Common sense technology. The technology that enabled engine shut down, fuel efficient, smooth acceleration, quiet EV mode, lower emission etc...
While the Prius technology-wise was clearly ahead of its time, I think it's exterior stylings were also. When the gen II came out around '04 I didn't think it really looked that great. But as car designs from other companies have started to emphasize aerodynamics, the gen II is aging much better, imo.
High MPGs because it's a "hobby" and I believe our oil consumption from other lands is a national security concern.
Low emissions... and tech, I really like the integration of technology. High MPG is probably running around third.
All the above doesn't count in the poll cause it is contradictory! Style, tech, MPG vs FPG (fun per gallon), versatility!
I voted for MPG savings, but also the car is very high tech, which is attractive to me. A non-standard-cycle gasoline engine, two electric motor-generators, a huge battery, no belt, regenerative braking, an electric, computer-controlled, continuously-variable "transmission", and a button to start it. Uh huh. EDIT: Also, my wife prefers smaller cars (Echo/Yaris) and I prefer larger cars, and the Prius was an attractive compromise for us.
Other: Aside from fuel economy, it's a cool car because it has a lot of gadgets. Our '05 is still ahead of its time with the Smart Key, 7" touchscreen and if you get the nav pack, navigation and bluetooth (which was a rare option before 2006). Now, the 2010's gone further with radar cruise, pre-collision, lane keep assist, solar panel moonroof and so on. Even the Smart Key got an upgrade with a touch sensitive lock feature.
i went from a 2006 cadillac sts V8 to my prius. if i went "green" i wanted the "greenest" car i could find.....................therefore the prius.............. cheers
+1 Just started a job with a long commute, and have a gas guzzler luxury car, so having the MPG's plus HOV access was the motivator for a Prius.
I voted MPG savings, but it's more than that. I traded in an '08 Highlander Hybrid Limited, and the Prius IV has the amenities I wanted and the hatchback gives me 90% of the functionality of the Highlander, at double plus the gas mileage. And I still have HOV lane access.
#1 my wife said to. #2 all my gear fits. #3 I wanted the smallest, most fuel efficient car that held everything.
I clicked option 2 because in addition to the fuel efficiency, I liked the low emissions. I test drove a VW diesel car, but the emissions were higher. Model year 2004.
A teeny tiny "stick it to al Qaeda" gesture (but don't throw me into FHOP) ... plus mpg & tons of buttons. I like buttons lots of buttons