The current second generation Prius has been carried down from 2004. It is now also available in the Touring Edition. The new trim features sport a bigger rear spoiler, bigger wheels and high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlamps. With seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags now standard, the 2007 Prius shows more promise.

Combining the practicality of an economy car with attractive fuel mileage, the Prius has become one of the best-selling hybrid vehicles in the U.S. and one of the most technologically advanced cars in the world. The Prius is backed up by Toyota’s solid build quality and refinement, plus the appeal of a highly affordable price tag. With an outstanding EPA mileage rating and a long list of standard amenities, the hybrid is one of the most talked about cars in today’s fuel strapped economy.

Top competitors to the Toyota Prius include the Honda Civic hybrid, the Honda Insight, and the Volkswagen Golf. The Toyota Prius compares favorably in terms of starting MSRP $21,725 and EPA mileage ratings of 60/51 mpg (City/Highway). The Prius is available as a four-door hatchback model and has a choice of five optional packages.

The Prius features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides the ease of a conventional automatic transmission, without clutch, gears, or drive belts. The motors work in tandem with the gas engine to provide a smooth band of power and efficiency. The fuel economy figures for the Prius are impressive at 60 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.

While the Base trim stands on 15” alloy wheels, the new Touring trim comes with 16” alloys. The Touring also carries a bigger rear spoiler and has High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps and integrated fog lamps.

The Prius offers hatchback versatility, with 60/40 split folding rear seatback and 16.1 cu-ft of cargo space. Remote switches for the audio, climate, and cruise controls are mounted on the steering wheel. There is plenty of functional storage, a roomy console bin and twin glove boxes. Front and rear roof pillars hamper visibility at certain angles.

An automatic climate control that consists of a tilt steering wheel with audio and climate controls is a standard feature. Some other standard features include a center console armrest, 4-way adjustable front seats, remote keyless entry, 60/40 split bench seat, a six-speaker CD stereo, cruise control, and trip computer.

Options like a DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free phone technology, a nine-speaker JBL premium audio system with six-disc CD changer, and leather seating are also available.

The Toyota Prius has more than enough power for daily driving. With the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the shifting of gears is hardly detectable. Acceleration is smooth and steady. Cabin noise is minimal due to the soft suspension that flattens out the ride. The Touring trim gets a tuned suspension making the ride even more level.

Handling feels safe and secure, but is not sporty. With its quiet power and smooth transmission, driving the Prius is a snap, even in rush hour traffic. Skinny tires allow a marked lean while cornering. Electric steering is consistent and effortless. Anti-lock brakes provide impressive stopping power.

Toyota has made front seat-mounted side airbags & front/rear side curtain airbags standard on the 2007 Prius. Four-wheel antilock brakes, BrakeAssist and traction control, child seat lower anchorage, adjustable upper belt pretensioners, rear center lap/shoulder belt, advanced airbag system, rear seat head restraints, and a tire pressure monitor are some of the other standard features that the Prius offers.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and an anti-theft system are available as part of the optional packages offered.