Toyota Prius

Rank: 2
Turning Radius: 17.1 feet
Length: 175.0 inches
Width: 67.9 inches
City Slickness: Stop-and-go-friendly hybrid powertrain; roomy interior; HOV-lane access for one occupant

Toyota’s futuristic-looking Prius is a great city car, thanks to an efficient small-car design and the top-technology gasoline/electric hybrid system that returns very impressive city fuel economy up to an EPA rating of 60 mpg. City driving is where the Prius is in its element. It’s actually quite peppy at lower speeds and handles reasonably well.

2006 Toyota Prius + click to enlarge | view slideshow >

It’s also veryeasy to park, which is done most of the time using the electric motor only. The interior is roomier than most other cars this small; four adults can fit quite comfortably, so load your colleagues in for the commute.

Published 05/24/2006