2004 Toyota Prius Price, Fuel Economy, Review & Road Test

Our Car of the Year winner is earning its way into the hearts and minds of our staff with its user-friendliness. Several logbook comments address the Smart Entry and Start feature. "It's so cool to just keep the key in my pocket, walk up, grab the door handle, pull it, and the car unlocks. Ditto on the clean getaway where I simply shut the door and press the little black start button on the handle."

Another comment: "It's easy to sit parked, with the A/C on, and know that the computer will let the batteries drain in environmental friendliness, switching on the gas only when needed." The first 5000 miles came quickly and with it our first scheduled maintenance stop; this dealer visit included an oil and filter change, tire rotation, and brake inspection. Total cost was $68.42. Life in Hybridland is good, so far.