Back to the midsize model's newfound spaciousness, its improved cargo volume gets better when dropping the 60/40 split rear seatbacks forward, something the old Prius didn't do. Rear seat legroom is also much better, with room to stretch out even when the front seats are fully extended.

Toyota, already the envy of the automotive world when it comes to build quality, upped its standards yet higher with the new Prius. (Photo: Toyota)

Its quality of workmanship is extremely good. Toyota designed the Prius to last, wanting their rolling billboard to act as a mechanical spokesman for the brand's environmental image. What they don't need are problems with reliability, shoddy construction or cheap tactile quality. While that might seem like a no-brainer, you'd be surprised at the poorly made vehicles that pass through some automaker's press fleets. Toyota, already the envy of the automotive world when it comes to build quality, upped its standards yet higher with the Prius, wanting to make sure its problems per 100 vehicles would be the lowest in the industry. While it's too early to tell how they've done, the previous version experienced one of the highest ratings among Toyota's lineup - not a bad indication of things to come.

For a car under $30K the 2004 Prius comes equipped with a nice list of standard features, including a CD audio system, cruise control, heated side mirrors, and remote keyless entry. (Photo: Toyota)

While reliability is paramount customers still want the convenience features they've grown accustomed to. The 2004 model features more standard equipment than the previous Prius, including automatic air conditioning with air filtration, steering wheel controls for the air conditioning and audio system, cruise control, heated side mirrors, power windows and door locks, plus remote keyless entry. Not bad for under $30K.