The Toyota Prius is much-improved in its second incarnation as a hybrid sedan, powered by both an electric motor and a gasoline engine. Its only competitor to date is the Honda Insight, which can't approach the Prius in terms of practicality. It made its debut in Japan in 1997 and migrated to North American shores in 2000. This is a practical four-door with a large cargo area under a hatch that could easily satisfy many if not most buyers of family vehicles. The annual savings in fuel costs will be significant for a Prius owner. It has an impressive combined city/highway rating of 55 miles to the gallon. Using 100% electric at low speeds, it's still more efficient in the city than on highways.

The 2004 Toyota Prius is equipped much as any "normal" car, serves family duties admirably, stickers under $20,000, yet returns astounding mileage figures in town or cruising the highway. It will accelerate to 100 kilometers per hour in a respectable 10 seconds, compared to 12.6 seconds for the old Prius. It includes a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system - are managed via a touch sensitive display mounted in the center of the dash. The screen also displays operating information about the Hybrid Drive System. Since fiddling with a touch screen can be distracting, audio and climate controls are also mounted on the steering wheel. Keyless entry is standard, while a 'smart key' is optional. It is eerily quiet to drive. It is a giant step forward for gasoline/electric hybrids, launching the technology into the mainstream of the automotive market.

Compare this Prius with the new 2004 Insight.

2004 Insight

The 2004 Honda Insight is made in the design of a two-door hatchback. Not surprising, the ultra-efficient model is also quite versatile. Up to 16.3 cubic feet of cargo volume is offered with the two-seater. It retain its modest set of standard interior features. All models receive power mirrors, windows and door locks, an AM/FM/CD player, a trip computer, a rear defogger, a rear wiper/washer and a driver's storage compartment. For a little more money, buyers can pick up an air conditioning system with automatic climate controls. The exterior design of the Insight is all about reducing wind drag. With this in mind, engineers gave it distinctive rear fender skirts and lightweight alloy wheels with an aerodynamic design. The safety and security features included 3-point seat belts with an automatic tensioning system, dual front airbags, a theft- deterrent system and antilock brakes.

Compare the Toyota's new Prius with the Insight, Stratus Sedan and last years 2003 Neon.

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