Toyota Prius T Spirit - page 2

23 February 2008

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I did find this a bit un-nerving and relayed totally on the ‘ready’ light being on that reiterated to me the car was still running. So really you have to trust the car and the quite remarkable technology under her bonnet whilst on yet another shopping trip, at the same token conquering the parking bays thanks to the speed sensitive electric power steering that constantly gauges how mush assistance you need and adapts accordingly resulting in a refreshingly good feedback. You may also find yourself venturing further afield for the ride and handling of the Prius is pretty impressive thanks to ‘Nachlauf’ geometry for the front suspension giving straight line stability and with the negative camber ensures the Prius stays on track in hard cornering.

Thankfully, as you OD on numerous outings, proud as punch you are saving the planet at the same time if you select EV – Electric Vehicle mode, by simply pressing a button on the dashboard, as zero emissions are produced - yippee, you are very safe for the Prius has a five star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant safety. Not only do you have the ABS, EBD Brake Assist and Vehicle Stability control, but also Electronically Controlled Brake which is the worlds first ‘by-wire’ braking system that calculates the required braking force based on the amount of pedal effort and force you apply. In addition is E-TRC, another worlds first, Electric Traction Control that restores traction if wheel slippage is detected. Oh and don’t forget Uphill Assist Control that prevent the Prius from sliding down when the brake is released during start-ups on your steep driveways.

But if you still manage to come face to face with a brick wall, the Prius has eight airbags, driver, passenger, side, front and rear curtain airbags, a starter button to reduce the risk of injury to the drivers knee from the traditional ignition key cylinder, front seatbelt pretensioners, three rear seatbelts, ISOFIX mountings as well as lots of body absorbing materials plus a Circuit Break Sensor that will automatically disconnect the High Voltage Power Circuit before the airbags are deployed.

I do think Toyota’s technology is incredible but it’s not just this that makes the car so unique. It’s a combination of the later, with amazing safety features, comfortable ride and lots and lots on board equipment as standard on the Spirit trim. The price tag is £20,665 so yes, you would have to drive many miles to get your money’s worth, which is, in fact, the essence because you can afford to as you whiz by yet another petrol station. . FemaleFirst Jackie Violet

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