The Toyota Prius is an economy car that has been in the Toyota line up since 2000. The 2011 Prius is still a very fuel efficient vehicle offering a strong option for these in the "green" car market. The Prius was one of the first true hybrids to hit the streets and is one of the strongest selling in this category to the day. This smaller vehicle offers many features that you would expect to find in a larger sedan and also offers huge hatchback that is great for those who need to move larger items using this tiny cars huge storage capabities.
After the initial market shock of how such a car could fit into the automotive industry and society, the Prius remains to be one of the leading vehicles in the hybrid classification. Starting just a little over $22,000 it does not seem that there is much of a premium added for the huge fuel economy offered in the Prius line up. The 2011 Prius claims to get 54 MPG in town and up to 48 MPG on the highway using its fuel cell and engine combination.
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
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.
Exterior
The new car is unmistakable as a Prius, yet the new body lines and overall shape make the previous generation model look instantly dated. The Prius has options including 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, and LED headlights.
Interior
The Prius features excellent fit and finish inside, plus cool gauges to monitor the hybrid system. Features such as DVD-based navigation, iPod connectivity, solar-powered ventilation system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane keep assist, and Intelligent Park Assist are available.
Performance & Handling
Fuel economy is an important part of the Toyota Prius hybrid's performance. The Prius is rated at 51 mpg city. In addition, the 134-horsepower system (up 24 horses from last year) gets the Toyota to 60 mph in 10.1 seconds. It also has impressive ride quality and impressive grip, plus the Prius only needs 121 feet to stop from 60 mph.
Safety
The Prius features driver and front passenger airbags, dual front side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags are standard. Also standard are traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution. Stability control is optional.
EPA Fuel Economy
Prius I, Prius II, Prius III, Prius IV, Prius V: 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Quality interior
- Great fuel economy
- Smooth ride
- Cool tech features
You Won't Like
- Hard-to-read gauges
- Parking system
- Not enough standard features
Sum Up
Still the best hybrid out there
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Insight
- Chevrolet Volt
- Nissan Leaf