The second-generation Toyota Prius caused such a paradigm shift that the first Prius -- which had gone on sale in the U.S. in 2000 -- has been somewhat forgotten. With its sizable, sedan-like interior, big cargo space under the hatch, and no compromise in power, the Prius caused people to stop rolling their eyes at the idea of "green" cars. The only thing that really took getting used to with the Prius was the odd-looking transmission shifter; even though it resembled a traditional automatic shifter, it was different, even having a mode abbreviated as "B" (engine braking). The Toyota Prius represented the first "real" hybrid with the right combination of usability and fuel economy, and it paved the way for many other hybrid models, including some from other manufacturers that used Toyota's system.For the third-generation Prius introduced in the 2010 model year, Toyota made the four-door hatchback roomier, the chassis more composed, and its Hybrid Synergy Drive system more efficient. The Prius powertrain is 90 percent new, and the gas engine is larger (now 1.8 liters), with 134 total horsepower and an estimated 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway.
The Range
Body styles: Four-door hatchback
Engines: 1.8L I-4
Transmissions: Continuously variable transmission
Models: Prius I, Prius II, Prius III, Prius IV, Prius V
Engines: 1.8L I-4
Transmissions: Continuously variable transmission
Models: Prius I, Prius II, Prius III, Prius IV, Prius V
What's New
Aside from a safety recall involving reprogramming the ABS, the 2011 Toyota Prius remains the same as it was last year. The Prius gained 24 horsepower over the last generation, better fuel economy (51 mpg city), quieter ride, improved handling, new looks, cooler eco gauges, nicer interior, and more space inside -- more cargo space, more legroom, more shoulder room, and more headroom.
Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2011/toyota/prius/index.html#ixzz1TC0pDKOm
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