Searching for a Greener Ride

In my quest to find the right eco-friendly car to suit my lifestyle, I’m testing a different low-impact vehicle each month for one year. I’ve begun my mission with the flagship of hybrids, the 2008 Toyota Prius.

First Impressions
The car’s mandate is low emissions and low fuel-consumption over performance. From a gas tank “bladder” to reduce fumes and evaporation to energy-saving LED lights, they seem to have thought of everything. I found the third generation Prius quite sporty in the city and on the highway. It hugs the road nicely when driven at “reasonable” speeds (which I’m learning is the point, if you’re trying to lighten your load on the earth) – and doesn’t have the lightweight feel of an economy car.

Style
Eco Chic. But frankly, this car’s cool-factor is based on its talents, not its looks.

Form vs. Fuction
The futuristic “wegg” shape (wedge + egg) is entirely purposeful in the design. As a Prius owner, you can proudly proclaim that your car has a slightly better aerodynamic rating than a Porsche 911 and is more streamlined than a Corvette.

The Best Part
I was impressed by the interior storage – a double-decker glove compartment with shelves (why didn’t someone think of this years ago!). There was also ample storage in the console (again equipped with a loft-style shelf), plus an in-dash spot for lip gloss, change or remotes. But my favourite feature of this model was the hands-free entry and ignition. As long as you have a key on you, you can open the doors or trunk without searching through your pockets or bag. I never took the keys out of my purse for an entire month! You just push a button on the dash and off you go.

What I Wished For
Not a lot. I wish the upholstery came in leather. I wish they had a low-mileage lease (a city driver like me ends up paying for a lot more miles than needed). I wish the lights weren’t so big and flashy.

Claim to Fame
Toyota says that if you drive the Prius for 8,500 miles, you’ll produce less smog-forming emissions than using a 4 oz bottle of nail polish remover (based on legal allowable limits).

My Test Month
Gas Prices: When I picked up the Prius: $1.11
When I dropped it off, one month later: $1.21
Total Mileage: 561.4 km
Total Spent on Gas: $46.16 (37.98 L)
My First Fill-Up: Day 26 ($39.64)
My Avg Consumption: 6.3 L/100 km