Toyota Prius Hatchback (2004 - 2009) 1.5 VVTi T Spirit Hybrid 5d CVT Auto (2007/07) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I'm really not bothered what others think - I chose this for me, not my image. However when I explain the logic and they try the car, most people are jealous and understand entirely!
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Fascinated by the technology - and its simplicity of use. There is still huge misunderstanding of this car, and lots of rubbish in the press. Go try it for yourself and make your own mind up. The new one is even better all round - just had a 24hrs test drive, did 400 miles at 67.4 mpg - fantastic! At that figure I should be making over 5 pence on every business mile I drive!
Would you buy this car again and why?
Most definitely - but the new 09 model, since its new features make it even better. Before I bought this one I hired one for a week - and still bought it. No regrets, and every time I submit my expenses I smile!
What are you likely to buy next?
Silly question - if you've read this far you'll know! Probably another Prius!
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
May 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
N/A - lease car provided by my company
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
£26 per month company car tax, and nothing else touches it!
What was the dealer like?
Cambridge Toyota - first class in every way. I'd be very happy to use them forever!
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Overall - effortless. if you are going to thrash it, go for a diesel for better figures - but I drive at normal speeds, and get 55mpg which equates to around 8pence per mile. I get paid 12 pence per mile business mileage! So at £26 per month company car tax and 4 pence per mile profit, it's a no-brainer - oh, and I help the environment too! (which is not my main reason at all but it is still good to do the right thing)
What's it like to park?
Excellent visibility made even easier by the reversing camera - once you have used this you'll wonder why all cars don't have them now.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No - its a Toyota, what would you expect! Now on 85,000 miles and still as good as new. UPDATE - in the recent snow(Jan 2010) just great with sensible tyres and great roadholding.
What's most practical about your car?
So easy and efficient to drive. Behind the scenes it is all very sophisticated - if you want to go into all that - but practically, just press the 'go' pedal to go, and the 'stop' pedal to stop. couldn't be simpler - it is exactly what we all need for efficient motoring in modern conditions!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Reversing camera, Sat nav and bluetooth handsfree. It just does so much that 2years and 70,000miles on I am still learning little tricks it can do!
