The 2010 Toyota Prius hybrid has reached the top level of fuel economy. It estimates of 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The exterior design is updated and more aerodynamic, but keeps the distinctive, hybrid-only hatchback styling that has made the second-generation Prius so iconic. Technological improvements have made the powertrain more efficient, but it's also more powerful: the 98-horsepower, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder gas engine works together with an electric motor to produce a peak 134 horsepower. That's up from 110 horsepower in the previous 1.5-liter model. Tests drivers of the 2010 Prius say they easily achieved gas mileage well above 50 mpg and put up much higher numbers when applying careful, conservative hypermiling techniques.
The new Prius remains a midsize hybrid car with a roomy interior, although rear-seat legroom is a bit tighter than before. Cargo space is up to 21.6 cubic feet, and the rear seatback still folds down for more utility. The Prius' all-new chassis results in a stable, pleasant ride. A significant complaint about the former Prius model is its mediocre handling and non-communicative steering. Road noise is still an issue with the new car, especially on rough pavement, reviewers say. Many critics praise the Prius for driving more like a conventional midsize car that just happens to get extraordinary fuel economy.
A variety of trim levels start with the Prius II , stepping up to III, IV and V, each with more standard equipment and available options. Standard features on all include electronic stability control, cruise control and power windows with automatic up/down feature. Optional features include a navigation package with backup camera, solar-powered ventilation system, adaptive cruise control and Intelligent Park Assist, which helps the Prius to parallel park itself. A new lane-departure warning system is also available in the 2010 Prius. Toyota says it will introduce a lower-priced base model later in the model year, called Prius I, with fewer features.
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