Toyota’s most famous model as the 21st century begun, the Prius sold originally inside Japan only. The electric–petrol hybrid was considered revolutionary, and was soon adopted by Hollywood celebrities who wanted to advertise their environmental credentials. Sales took off with the second-generation model, sold in more markets, helped by distinctive styling—trouncing the Honda Civic IMA Hybrid, which looked too much like the petrol-only model. Toyota, keen not to mess with a winning formula, evolved the look for the 2009 Prius, which brought back overtime to Toyota plants during a global recession.

• Toyota Prius (NHW10)
• Toyota Prius (NHW20)
• Toyota Prius (NHW30)

Marque: Toyota