My test Prius came with Package C, an additional $7,415 of features. It includes a DVD-based navigational system, vehicle stability

I can't think of a more ideal city car then the Toyota Prius. (Photo: Toyota Canada)

control (VSC), premium JBL Audio system with AM/FM stereo cassette, compact disc changer and nine speakers, front side airbags, smart key system, garage door opener, electrochromatic rear view mirror, theft deterrent system and fog lights. The price as tested came to $38,855 including freight and delivery. That's not a hefty price to pay for a vehicle that offers so much to its consumer. I was driving home from work one evening and I was stopped at a road block. I had to wait for a couple of minutes before pulling up to the police officer. I found it funny when he asked me if my car was running. I explained that it was, on the electric motor and not the engine. He then asked if the fuel economy was everything it was cracked up to be. Again I answered yes. At the end of my test week I found that I only ended up paying $27.00 for gas, having driven over 500 kms. That's fantastic, especially for the Prius' generous size. I can't think of a more ideal city car.

With all that said, it's not only those with six-figure-plus bank accounts who are jumping on the go-green bandwagon, it's everyday people who consciously want to make the world a greener place, without dishing out all the green, if you know what I mean.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $30,300 - $38,855
• Body Type: 5-door hatchback
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 76 hp, 82 lb-ft of torque, 1.5L 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder, VVT-i
• Electric Motor Voltage/Horsepower: 500V / 67 HP
• Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum with ABS
• Curb Weight: 1,295 kg (2,855 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume: 330 L (11.8 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 4.0 / 4.2 L/100 km (71 / 67 mpg)
• Warranty: 3 Year / 60,000 km
• Web site: www.toyota.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.