I love to drive. Well, let me qualify that, I love to drive cars that are small, agile, fast and maneuverable – not a fan of SUVs or any truck-like vehicles that masquerade as passenger cars. My BMW 325 served me very well. It’s a convertible, so I could feel the sun and wind all around me. It was fast and steady, responded to the slightest turn of the wheel and the turning radius was the envy of my Jaguar-driving husband. I felt young, carefree, in control and happy driving it – that is when there wasn’t any traffic interfering with my driving pleasure. But, when the time came to replace my beloved Beemer I had to choose.
Another 325 was certainly an option, but shouldn’t I branch out and get something different? I’ve coveted the 911 turbo for a very long time – but that was a little out of my reach and the Boxster, well, it just seems like a 911 wannabe.
But I’ve been feeling increasingly guilty about my carbon footprint. I replaced light bulbs with compact fluorescents. I combine as many errands as I can so I don’t have to drive too much. We’re getting ready to replace our old refrigerator with an energy-efficient one and I wait until the dishwasher is fully loaded to run it. I try to be responsible and I realized that I could reduce my footprint significantly if I drove a Prius.
I live in Los Angeles and these cute little PC cars are ubiquitous and I generally don’t like ubiquity all that much. But I have to say the car does make a statement. Since I got it, I’ve developed a “holier than thou” attitude toward those mere gas-guzzlers. When I stop at a light and my engine shuts down and I can’t hear anything in the cabin except the sounds of NPR, I feel smug. I am doing my part for the planet and I want everyone to notice. My husband calls it “The Pious,” and he’s not far from wrong.
As for the driving experience – it’s no BMW but it’s not a truck either. Alas, I do wish it was a cabriolet or at least had a sunroof, but I guess that would screw up the whole aerodynamic thing it’s got going. Aside from that, it’s a comfortable, pretty zippy little ride. There is a dead spot at the lower end but once it’s on the road, it’s not straining in uncongested freeway traffic The turning radius is almost as tight as the Beemer and it’s pretty responsive.
The cockpit is well-designed. The seats are comfortable and tall passengers in the rear seat always comment on the amount of knee space and head space. The instrument panel is forward enough for a presbyobic boomer like me to see without reading glasses – very important feature. It also looks space age-y and cool. The touch screen that monitors the mileage, also controls the radio, air and nav system. It’s easy to read but the fingerprints annoy me enough to keep a small dust cloth in the handy drawer at the bottom of the center console – handy storage spot.
Speaking of storage, the front seat alone has great storage – in the center console, door pockets and nifty split glove compartment. The trunk is roomy, before you fold down the seats to open it all up. The deck raises to reveal hidden storage underneath and there’s room for a spare. Nicely done.
Overall, I love the Prius. But I do have a theory that other drivers see the hybrid and assume I’m a passive driver who won’t mind (or at least won’t object) when they cut me off or weave in front of me. Take a look at Al Gore, Jr. – it was reported that he was doing 100 mph in his Prius – I’m not saying it’s right to do that but remember, just because someone is trying to save the planet doesn’t mean they don’t like to drive. So, watch out. I may be green but I’m no saint.
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