Thursday, December 19, 2024

Sporty Prius still in its Prime among hybrid vehicles

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- I have a history with the Toyota Prius ... one loaded with good memories.

At the dawn of the 21st century, the Prius convinced me and many others that this gas-electric hybrid thing was going to work out just fine.

Next thing you know, I was writing about monster-size sales of the vehicle.

One of the most memorable rides of my life was in a Prius generation two, with motoring legend Denise McCluggage at the wheel.

A recent week in a 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE only added to my memory list.  Let me count the ways ...

While some did not like the 2023 body styling change, I loved it.  The Prius was transformed from a boxy suburban dweller to a super sporty-looking highway flyer. To this day, many are shocked to learn that the hot sports car they parked next to is a Prius.

And the power package backs up the look nicely.

On the tester, the standard 2-liter, four-cylinder engine was ably backed by a plug-in hybrid system, the combo churning out a max 220 horsepower.  The tester zipped along with Corvette-like intensity, and the perfectly tuned balance made for a secure feeling behind the wheel.

The old story is that Prius motorists drive it like they stole the vehicle.  With the Prius Prime, that feeling is doubled. And it's a guilt-free blast.

Of course, the payoff is exceptional fuel mileage -- a combined 52 miles per gallon with the gas-fueled system handling the heavy lifting.

Some reviewers have complained about the comfort level, but I had no such problems.  Volunteer passengers were likewise complaint-free.

A generous helping of standard features did little damage to the wallet.  I was genuinely surprised to find the sticker's bottom line reading (a most reasonable) $34,434.

Given everything, the current Prius still excites at a high level ... and looks good doing it.

1 comment:

  1. Mark, I agree with you about the looks. But my question is about flexibility for seniors, ingress and egress and whether you can take a 4 wheel walker will fit?

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