View other Test Drive stories by Mark Kennedy
Looking for a used or new car?
The Basics
› Model: 2016 Toyota Prius Four Touring› Engine: 1.8-liter four-cylinder with lithium-ion battery› Fuel economy: 54 mpg city, 50 mpg highway› Local dealers: Capital Toyota, Toyota of Cleveland, North Georgia Toyota› Price (as tested): $32,935
When was the last time you drove a car that could travel 100 miles on less than $4 worth of gas? Been a year or two, right? Maybe 1971?
Well, if you believe in the stock market adage "buy low and sell high," this might be the perfect time to look at a Toyota Prius Four, which can easily go 100 miles on four bucks of fuel.
With Chattanooga area gas prices holding just under $2 a gallon, many buyers may have stopped looking at gas-electric hybrid fuel misers like the Prius, which rose to prominence earlier in the decade when gas prices were pushing $4 a gallon.
Here's a thought: With OPEC recently announcing plans to tighten the world's oil supply, car loan interest rates ticking up due to this week's Federal Reserve actions and the supply of hybrids on dealer lots abundant, this might be a great moment to become a contrarian buyer.
Even if gas prices stay flat, the Prius Four is a reliable and spacious hatchback with great ratings. Our tester also has a futuristic two-tone, black-and-white interior that is either ultra-cool or borderline bizarre depending on your tastes.
' Just the facts: The Prius Four is a five-passenger hybrid hatchback with astounding fuel economy (54 mpg city!), funky styling and a comfortable, composed ride. The design is all-new for 2016 and incorporates refinements and a host of new safety-tech features. Our tester, in top-of-the-line touring trim, includes such standard luxury touches as leather-like synthetic upholstery, navigation and two-color display screens on the dash.
' Worthwhile option: The $1,705 premium convenience package includes a high-value list of upgrades such as a JBL sound system, SiriusXM radio and Safety Connect, which provides satellite roadside assistance and automatic collision notification.
' It's good for Chattanooga buyers because Daily commuters can expect 54 mpg in city/suburban traffic for a five-year fuel savings of $4,750 compared to a vehicle with average fuel efficiency. With the Chattanooga city property tax at about $1,000 a year, on average, that means your Prius may pay your tax bill. Crazy, right?
' How much? Our top-of-line tester lists for $32,935. Prius Four has a base price of $28,650.
' Cool stuff: The seats, interestingly, are among the most comfortable and supportive we have ever tested in a small car.
' We could do without: The avant garde black-and-white dash makes you feel like you've been swallowed by a Steinway piano.
' Wish list: With our mountain roads, we wish the Prius Four came with all-wheel-drive, perhaps using the system in the new Toyota RAV-4 hybrid.
' While you are looking: Also check out the Ford C-MAX hybrid.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress or 423-645-8937.