Toyota - Prius

2004 onwards 

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Prius is a spacious, comfortable family car that's frugal and efficient thanks to its unique power-plant. But it's expensive, and used buyers are reluctant to pay high prices for first-generation models.

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	Clean, green and economical
	Good to drive and quite lively
	Well equipped and comfortable
	Much costlier than conventional rivals
	Heavy depreciation
	Possible future resale problems

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Prius is a family car with a 'green' conscience. It has a hybrid engine system; a conventional 1.5-litre petrol unit and a unique electrical motor combine to optimise fuel consumption.
This works incredibly well. Quick to accelerate from rest and with smooth power delivery, Prius feels similar to a turbodiesel in performance terms, but fuel consumption is even lower. Almost 66 mpg is astounding from a medium-sized family car.
The good news is that Prius works very well as family wheels, too. Five adults sit comfortably, although the boot is on the small side. Noise levels are minimal on the move, the ride is very smooth, and it's easy to drive.
Toyota's usual high build quality inspires confidence even if the dashboard takes some getting used to.
Because it's not a conventional car, it costs more new and may prove difficult to resell. Otherwise it's brilliant and it's saving the planet!