Review: 2010 Toyota Prius
One of the most popular hybrid vehicles around is the Toyota Prius. In recent times, interest in this car has seen a rise due mainly to the rise in global fuel supply contracts and gasoline prices and car buyer’s quest to travel further on less gas.
The new Prius has just about the same shape as its predecessors but with a sleeker and much sportier look. The 2010 model is just around an inch longer than the previous model. It is also just about less than an inch shorter on the interior which means a slightly less headroom than before. Rear seat occupants who are tall will find their hair brushing the roof.
The 2010 Prius now sports the newer and improved Hybrid Synergy Drive. The gasoline engine is a bigger and carries more power, which translates much easier cruising when on the highway. The electric motor is a bit smaller thus improving efficiency and contributing lesser torque.
Through some other mechanical improvements the fuel economy has seen a jump over previous models. This model now offers 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway.
There have also been some attempts to fix some of the faults that plagued previous Prius models. The previous steering problem no longer exists since they have now built a chassis that is more rigid and accompanied by an electric-assist steering system that has been revised. Sadly though, the Prius’ is not as fun as it ought to be to drive. The straight-line stability has seen much improvement making the car feel like any other ordinary car.
Other great features of this new model includes a sunroof that is solar powered, radar based cruise control that is adaptive, heated leather seats, and a pre-collision system. Also if you are one of those drivers who like to take your eyes off the road every now and then, the Prius has a lane-departure warning system. Buyers can also the self parking system as an option.
With the level of improvements that Toyota has placed in this new Prius model it is expected that this hybrid will continue to be top of the class among hybrids.
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