standards (about $25,000 as configured), the level of equipment and fit and finish of the interior materials make the car feel modern and substantial.
One of the main functions of the center screen is to provide fuel consumption information. As you drive, you are provided with current and average gas economy, and are presented with a slightly confusing representation of energy savings (something about how many light bulbs you could power with the fuel you're saving - wtf?). An alternative screen shows what percentage of power is coming from the gas engine, and how much from the battery and other electrical aspects of the car's power plant.
As part of its fuel saving design, the gas engine comes on only when needed (which is most of the time but not at initial ignition, at complete stops, or when descending hills, for example). It's interesting to be waiting at a red light wondering if the car is on (it is); instead of a melodic engine note, the Prius shows off its prowess with silence. Above 10 miles an hour or so, you feel a slight rumble as the gas engine kicks in. Whoosh.
Among other cool features in the car are a rear view video camera that activates while in reverse, and front seats that fold completely flat. The video feed (which you watch - where else - but on the ever so vital central screen) is clear even in the dark. I was initially put off by the feature - it seemed unnecessary and it beeps mercilessly - but I realized that because of the unique shape of the Prius' rear window (a sort of bifurcated hatch back), visibility is poor and the camera is helpful.
Having figured out how to drive the thing, I wondered, did it live up to the hype? In terms of fuel economy, there is no denying the numbers; I averaged 48.5 miles per gallon over the 325 miles I put on the odometer. The greatest economy comes - not surprisingly - from highway miles; on a trip to Toronto (about 90 miles from Buffalo) I achieved 50+ miles/gallon with the cruise control set to 70. City driving is less efficient; tap and go acceleration notably reduces your efficiency. If you like to drive with the pedal to the metal, this is not the car for you, however, if you have a long highway commute to work, or are a more patient driver, you'll rack up impressive efficiency. The question is whether you'll be happy achieving efficiency at the cost of muscle.
I found the car's exterior design less appealing than the Honda Civic Hybrid or the Toyota Camry Hybrid, yet the Prius' unique design does create a tech forward image that befits the car's technological chops. What I appreciated most about the car was what it represents with respect to future hybrid/low emission technology. Subsequent generations will be better looking, better performing, and more efficient. My guess is that as hybrid technology advances, more cars and trucks across the full spectrum of automobiles will be available at smaller and smaller premiums; how long before the 80 mpg pick up truck or minivan? As can be seen by the length of this post, the Prius definitely gives you something to talk about.
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