Editors' Choice, Car of the Year: 2004 Toyota Prius
Most significant car in 2004

What makes the 2004 Prius a worthy selection for Car of the Year, and, logically, Hybrid of the Year, is that this second-generation version hybrid is practically an all-new car and, as a world car, it's one of global significance. It's bigger, moving up to the mid-size sedan class, and its refinements, upgrades and amenities move it upstream in the market. Perhaps the most signifacnt improvement is that the new Prius power train moves along more quickly, a key component when it comes to the evolution of hybrid technology. Prius has moved from science project to mainstream player -- and a somewhat attractive one, at that. Its price and fuel economy, of course, are two of its best attributes, and its hybrid technology is the standard-bearer in the industry, offering 30 percent lower emissions than the first-generation Prius. Battery protection coverage -- a key issue with hybrids -- has been increased, to 8 years, 100,000 miles nationally -- 10 years in NY, CA, and MA.

Powered by a hybrid system with a permanent magnet-type, 40 hp electric motor and a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine (70 horsepower and 82 lb.-ft. of torque), the Prius has a net output of 98 hp., about as much as a typical compact car. Hydrocarbon output is about 30 percent less than last year's model, while the engine puts out 50 kilowatts and 500 volts, up from 33 kW and about 300 volts. Its EPA fuel economy rating--60 MPG/ city and 51/ highway, with a combined rating of 55 MPG-is a significant increase over the previous-generation Prius- a combined fuel economy rating of 48 MPG. Additionally, it has increased in size from a compact-class sedan to mid-size sedan; has more power and now accelerates on a par with the Camry LE; has optional the Smart Entry and Start system; optional curtain/side airbags; optional enhanced Vehicle Stability Control; with the same $19,995 MSRP as the original Prius.