Toyota Announces EPA Fuel Economy Estimates for New Prius

Bigger, Better, Faster and Cleaner, More Fuel Efficient, More Practical

Who makes the most fuel efficient midsize production car in the world? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it is Toyotas all-new gasoline-electric hybrid Prius.

The EPA just confirmed official fuel economy estimates for the 2004 Prius, stating that its fuel economy rating is 60 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway, with a combined city/highway rating of 55 mpg.

Not only is this an impressive number for any car, its solid improvement over the previous edition Prius combined fuel economy rating of 48 mpg is amazing, especially considering the new models growth in overall size and enhanced performance.

"The completely redesigned Prius will provide the best fuel efficiency rating of any mid-size vehicle in America," stated Don Esmond, Toyota Motor Sales senior vice president and general manager. "Whats more, with these EPA ratings the midsize Prius will return an even higher combined mileage rating than any compact sedan sold in America."

But fuel economy is only half the story, with the new models 30 percent fewer emissions over the outgoing Prius deserving of serious praise. This number results in approximately 90 percent less smog-forming emissions when put side-by-side with conventional internal combustion powered cars. In the end the new Prius has been certified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) as well as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV).

The best part of the equation is Toyotas solid bang for the buck proposition, delivering midsize interior seating accommodations compared to the old models compact dimensions, larger cargo capacity, improved power and handling, upgraded interior style and quality, enhanced standard features, and the list goes on, all for the exact same price as the outgoing model - $19,995. Now, unless youre family is the size of a small village, theres no legitimate excuse not to go green.