It’s a tribute to Toyota that their Prius model has become virtually synonymous with the word hybrid. Like Kleenex, Band Aid and Scotch Tape, to name a few other brands that has done the same.
And there’s a reason for that. It’s been almost 20 years since the Prius was introduced in the U.S., and it still leads North American hybrid sales. The fact it is one of the world’s most fuel-efficient vehicles without a plug doesn’t hurt either.
My tester, the 2018 Toyota Prius Plus Prime averaged 55 miles per gallon in hybrid mode, in a combination of city and a freeway driving, some of it in the typical I-5 stop-and-go grind. It gets another 25 miles range in electric mode – which makes it nice to use running errands around town.
Toyota offers the 2018 Prius in seven model grades, each one equipped as standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P). It provides a comprehensive bundle of active safety features designed to help protect drivers and passengers from harm. The suite includes: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams and full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control.
Prius Prime Plus seats up to four adults, with built-in cup holders placed in the center, preventing a fifth passenger. The trunk is spacious, but not spacious enough to accommodate golf clubs without folding one side of the rear seats flat.
Every generation of Prius has one key element in common: it exceeds the fuel efficiency of the previous one. The latest version of its hybrid synergy drive combines the output of a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and two motor/generators through an electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission. Shift-by-wire technology, which uses electric signals to transmit shift operations, offers light fingertip operation from the dash-mounted shifter. The regenerative brake system switches the motor into a generator, extending range.
One thing that takes a little getting used to is the wrap-around dash, with all of the controls placed dead center between driver and passenger. A quick glance up, to check on speed – for instance – and you’re looking at plastic. No biggie. One quickly adapts.
If you like quiet, the Prius Prime Plus is your ride. Push the start button and aside from the dashboard springing to life – no sound – at least to my mature ears. The powertrain runs very quietly and aerodynamic design blunts wind noise. A sound-insulating laminated windshield and numerous sound absorbers in the dash structure reduce more noise. And Higher-grade models feature sound-insulating laminated front door glass.
The Prius is all high-tech inside, connecting with devices and music through its Entune Audio systems. The Entune App Suite includes Destination Search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Facebook Places, Yelp and Slacker Radio plus real-time info including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks. Access to Entune is subscription free.
With each passing year, the consumer is getting more for less when it comes to hybrids. And Toyota is at the top of the list. For years, I’ve said to wait until the technology matures and the price drops.
My friends, that time is now!
Base Price: $27,995
Price As Driven: $27,995
Base price includes destination charge. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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