I just picked up my 2002 Toyota Prius 2 weeks ago and can't stop driving it. I'm actually finding excuses to run to the store just to take it out for a spin. All in all, I'm greatly satisfied with the car minus a few small quirks which I'm sure will be addressed in the future models.

First, the little problems. The car does get excellent gas mileage but I found the sticker ratings for average MPG were a little exaggerated. The sticker showed 46-54 MPG but I've found that my average was closer to 42-46 MPG. Also, the arm rest was anything but an arm rest being about 6 inches too short for me to rest on it comfortably. Lastly, the remote control for the alarm did not have a remote trunk pop which is pretty much standard on lots of cars today. Why Toyota didn't include a $50 device on a $23K car is strange to me...

Aside from all those minor problems, the car is everything I expected it to be and more. For an economy car, I found the interior space to be quite ample in the front and back(it's roomier than a Corolla and only 3 cubic feet smaller than a Camry). Also, the ride was very comfortable and quiet, something I didn't expect in an economy car. The engine delivers enough pep for me to accelerate on demand and keep up with any car on the freeway. I topped out at around 98-100 MPH. The in dash control panel does take a little getting used to, but after a few rides, I found myself navigating the different menus like a pro. Also, the climate controls are pretty standard like in any other Toyota. Safety features included dual standard airbags (I opted for side impact bags for a total of 6 air bags) and ABS brakes (standard). Environmentalists will love the SULEV rating on the car which produces about 75% less emissions than the most clean burning gasoline only cars out there. Reliability wise, it's too soon to know what will pop up in this car a few years from now, but Toyota's comprehensive warranty covers all repairs for 3 years (I opted for the extended 7 year warranty for about $1500 more).

I think the minor quirks are more suggestions to Toyota than anything else. They would have never stopped me from buying the car and I recommend it to any looking for an economy or commuter car. The price tag makes it about $5,000 more than a comparable Civic or Corolla but you'll make that back in gas savings over the lifetime of the car. Plus you'll feel good knowing you're driving a technologically advanced car that will spare the air.
Amount Paid (US$): 23000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2002
Model and Options: Prius 2002 with all options except GPS