The unique sensation of driving a vehicle powered by electrical energy is as surreal as it is exciting.
What is even better with the new Toyota Prius c is that the colourful digital dashboard displays an engine network that allows you to see where your power is coming from, and how much ‘juice’ your battery has left.
This hybrid Toyota is a beautifully smooth machine to drive, despite the fact it regularly flits between gas and battery power on Bermuda’s tighter and slower roads.
Spacious
The class E-vehicle boasts a comfortable black leather interior and chrome finish and will set you back a reasonable $39,500.
On top of the price tag, this car’s environmentally-friendly hybrid nature will save you plenty of dollars in the long run too.
And at the end of each journey, the digital display will tell you how much fuel you have saved.
The four-door Prius c comes with push button start and central locking key discs that just have to be in, or close to the vehicle for you to be able to start up the engine.
It’s an automatic vehicle and costs about $68 to fill up the tank from empty.
This Prius c also sports plenty of modern accessories, such as electric windows and automatic fold-in wing mirrors, as well as a nice little CD stereo system and efficient air conditioning units.
There are also USB / power points in the front so you can plug in your iPod. The Prius c also offers the option of using Bluetooth.
The smart leather steering wheel has radio and air conditioning controls, so you don’t have to take your hands off the wheel as you change tunes or temperature.
There is also plenty of head and leg space in the back and front, making the Prius c an ideal family car.
The trunk is also spacious with plenty of room for a modern day family’s belongings.
Just under the handbrake are a couple of buttons that allow you to choose a more economical mode of driving.
The EV and ECO functions mean that the car is solely powered by the battery, but as soon as that runs out of power the car defaults back to fuel power.
The transition between gas and battery power is surprisingly seamless and you do not lose acceleration or control.
The only slightly off-putting moment is when the roar of the engine disappears and is replaced by the almost silent hum of the battery power supply.
But it is something you quickly get used to.
Overall the Prius c is a modern, functional and smart car that does not lose anything in performance because it is a hybrid.
It holds the road well and offers a smooth and comfortable drive.
The robust structure, sleek shape and numerous safety features mean this vehicle is safe and secure and is ideal for a family.
It is also likely to save you plenty of dollars in the long run and make you feel like you are doing your bit for the environment.
• To take the new Prius c for a test drive or to find out more, call Bermuda Motors on 292-0893 or drop into the showroom at 63 Church Street, Hamilton.