Although we can truthfully brag that we're the first journalists to drive the new Prius, our trip consisted of but a short run within the confines of a photo studio. The maximum velocity achieved was 4 mph. Pressing the power button lights the electronic gear several seconds in advance of the engine softly shuffling to life. Outward visibility through the steeply raked windshield and the miniature front quarter windows is better than the view out the nearly horizontal glass hatch.
Will the new Prius hold its own against mounting hybrid competition, not to mention the diesel's return to grace? Is it good enough to counter growing interest in plug-in electric cars? Will it maintain Toyota's green lead until plug-in electrics arrive? We'll let you know the minute we plant our seats in the mouse fur for a longer test drive.
2010 Toyota Prius
BASE PRICE: $23,000 (est.)
Powertrain
ENGINE: DOHC 16-valve I-4
DISPLACEMENT: 1.8 liters (110 cu in)
HORSEPOWER: 98 hp @ 5200 rpm
TORQUE: 105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
BATTERIES: Nickel-metal-hydride, 202v
motor/generator: Permanent magnet AC, 80 hp, 153 lb-ft
TOTAL HORSEPOWER: 134 hp
TRANSMISSION TYPE: Electronic continuously variable automatic
Chassis
STEERING: Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
SUSPENSION, FRONT: Strut-type, coil springs
SUSPENSION, REAR: Torsion beam, coil springs
BRAKES F/R: Vented discs/discs, ABS
TIRE SIZE: 195/65SR-15
Measurements
L x W x H: 175.6 x 68.7 x 58.7 in
WHEELBASE: 106.3 in
FUEL MILEAGE: 50 mpg combined (est.) ...next page >>