One-Year Test Update: 2004 toyota Prius
Sheesh. How much harder can it be to change the oil and filter
By Neil G. Chirico
Photography by Gautam Patki
Our last update referenced a problem with the Prius's touch-screen, which appeared to need calibration. On certain screens, the button touched didn't always deliver the reaction intended. We demonstrated the screen's spirit of independence at the 10,000-mile service. This service also had a higher estimate than the first visit--strange, as the regimen for the previous 5000- and this 10,000-mile service are the same. The dealership's service advisor explained that it charges more money for Prius service, claiming the hybrids are harder to work on. Sheesh. How much harder can it be to change the oil and filter, rotate the tires, and perform a visual brake inspection? After getting our Prius back from the dealer, we were disappointed to learn the touch screen had checked out as having "normal operation." A different dealer is lined up for next time.
| 2004 Toyota Prius8 |
| Base price | $20,510 |
| Price as tested | $26,088 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, fwd, 4-door, 5-pass |
| Engine | 1.5L I-4. DOHC, 4 valves/cyl, plus elect motor |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 76 @ 5000, engine; 67 @ 1200-1540, electric motor |
| Torque @ rpm | 82 @ 4200, engine, 295 @ 0-1200, electric motor |
| Transmission | Continuously variable |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 10.2 |
| EPA mpg | 60 city/ 51 highway |
| Total mileage | 12,648 |
| Average test mpg | 41.1 |
| Problem areas | Touch screen still needs to be recalibrated |
| Maintenance cost | $134.28 |
| Normal-wear cost | $0 |
FROM THE LOGBOOK
"For all its whiz-bang tech, the 2004 Prius ends up being a real carand a damned fine, midsize, bargain-priced one at that."
Matt Stone |