The Enviro-meter
We ordinarily compare a hybrid car to its non-hybrid version. But for this comparison, (since the Prius has no conventional version) we used one of the Prius' hottest competitors, the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid, to see how the numbers stack up.
Here's how the 2008 Prius Touring Edition's environmental impact tallies up, according to fueleconomy.gov:
- Petroleum Oil Consumption: 7.4 barrels of crude annually—compared to 8.2 barrels for the Civic Hybrid.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions:4.0 tons/year, where the Civic Hybrid will total 4.4 tons/year (driving an average of 15,000 miles per year).
- EPA Air Pollution Score: on a scale of 1 to 10 (best), scores in at an 8 and the Civic Hybrid surprisingly scores a higher 9.
Details and Specs
Technical Features: 1.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve with VVT-i Engine, Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT), electronic power steering system
Safety Features: driver and front passenger advanced front airbags, driver and front passenger side and curtain airbags, traction control, ABS, side-impact door beams, LATCH child restraint system
Interior Features: auto climate control with air filtration, AM/FM CD with 6 speakers, push button start, remote keyless entry, cruise control, multi-info display with energy monitor, tilt steering wheel with climate and audio control, 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat, power door locks and windows, carpet floor mats and cargo net, plus Package #3 which includes JBL 6-disc stereo system with Bluetooth capability and back-up camera
Exterior Features: 16-inch alloy wheels, low rolling resistance tires, P195/55/R16