I just saw an Aztec yesterday, first one I'd seen in ages. At the time I thought "It looks like an ugly charicature of a Prius" because of the grossly similar shape, set-up, etc. I like the way the Prii look. I think the Aztec is definitely uuuuuugly. But as has been stated a number of times, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Higher Efficiency could never come from the 'Traditional' way....that's what we called 'Breakthrough'. The class-leading MPG rating in Prius is the result of both Hybrid drivetrain and unique low-drag body shape in combine to function as a System together. In between it didn't sacrifice Space and Practicality to perform like other 'traditional' vehicles should be. Prius doens't look ugly but unique. It actually looks more like a new mini-Sienna without sliding doors. (or the other way around as Prius started looking like this since 2004).
Hey, the Prius is cute, and it's a geek-magnet. I have guys asking me, all the time, if I like my car, and if it is really as great as they've heard. They aren't coming on to me, they are coming on to my car. It must be cute.
Very Simple. It is a Prius, not a Camry or a Pontiac! Also, cutting edge technology. You don't find cutting edge in a Pontiac. Camry hybrids get about 38mpg which is comparable to a Civic or Corolla. I don't think you'll find a comparably priced family sedan that gets 50mpg like the Prius. It is lighter than a Camry and honestly, Camry's are boring! Their style offends nobody nor does it impress. The Prius has a bit of a Wow factor involved. Before I bought mine, I said, Wow! That car is really ugly. But once I sat in it and drove it, I said Wow! This car is great even if it does lack in styling! It has grown on me and I think it's a beautiful car now! Maybe it'll have the same effect on you...try it! I have had mine for almost 3 years now and I can't imagine how boring it would be to drive a different car. Many gadgets=fun to drive!
my gray 08 with sharkfin and grey decal attracts all of my colleagues. bimmers and mercedes people here sayin that prius is a hot car... this is the funny thing, they ask me if possible to check the car and one of the guys sayin there is no room anymore at the back of the trunk because the battery is located there. they surprised when i remove the secret compartment and show where the battery is. they are amazed how huge the space at the back
I'm one of those that likes the look of the Gen II Prius. I agree with Rae - it's so darned cute! It actually reminds me in a roundabout way of the newer VW Bugs.
Most GM cars are ugly, and the Pontiac G5 is ugly too. I think the Prius is good looking, but I agree it does not have an "agressive" stance that is very popular. The Prius is truly beautiful in that it comfortably fits four adults, and has a huge cargo area with the seats folded down. Toyota made excellent decisions in the compromises that went into the design of the Prius. I also like the Dodge Magnum, but many people hate that car. I liked the Cadilac CTS the day that it came out in 2002? Most people hated it then, but now the style is generally well liked by most car magazine writers. New and Different auto body styles are often derided initially, then they become more an more popular. The Prius body shape is here to stay, and mark my word there will be copy cats coming out soon.
I used to think that the Prius was ugly. Now that I have one, I think its the best looking car on the market, primarily because it is unique and exotic. I think it looks best from the front, while parked, on a sight decline, with wheels turned to the right.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I like the look of the butt of the Prius from an angle (and also the butt of the Camry - straight on).
When I see another Prius approaching on the road, it doesn't strike me as great or bad looking, just kind of bland. From the sides and the back though, now that's a beautiful art form.
I remember that one of the supposed selling features of the Aztec was the very high hatchback -- you were supposed to be able to hook a special tent to the back panel and turn your car into a camper. Interesting idea. I wonder if the designers said, "Holy cow! That rear end is too big. How can we turn this negative into a positive? How about designing a special tent for it? OK...sure"
You want ugly, try this link: Sport Sportbil Saab 93 Automobile Sweden Racer a car from Sweden I tried to bring just the images. Ugly, but some of us loved 'em! Icarus
