**A Closer Look at the Toyota Prius: Pros and Cons**
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid electric vehicle that has been making waves in the automotive industry with its impressive fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly design. But, like any car, it's not without its flaws. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the pros and cons of driving the Toyota Prius.
**Driving Experience: A Mixed Bag**
When you first get behind the wheel of the Toyota Prius, you may notice that the brakes are very sharp. This is because the car's electric motor actually recouples lost energy under braking and pulls it back into the battery, which improves the car's economy. However, this can be a bit harsh on the driving experience, especially when stopping suddenly. On the other hand, when driving in town, the Prius is actually quite comfortable and easy to handle.
But, if you need to accelerate quickly or drive on a faster route like a motorway, things can get a bit noisy. The engine produces a droning sound that's not quite as effortless or relaxing as some other cars. Additionally, when you put your foot down hard to overtake someone, the engine can produce an unpleasant noise.
**Handling and Performance**
One of the most surprising things about the Toyota Prius is how well it handles on twisty roads. While it may not be the fastest car on the market, it does have a power mode that gives you a bit more performance. The car also steers well and grips quite nicely, even with its soft suspension.
However, if you're looking for a car that can handle spirited driving, the Prius might not be the best choice. It rolls about a bit due to its soft suspension, but it's not so bad that it becomes uncomfortable.
**Five Annoying Things About the Toyota Prius**
While the Toyota Prius is an impressive car in many ways, there are some things that can get on your nerves. For one thing, the gear selector is annoyingly placed on the steering column, making it a bit of a stretch to reach.
Additionally, the Prius uses nickel metal hydride batteries, which are different from those used in rechargeable AAA batteries like the ones you find in mobile phones. In some countries, however, the Prius actually comes with lithium-ion batteries instead.
Another thing that gets on people's nerves is the lack of a foot-operated parking brake. This can be old-fashioned and difficult to use, especially for those who are not familiar with it. It's also quite inconvenient when you need to park your car quickly.
Finally, some people find the shiny trim in the car distracting, especially if they have trouble seeing because of all the reflections.
**Five Good Things About the Toyota Prius**
Despite its flaws, there are many things that make the Toyota Prius a great choice for those who want an eco-friendly car. For one thing, the engine is 40% thermal efficient, which is impressive compared to other production petrol engines.
The car also comes with an eco-drive monitor that shows you how economically you're driving and how much money you can save by optimizing your driving habits. This feature can be especially useful if you're looking to reduce your fuel costs or improve the environment.
Additionally, the Prius has a range of standard safety features, including lane departure warning and active cruise control. It's also scored an impressive 92% for adult occupant protection in Euro NCAP crash tests.
The car also comes with some practical touches, such as rubberized floor mats and vinyl-covered rear seats that are easy to clean. In fact, the rear windows go all the way down, which makes it less likely that you'll get splashed when driving through puddles.
Finally, the 15-inch wheels on the Prius come in a low-profile size, making them exempt from the London congestion charge.
**Conclusion**
Overall, the Toyota Prius is a great choice for those who want an eco-friendly car that's reasonably practical and economical. While it may have its flaws, it's definitely worth considering if you're looking for a reliable and environmentally friendly vehicle.