2004 Toyota Prius Owners Manual - Page 236

Vehicle load limits Vehicle load limits include total load capacity, seating capacity, towing capacity and cargo capacity. Follow the load limits shown below. Total load capacity: 379 kg (835 lb.) Total load capacity means combined weight of occupants, cargo and luggage. Tongue load is included when trailer towing. Seating capacity: Total 5 (Front 2, Rear 3) Seating capacity means the maximum number of occupants whose estimated average weight is 68 kg (150 lb.) per person. Depending on the weight of each person, the seating capacity given may exceed the total load capacity. NOTICE Even if the number of occupants are within the seating capacity, do not exceed the total load capacity. Towing capacity Toyota does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle. Your vehicle is not designed for trailer towing. Cargo capacity Cargo capacity may increase or decrease depending on the size (weight) and the number of occupants. For details, see "Capacity and distribution" that follows. CAUTION Do not apply the load more than each load limit. That may cause not only damage to the tires, but also deterioration to the steering ability and braking ability, which may cause an accident. Cargo and luggage- -Stowage precautions When stowing cargo and luggage in the vehicle, observe the following: D Put cargo and luggage in the luggage compartment when at all possible. Be sure all items are secured in place. D Be careful to keep the vehicle balanced. Locating the weight as far forward as possible helps maintain balance. D For better fuel economy, do not carry unneeded weight. CAUTION D To prevent cargo and luggage from sliding forward during braking, do not stack anything in the luggage compartment. Keep cargo and luggage low, as close to the floor as possible. 224