Check the list of standard equipment, and you'll see that the word economy" applies only to Prius in terms of fuel consumption. The fabric upholstery is as good as it gets. Automatic air conditioning with a micron filter is standard, as are power windows, door locks and heated outside mirrors; remote keyless entry; cruise control; a tilting steering wheel with redundant climate and audio controls; intermittent front and rear wipers; and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo.

Safety is enhanced with antilock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and traction control. Standard passive safety features include multi-stage, dual front airbags; three-point seatbelts and head restraints at all five seating positions; and rear seat head restraints that are adjustable. Curtain airbags designed to offer head protection for front and rear passengers and seat-mounted side-impact airbags for torso protection for driver and front-seat passenger are optional ($650).

Options are bundled into packages for 2005. Package 2 ($920) combines a security alarm, Homelink garage door opener, and Smart Key system. Package 3 ($1,100) combines the Smart Key System with the airbag package. Package 6 ($5,065) bundles all of the above with GPS navigation with voice recognition, Bluetooth capability, a nine-speaker JBL stereo with six-disc CD changer, electronic Vehicle Skid Control, fog lamps, and HID headlamps."

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