Toyota Prius - 2007 Review

I know the main appeal about the Toyota Prius is the extremely good gas mileage (although I am more aggressive and only average 45MPG), but what I really like about it is the utility of the interior. The hatchback is truly versatile, and with the fold-down back seats you get an enormous area to pack your gear. With the rear seat backs in the up position, it will actually seat two adults or three kids (and I put the driver's seat all the way back.) It truly has more room than many larger cars.

The controls and dash take some getting used to, and while there are things that I would change, for the most part it works for me. The video screen has some very useful modes (checking the economy, back-up camera, heating and ventilation) and also some ridiculous ones (bad navigation system, bad audio screen, and some very bad UI regarding how to set up personalization). You'd think with all of the good navigation systems out there (particularly Garmin) that you wouldn't have to spend $2000 to get a crummy one.

I bought pre-paid service for 55,000 miles ($999) and so my costs of ownership have been very low (gas, insurance, depreciation). It makes it so simple to own. I get 420 to 440 miles per tank, so fill-ups are infrequent and cheap (the tank has never taken more than 10 gallons.) My tires are soon going to need replacing at 35,000 miles.

I got the very rare Touring edition, which has some nice features, but I have virtually never seen another one. It has deluxe headlights, slightly larger wheels, and a slightly bigger spoiler, and supposedly a stiffer suspension. Basically, I liked the wheels.

I would not get the nav system, but otherwise it's a tremendous bargain and a technological miracle.