Jerry Robbin

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The next generation (2010) Prius is a “Green Machine”, that can cruise around town for 600 miles on one tank of gas! The new Prius can get 51mpg city and 48mpg Hwy. For 2010, Toyota gave the Prius a wider track and new low-rolling resistance tires. In addition, interior space is increased with enough space for 5 adults.

Safety

The 2010 Prius comes with the following standard safety equipment:

• Electronic Stability Control
• 4-Wheel ABS
• Child Seat Lower Anchorage
• Adjustable Upper Belt – Front
• Pretensioner
• Energy Management Feature
• Advanced Air Bag Features
• Side Airbag – Front
• Head Airbag – Front
• Trunk Release
• Tire Pressure Monitor

Under the Hood

Before peering under the hood, I asked to myself, “What kind of drive train can get such great mileage?” I opened her up and Voila, the Prius gasoline engine portion of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy System was staring at me. It develops 98-horsepower (a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle in-line 4) from gasoline, 22hp more than the 76 horsepower 1.5-liter motor it replaced. Net horsepower, which includes a boost from the electric motors, increases to 134, as opposed to the 110hp the previous model achieved.

Driving Experience

The Prius has a very comfortable ride and the handling is superlative during quick turns. The steering is effortless when driving around town and dynamic on the highway.

The switch between the electric motor and gasoline engine was as smooth as silk and effortless whether driving in the city or on the highway.

With this Prius, you’ll almost never need to visit the gas station due to the phenomenal economy rating of 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. The Prius has an 11.9-gallon gas tank, so your fill ups, as infrequent as they are, will never break the bank.

Inside

The interior of the new Prius is highlighted with the control center, which is centered in the middle of the dash. It took me a day or so to get used to the position of the dash, but once you get used to its location the data available from it is easy to access. Prius owners will have the opportunity to three new driving modes — Eco, Power and EV (electric-only)! Information is available in the new multi-information display. From this control center you can view volume and climate control readings. A nice new feature is the steering wheel mounted Touch Tracer Display. All controls in proximity to the steering wheel can be accessed with ease such as the volume for the radio, wipers, turn signal and cruise control.

The interior space seems like you are in a full size car and the headroom will make even a 6-footer feel comfortable. The position of the dashboard makes you feel that there is plenty of space for the driver and front passenger. The interior has plenty of bright light inside due to the size and positioning of the windows.

Outside

The Prius has a unique design, which by now has become the symbol of the hybrid revolution. The redesigned 2010 Prius has subtle styling changes from its predecessor, but the refinement is noticeable upon review. The Toyota Prius is a dynamic vehicle and has a somewhat futuristic, yet muscular stance.

Summary

If you are looking for a hybrid, then you owe it to you and your family to test-drive all-new 2010 Prius. A unique vehicle that can average 50mpg, it will provide you with all of the creature comforts needed, and will still turn heads on the road.

Specifications

Curb weight (lb.) 3042

Seating capacity 5

Passenger volume (cu. ft.) 93.7

Luggage capacity (cu. ft.) 21.6

Fuel tank (gal.) 11.9 gal

Exterior Dimensions (in.) Overall height/width/length 58.7/68.7/175.6 58.7/68.7/175.6

Wheelbase 106.3

Track (front/rear) 60.0/59.8
Minimum running ground clearance 5

Interior Dimensions

Front/rear (in.) Head room 38.6/37.6

Shoulder room 54.9/53.1

Hip room 52.7/51.2

Legroom 42.5/36.0

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