UPDATE: After 2 years of ownership, I still marvel at the technology behind this car and enjoy driving my Prius more than ever. I also now own a Honda Insight -- another hybrid marvel and a FANTASTIC car, if only for specific lifestyles.

This car has a few shortcomings but while we wait for fuel-cell cars and other new technologies to evolve, this is one of the best automotive concepts out there. As stated above, the Honda Insight is an excellent alternative (and a blast to drive, all while achieving outstanding mileage) -- for those who want a two-seater (see my review of the 2002 Insight).

I was one the very first to take delivery of a Prius in Los Angeles, and the vehicle has exceeded my expectations in almost all respects. A few comments regarding different features and the rumors I have heard:

1. Ignore those who state this car lacks power to pass others on the freeway or perform other necessary tasks: the Prius skillfully alternates between electrical and gas modes, providing ample "oomph" and using the gas engine in addition to the electric motor when needed.

2. The ride is comfortable and reasonably smooth for a car of this class and size. However, do not expect this car to match the smoothness and complete silence of a luxury sedan. The Prius is not intended to compete with such cars but it is no worse than a Camry. Its automatic climate control is its most luxurious feature but the sound system is also very nice and the touch-screen display is the same one found in many Lexus models. Unfortunately, GPS and Cruise Control are not yet available. [8/2001: They are now available on 2002 models, as are side-impact airbags.]

3. An important NOTE: tire pressure can dramatically change the feel of your ride and over-inflating does not improve mileage, as many have written -- keep your tires at the manufacturer's suggested PSI!

4. The back seat is also remarkably roomy for such a small car but the front seat has less leg room than a Camry (the seats can't go as far back). BE WARNED: I am 6'4 and I find driving this car a little cramped, and the foot rest is inconvenient. There is enough room but just a little more would be much appreciated!

5. Many owners complain of the awkward layout of the different controls. I disagree. The touch-screen display is convenient and all controls are intuitive, excepts for a few items listed bellow.

6. A few oversights:
- The sound system Power button, which is placed so that it cannot be seen when driving (the gear shift blocks it) -- but I quickly got used to this and can easily "feel" for it.
- The visor mirrors are cheap to say the least but who cares? It's not like this is the car's most important feature!
- Of course, we've gone over the lack of cruise control and GPS, which would be nice options -- as would be SIDE IMPACT AIR BAGS. They are not yet available, which is really too bad.
- A more practical complaint is that steering can be difficult (overly tight) on the freeway or at high speeds. The wheel is extremely sensitive but once I got used to it, there have really been no difficulties.
- Brakes have a somewhat "unnatural" feel. This takes the most getting used to but again this was not hard, and the brakes react very well if you need to stop suddenly.

7. Otherwise, every aspect of this car is well thought-out, including the central digital speedometer and multi-information display. It might be awkward at first but having everything in the center of the dash, rather than directly in front of the driver, is actually much better.

8. A definite plus: the 2001 warranty includes free required maintenance for 3 years, and the hybrid components are covered for 8 years.

My only (very slight) disappointment is the car's mileage. It is quite decent but not outstanding, and a good deal bellow advertised figures... but no big deal considering the environmental benefits of this car and the fact it still gets about double the mileage of an equivalent "traditional" car. The Prius is fun to drive and makes beautiful u-turns, also parking in the tightest spots. I was not crazy about the car's bug-like appearance at first but even that I have grown to like. This is truly a remarkable car.

A FEW MORE NOTES: I would caution owners not to let valets drive the car, the gear shift can be confusing. It is important to screw on the gas cover tightly or a general fault light will flash. Also note that careful driving can achieve higher mileage (you will soon learn to press the accelerator just right at high speeds, allowing the car to use only the electric motor, for example).

------ SECURITY FEATURES UPDATE -------
4/12/2001 The NHTSA just released the Prius' frontal crash test results, and they were disappointing: 3 stars for the driver and 4 stars for the passenger. However, note that a fellow Prius owner has been in a serious accident and was well protected. I would still highly recommend this car but I sincerely hope Toyota improves the car's safety features and gets a better NHTSA rating on 2002 and subsequent models!
Amount Paid (US$): 20500
Condition: New
Model Year: 2001
Model and Options: CD Player, Floor Mats