2002 Toyota Prius

Toyotas hybrid-power subcompact now offers optional front side airbags, a navigation system, and cruise control. Prius seats five and is powered by both a 4-cyl gasoline engine and an electric motor. The two automatically work in tandem or separately, depending on power needs. Standard are a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), ABS, and air conditioning. The batteries are in effect kept charged by the gas engine, so Prius doesnt need plug-in charging. The warranty includes 8-year/100,000-mi. powertrain coverage and roadside assistance. Similar in concept are Hondas two hybrid-powered models: the Insight--a smaller, 2-seat hatchback--and the recently added Civic Hybrid sedan, both of which offer manual transmission or CVT automatic. Minimize