SECOND HAND SENSE:WHEN IT comes to a second-hand car with extensive green credentials, the choice is limited. That's why Toyota's Prius always attracts plenty of interest.
Anyone who feels obliged to consider their carbon footprint will gravitate to the Prius. The combination of driving on an electric motor at lower speeds and a petrol engine at higher speeds means city driving is essentially pollution-free. The Prius got off to a slow start – even when VRT on the car was reduced it was viewed as a little too fantastic for some tastes.
Nor were the car’s looks likely to attract attention. Now people know more about the technology and are more willing to overlook its rather unimaginative profile. It comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, complemented by the electric motor, and an automatic gearbox. When the motor is running the effect is near total silence – a welcome antidote to city traffic. And, in case you are wondering, it is powerful; 0-100km/h in just over 10 seconds.
When the engine is running, the car sounds more conventional. It is pleasant and relaxing with lots of space. Ride and handling were developed in the sibling Corolla and are just fine. The boot is generous, as is the rear seating. There are steering wheel controls and a digital read-out from the dash.
The Prius comes with a five-star EuroNCAP crash rating.
Even the electric motor battery that was widely expected to prove problematic has been virtually trouble-free. Toyota, in order to reassure customers venturing into the unknown, has also given an eight-year warranty on the hybrid components.
The car is equipped with airbags, traction control, anti-lock brakes and stability programme.
A 2005 model (it was re-launched in 2004) with 100,000km on the clock is on offer for €9,900. (I would not be too put off by high mileage on a well-serviced Toyota.) A 2006 with 34,000km is €16,995.
The Prius is a very nice car to drive and will save lots in petrol during urban drives. Probably of more importance to owners, it will make you feel good about your eco credentials.
STAR RATING: 7/10