2005 Toyota Prius
MPG & MSRP:
Automatic 60/51, $20,875

Call it Toyota's guinea pig toward an all-hybrid line up. Or the popular kid on the hybrid block. Either way, the importance of the Prius can't be overstated, even with its record-breaking sales and months-long waiting lists. This second-generation version hybrid is practically an all-new car and, as a world car, it's one of global significance. It's bigger, moving up to the mid-size sedan class, and its refinements, upgrades and amenities move it upstream in the market. Perhaps the most significant improvement is that the new Prius powertrain moves along more quickly, a key component when it comes to the evolution of hybrid technology. Prius has moved from science project to mainstream player. Its price and fuel economy, of course, are two of its best attributes, and its hybrid technology is the standard-bearer in the industry, offering 30 percent lower emissions than the first-generation Prius.

Powered by a hybrid system with a permanent magnet-type, 40 hp electric motor and a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine (70 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque), the Prius has a net output of 98 hp., about as much as a typical compact car. Hydrocarbon output is about 30 percent less than last year's model, while the engine puts out 50 kilowatts and 500 volts, up from 33 kW and about 300 volts. Its EPA fuel economy rating--60 MPG/ city and 51/ highway, with a combined rating of 55 MPG-is a significant increase over the previous-generation Prius- a combined fuel economy rating of 48 MPG. Additionally, it has increased in size from a compact-class sedan to mid-size sedan; has more power and now accelerates on a par with the Camry LE; has optional the Smart Entry and Start system; optional curtain/side airbags; optional enhanced Vehicle Stability Control; with the same $19,995 MSRP as the original Prius.