2010 Toyota Prius Review

Specifications

Some cars are fortunate to eventually become iconic and gain a following similar to that of a cult. Usually, though, it takes years if not decades for that to happen. It’s only taken one decade for the Toyota Prius to do just that (selling 1.2 million cars along the way) and its 2010 version promises to keep the tradition going.

The unique, unmistakable shape is back. But it’s what you can’t see that is the real news for the Prius. The hybrid car has a mileage rating of 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. (That’s 3 mpg more than the previous model.) The combined mileage is 50 mpg, making it the first car to reach that mark. Doing the work is a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine that can put out 98 horsepower. The previous model was a 1.5 liter that produced 76 horsepower. With the help of its electric motor, the 2010’s horsepower increases to 134 (from the previous 110).

Gone in the new Prius are the drive belts for both the air-conditioning compressor and water pump. Instead, electric power is used to increase efficiency. The nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is smaller and joins the power control unit, electric motors and transaxle in being more efficient.

Handling is improved as well. The Toyota Prius is built on the midsize platform also seen in the Camry and a few Lexus models. The front suspension has better steering control and on-center feel while the precision has been boosted in the electric power-steering unit.

There also are three performance modes. In EV, the car can cover up to a mile at 24 mph maximum on just battery power. After that, it takes up to 30 miles of driving for a recharge. The ECO mode can be left on to moderate unpredictable driving habits. POWER can get the 2010 Prius to do 0 to 60 mph in 9.8 seconds - four-tenths of a second fast than last year’s model - but mileage will be reduced.

The 2010 Prius is a bit beefier at 3,042 pounds because of improvements for crash protection. It would have been even heavier but Toyota engineers made the drive train 20 percent lighter. There is also more room inside. There is 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which can grow if the rear seats are folded down in a 60/40 split.

Prices start at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $22,000 for the Prius II. (The entry-level Prius I is expected to be released in September at a slightly lower price). Total sales prices increase depending on the model and the accessories. For example, the Advanced Technology Package priced at $4,500 includes Intelligent Parking Assist, which practically parallel parks the car for the driver.

Whichever model is selected, the 2010 Toyota Prius is sure to start a new car-buying tradition in your family. You’ll be joining the others who already have.