2010 Toyota Prius II Hybrid A Much Improved Third-Generation Hybrid Reviewed by Susan Frissell
	The 2010 Toyota Prius third-generation is available in one "grade" and five trim levels. Selected options are also available so that buyers can align with their budgets. Bigger on the inside, the new Prius is now equipped with Toyota''s latest version of its Hybrid Synergy System, delivering more power and performance, as well as better fuel economy. The new 2010 Prius is available in five trim levels: the Base Prius, $21,000; Prius II Hatchback, $22,000; Prius III Hatchback, $23,000; Prius IV Hatchback, $25,800; and Prius V Hatchback, $27,270. Our test model, a level II Prius, came equipped with quite a few standard features and unless you absolutely have to drive the top-of-the-line model, you're forfeiting very little; namely, the optional navigation/solar roof option. Our version II came equipped with a power sunroof. A step up in styling, the 2010 Prius resembles a "regular" car, not so much an odd, standout shape that tries to be different. The ride is for the most part, comfortable, but a little bumpy over rough roads. When opting for the power mode, the car is a little noisy, and noticeable when not engaged in the hybrid electric (eco) mode. The third-generation Prius is 0.6-inch longer than its predecessor, and comes with a larger, more powerful engine (1.8-liter vs. 1.5-liter). Its gasoline-electric hybrid combo is more powerful (134 hp vs. 110 hp), and the car a little heavier. The fuel economy, though takes a leap from the previous 48/45 mpg to a respectable 51/48 mpg. Hard to beat or ignore when considering regular cars and crossovers available today. Engine enhancements in the 2010 Prius include an air conditioning compressor and water pump that are both electric. The exhaust heat has been re-routed to heat the engine coolant, which results in less time for warmup and quicker hybrid interaction. Both electric motors in the new Hybrid Synergy Drive have been improved and are more compact: one, a generator; the other for Prius propulsion. The motors, transaxle, and power control unit/inverter are all 20 percent lighter than in the previous Prius. Likewise, the car's nickel/metal-hydride battery pack has more output but is more compact in size. Options on our test 2010 Prius included XM Satellite radio, $449; and Carpet floor mats and cargo mat, $200. The Prius isn''t exactly a bare bones car, and standard features include most of what the average driver would need or want, including all the latest in safety equipment, AM/FM/ MP3 CD player with six speakers and auxiliary audio jack, Satellite radio capability, remote keyless entry, push-button start, 6-way adjustable driver's seat and 4-way adjustable passenger seat, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with controls, center console with sliding armrest/storage, 60/40-split fold-down rear bench seat, auto climate control system, and power locks, windows, and locks. Safety equipment on the 2010 Prius II includes a driver/front passenger advanced air bag system, seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag, driver/front passenger active headrests, LATCH, ABS, enhanced vehicle stability control with TRAC, engine immobilizer, and tire pressure monitoring system.
SPECS MSRP: $22,000; total vehicle price $23,399; destination $750 Engine: Hybrid Synergy Drive System AT-P2EV, 1.8-liter DOHC 16V VVT 4-cylinder Transmission: continuously variable (CVT) Category: Midsize; body type: Hatchback Wheelbase: 106.3 in. Width: 68.7 in. Height: 58.7 in. Weight: 3,042 lbs., automatic; 3,722 lbs. manual Length: 175.6 in. EPA Fuel Economy: 51/48 mpg. Fuel tank capacity: 11.9 gal. Wheels: 15-inch alloy with covers Tires: 185/65R15 Warranty: 3-yr./36,000-mile Basic; 5-yr./60,000-mile Drivetrain; 5-yr./unlimited Rust Location of Final Assembly: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada