While the technical stuff is interesting, the fun part is definitely driving it. This is a fantastic car. It was so smooth

The computer-controlled powertrain made for seamless transitions between the two engines. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

that I barely noticed the transition from gas to electric (other than the little noise the gas engine produced) because of the new "throttle-by-wire" system, or Electronic Throttle Control System (ECTS-i) technology in Toyota-speak. The computer-controlled powertrain made for seamless transitions between the two engines. The only gear-change that was noticeable was when I engaged the new "by-wire" shift control dashboard-mounted joystick into reverse. The car made a beeping noise to indicate that it was in reverse. It wasn't an unpleasant sound and was useful. Since the powertrain is so quiet, without the beep, beep, beeping reverse notification it might be possible to forget I was in reverse and back into someone by mistake.

Handling is also superb. The weight of the engines and battery pack gives the car a low center of gravity, making the car very stable and capable of executing tight turns at

For a 106 horsepower car, this thing can go. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

higher speeds. Not once did I lose traction from the P185/65R15 all season tires when pushing the Prius on the sinuous Sea-To-Sky highway near my home. The steering system reacted to input well too, making the driving experience feel less like a practical fuel miser and more like a well-refined sport sedan. I was a little disappointed that the Prius didn't have rear disc brakes, nevertheless, the front ventilated discs and rear drums with ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) made for efficient stopping in wet or dry weather. Speaking of the Sea-To-Sky Highway, I was curious to see how the 106 horsepower Prius would compare to more powerful conventional vehicles when in the passing lane. The Prius preformed marvelously. For a 106 horsepower car, this thing can go. Even when ascending up a hill, the Prius could pass. This has much to do with the car's commendable torque.