Unmatched fuel economy, a space-efficient interior, and a quiet and comfortable ride make the 2010 Prius appealing to a wide audience.
The Prius is powered by Toyota's advanced gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine combines with a pair of electric motors (one for propulsion, the other an electrical systems generator) through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission (CVT). The result is a total system output of 134 horsepower.
The Prius will go from zero to 60 mph in about 10 seconds. The most important number, however, is fuel economy. The EPA estimates the 2010 Prius will return 51 mpg city/48 highway and 50 mpg combined.
The Prius features straightforward climate and audio controls that jut out toward the driver in a "floating console" that provides a storage area underneath. The hatchback body style provides more cargo capacity than a typical midsize sedan, while its backseat provides lots of space.
Safety features include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver knee airbag.