These are proposed tuning packages, though the quad exhaust is already available in Japan. The new trim will also include your choice of 18-inch wheels and, of course, a lowering kit. While being closer to the ground might actually reduce drag, we're not sure if the "aero" kits will actually be more aerodynamic than the stock setup.

[Tommy Kaira via Carscoop]

Automotive News reported late yesterday that, at a dealer meeting in Las Vegas on Tuesday and Wednesday, Toyota executives said the name Prius would be attached to "a family of models" using similar hybrid powertrains, says veteran Toyota dealer Earl Stewart.

Toyota will have a range of Prius hybrid models "but Prius won't be a separate sub-brand like Scion," Stewart says.

"The Highlander hybrid and Camry hybrid do OK, but calling it ‘Synergy Drive' never resonated with consumers," Stewart says. "But they can make hay on the Prius name. It's a magic name. If somebody says ‘I drive a Prius,' everybody knows what he means."

Toyota Motor Sales COO Jim Lentz has been pushing for a multi-platform Prius lineup for a year. But this was the first time it has been openly discussed in front of TMS President Yoshi Inaba and Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda. [via Automotive News]

My first ride in a hybrid vehicle was on a cold and damp winter afternoon four years ago in Budapest traffic, returning from a photoshoot for my then-employer’s Christmas card, which depicted a twisted nativity scene (if you must, you can see yours truly in a skimpy lamb suit at this hyperlink). The then-new Lexus RX400h was the perfect vehicle for crawling along at 5 MPH: eerily silent, very comfortable and with the added touch of environmental relief. Nino Karotta and I watched in awe the cute tree icons we received from the car after every 50 kW or so produced, as if they were bonuses in a videogame.

It was not hard to imagine roaming the countryside in a Toyota hybrid and have trees sprouting in our wake, substituting biomass for a hybrid car’s actual emissions, which are made not of cellulose but of noxious smoke. Less smoke, but smoke nevertheless.

This was years before Toyota itself produced an advertisement for the Prius on this very theme, titled Harmony, which is by far the most hippy thing I’ve ever seen. YouTube’s robotic brain seems to agree: it’s throwing up all sorts of Woodstock footage as related video.

Toyota is now following up its ad with live flowerscapes made of 20,000 flowers each, planted by California’s freeways. I’m hoping they also plan on making a digital version of it, where a program in the Prius’s computer would light up a pixel representing a single flower after every 50 kW produced. Then, upon completion of the entire image of a thousand megawatts, you would get hit with an upgrade notice for a Lexus. You can’t re-plant the entire Amazon Basin with a single car, after all, can you?

Photo Credit: Toyota USA, Balázs Fenyő, Lexus

To earn a top safety pick a vehicle must get top ratings in front, side, and rear tests. They must also be equipped with electronic stability control. While none of these things make a car any more fun to drive, they certainly make them more comforting to crash. The Insight and Prius were sort of givens and we're not altogether surprised about the Soul as it competes with the Honda Fit and Scion XB, both of which won the award last year.

The IIHS was kind enough to include some Kia Soul and Honda Insight carnage, which you can view below.

<img src="http://cache.gawker.com/assets/stills/insight_front_jalopnik.flv.jpg"

It's one of those 'high concept disguised behind something cool' commercials and to the untrained eye, it just looks like people taking the place of nature, moving in concert to look like grass and water and trees and the like. To the creators it's symbolic of the connection between nature and automobiles and people. Whatever, it looks neat, even though in reality the new Prius will happily consume your soul with its blandness. [via Youtube]

Toyota's released a series of videos explaining how some of the features on the new Prius work — everything from how to turn on the headlights to how to use this, the solar powered ventilation system.

Basically, the system circulates air while the car's parked. Pretty trick idea if you ask us — especially given how much drivers reportedly love their own scent. Also, it has the added benefit of releasing any of your trapped (and obviously quite sweet-smelling) gaseous rectal emanations back into the environment. Ah, the sweet smell of fresh air! [via Toyota]

Thanks to Brent for the tip! [Source: Current]

Toyota isn't releasing details on which equipment that $21,000 base model will bring you, but all the important stuff - 50 MPG combined and room for five adults - will still be present. Spending more buys you added luxury, technology and driving competence.

When I reviewed the 2010 Prius I found the standard, 15" wheel model had a much improved driving experience, on par with the 2010 Honda Insight, but it's really the 17" wheel Prius V, with its revised steering ratio and firmed up dampers that questions the traditional poor-driving hybrid stereotype. It's actually fun to drive and will set you back $27,270.

Buyers can add three option packages: the $1,500 Navigation Package, which does what it says on the tin; the $3,600 Solar Roof Package, which includes navigation and the ambient-temperature controlling solar sunroof in addition to remote A/C; the $4,500 Advanced Technology Package, which also includes Nav, but adds Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, Lane Keep Assist and Intelligent Parking Assist — basically it drives for you. None of the options packages are available on the base Prius, the Solar Roof isn't available on the Prius V.

The $750 destination and delivery fee is not included in any of the above MSRPs.

If we were to spec a Prius, it'd be the 17" wheel Prius V with nothing but the Navigation Package. That includes all the bells and whistles we'd want - leather, LED lights, fog lamps, nice stereo - but most importantly, it drives like a European hatchback while returning far greater fuel mileage.

TOYOTA ANNOUNCES PRICES FOR 2010 PRIUS

Prius I: $21,000
Specs: TBA

Prius II: $22,000
1.8-liter Atkinson cycle engine
P195/65 R15 all-season tires with alloy wheels & covers
Smart Key (driver's door) and Push Button start
EV, Eco, and Power modes
Multi-Informational Display with energy monitor and fuel
consumption history
AM/FM/MP3 CD player with six speakers and
satellite radio capability and auxiliary audio jack
Cruise control
STAR Safety System and active front headrest
Seven airbags including driver knee airbag
Four-wheel disc brakes
Tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and HVAC
Controls with Touch Tracer Display
Six-way adjustable driver seat
Auto up/down on all windows
Color-keyed foldable power heated side mirrors

Prius III: $23,000
JBL AM/FM/MP3 six-disc CD changer with eight speakers
Integrated satellite radio capability
Hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless
Technology

Prius IV: $25,800
Three-door Smart Key system
Leather-trimmed interior
Heated front seats with driver lumbar support
Driver and front passenger water repellant windows
Plasmacluster™ ionizer
Auto dimming mirror with HomeLink®

Prius V $27,270
17-inch alloy wheels and P215/45 R17 tires
LED headlamps with auto leveling and washers
Integrated foglamps

Navigation Package: $1,800
Voice-actived touch-screen
DVD navigation system with
JBL AM/FM/MP3 four-disc CD
changer, eight speakers, integrated
satellite radio capability, XM
NavTraffic capability, hands-free
phone capability and music
streaming via Bluetooth wireless
technology and integrated backup camera

Solar Roof Package: $3,600
Includes Navigation Package equipment
plus power tilt/slide moonroof with
Solar Powered Ventilation System
and Remote Air Conditioning System

Advanced Technology Package: $4,500
Includes Navigation Package equipment
plus Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
(DRCC), Pre-Collision System (PCS),
Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Intelligent
Parking Assist (IPA)

TORRANCE, Calif., April 21, 2009 - - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.,
announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) today for the all-new
2010 Prius midsize hybrid, scheduled to go on sale beginning in late May at Toyota
dealers nationwide.
The third-generation Prius will be available in one grade with a starting MSRP
of $21,000. The Prius will be offered with five levels of popular standard equipment
combinations.
"The 2010 Prius delivers outstanding mileage, performance and advanced
technology at a great price," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general
manager of the Toyota Division.
Carter sees the most popular model starting at an MSRP of $22,000,
equipped with a high level of standard features, "This model provides more than
$2,000 added value, including the features most buyers want, at the same price as
the current base model" he said.
A new base model with a lower level of standard equipment is scheduled to
be available later this year. It is designed to appeal to the most cost-conscious
businesses and consumers.
Celebrated as the benchmark for cars of the future, the Prius has delivered
superior fuel economy and ultra-low emissions to more than 1.2 million owners
worldwide for over 10 years. When it goes on sale, the 2010 Toyota Prius will once
again set new standards for innovative hybrid design and technology, raising its level
of convenience features and performance to new heights, including EPA fuel
economy estimates of 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway and 50 mpg combined (EPA
MPG estimates, actual mileage will vary).

The third-generation 2010 Prius will offer enhanced performance and
innovative design features. It will be quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced
standard and available features such as four driving modes, steering wheel touch
controls that display on the instrument panel, a moonroof with solar panels, and
Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA).
The Prius is equipped with Toyota's industry-leading Hybrid Synergy Drive
and certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-
PZEV), emitting over 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average
new vehicle. A larger and more powerful yet more efficient 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle,
four-cylinder engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. Together with its
electric motor the hybrid system in the new Prius will generate a combined net
horsepower of 134, an increase of 24 horsepower over the previous generation.
All Prius models offer Toyota's Star Safety System™ as standard equipment,
which includes enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control
(TRAC) Systems, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force
Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Other standard features include electric
power steering and four-wheel disc brakes.
Starting fall 2009, select Prius models will include Toyota's all-new telematics
service, Safety Connect™, which will offer four safety and security features:
Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance
Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance. Safety Connect will be available by
subscription, with an included one-year trial subscription.
Adding to the appeal of Prius is an additional array of standard convenience
features on most models that include automatic air conditioning equipped with an
electric air compressor; AM/FM/MP3 CD player with six-speakers and satellite radio
capability; driver door Smart Key system with Push Button Start and remote
illuminated entry; a Multi-Informational Display with an energy monitor and fuel
consumption history; six-way adjustable driver seat; power door locks; auto
up/down on all windows with window jam protection; cruise control; tilt/telescopic
adjustable steering wheel with audio and HVAC controls; color-keyed foldable power
heated side mirrors; dual sun visors with vanity mirrors; and tonneau cover.

Prius also brings many new firsts to the Toyota lineup. To help increase fuel
efficiency, the 1.8-liter engine is beltless, uses an electric water pump, a new
exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and an exhaust heat collection system.
Other Toyota firsts include a new Touch Tracer Display, which features touch
sensors on the steering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye
movement for better concentration on the road; an available sliding glass moonroof
is packaged with solar panels that power a new ventilation system; a remote air-
conditioning system functions on battery-power alone, and allows remote operation
so the driver can cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car.
Also new to Toyota is an available Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system that
uses advanced millimeter wave radar. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist,
which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System,
which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is
unavoidable.

Base MSRPs do not include a delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee
of $750. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf
States Toyota (GST) may vary.

[Bloomberg]

With yesterday's 2010 Toyota Prius Review, we've now driven all three major competitors in the Greener-Than-Thou segment. Let's take a look at how the new Prius stacks up against the bigger, mid-size 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid sedan (which normally would play against Toyota's larger Camry Hybrid, but since the Fusion's already kicked it's tail in fuel economy, we thought we'd move it up from the JV Hybrid Car Wars to the Varsity level), the 2010 Honda Insight and, sort of like a control subject, a 1990 Geo Metro XFi. We'll take a look at how each plays against each other when it comes to fuel economy, size and space, performance, driving dynamics and price. So finally, we can answer the question: Which new hybrid car should you buy?

Fuel Economy:

Adjusted for the new EPA standards, we're amazed that the 19-year old Geo Metro XFI turns in better highway fuel economy than any of the hybrids. Predictably, the Toyota Prius, with its stop/start engine and large battery pack manages to best it in the city cycle, but neither the Insight nor Fusion Hybrid can do the same.

We've tried hypermilling the three hybrids, managing 43.8 MPG in the Ford Fusion Hybrid in city driving, figures in the low 60 MPG range with the Insight and low 70s with the Prius, both in mixed driving. While specific comparisons shouldn't be drawn based on those numbers, they do indicate the ability of each to exceed their official EPA ratings by driving like a grandparent; the Fusion Hybrid can barely manage it, while both the Insight and Prius easily exceed them.

A quick Google search reveals tales of owners averaging 60-70 MPG in Metro XFis in realistic conditions.

Size/Space:

The compact-class Honda Insight has 85.0 cubic feet of passenger space, considerably less than the mid-size Fusion and just-sub-mid-size Prius. They measure 99.8 and 93.7 cubic feet respectively. Since they're hatchbacks, both the Insight and Prius are more flexible for carrying cargo than the Fusion; the Ford only has 11.8 cubic feet of space in its trunk, while the Insight manages 15.8 with its seats up, the Prius measures 21.6. A larger car with more space in the rear seat, the Prius's storage room is noticeably larger than the Insight with the rear seats folded flat.

The Geo is absolutely tiny, at 146.1" it's over two feet shorter than the Insight.

Toys:

All three hybrids have noted that the largest determining factor in fuel economy is the driver and taken steps to give them the tools to drive in the most fuel-efficient manner. The Honda Insight does this with both an "Econ" button that, like Prozac, removes the highs and lows from throttle inputs and an aggregate display of your fuel economy history, complete with Game Boy-worthy graphics and simulated medals for good performance. Supplementing that is a more immediate glowing surround for the speedometer, it turns bright green when you're driving economical, before fading to dark blue when you're not.

Honda's is a more effective system than the equally low-tech display in the Prius, which provides drivers with only a confusing bar graph that tracks from "Charge" to "Power" and a history of your recent fuel economy figures.

The Ford SmartGauge with EcoGuide, on the other hand, provides drivers with a myriad of tools "empowering" them to make full use of the hybridized drivetrain to achieve maximum fuel economy. In addition to a seriously useful sliding indicator of how much throttle opening you can use while remaining in EV mode, it features a section of nicely-animated leaves that whither and die, or bloom and grow depending on your driving habits. It also shows you when you're using regenerative braking and how much charge it's sending to the batteries. Seriously, it's a sexy-looking system that will have a real impact on your fuel economy.

The Metro has a five-speed manual gearbox.

Price:

The Insight's Raison d'être is to offer people who want a Prius a cheaper option. Unfortunately, at $19,800 (before $670 in destination, license and registration) it looks like it'll only be about $2,700 cheaper than the more fuel-efficient 2010 Prius. It's estimated that car will come in around $500 more expensive than the 2009 model, which starts at $22,00. The Fusion Hybrid is considerably more expensive at $27,270, but comes loaded with options.

Then there's the used Metro Xfi, they're hard to find (especially in good condition), but prices have come down from last summer's fuel-crisis high of $7-8,000; expect to pay less than $3,000 for a good one.

Driving Dynamics:

The Fusion Hybrid has a clear performance advantage, hitting 60 MPH a second faster than the 2nd place Prius. While none of these are what you'd consider true driver's cars, both the Ford and Toyota are perversely fun to drive. Sadly we can't say the same of the Insight, which is merely competent. The Insight is also far less refined than either the Prius or Fusion Hybrid; both of those cars ride and isolate noise like luxury cars.

The used Metro is ridiculously slow, unrefined and doesn't come with things like modern tires, suspension or brakes. At 19-years old, it's also likely to be suffering from mechanical problems.

Image:

There's no denying the pop culture resonance of the Toyota Prius. It's the choice of vacuous, eco-friendly image-seeking celebrities everywhere. Buy one and you'll instantly appear to be the greenest family on your block. The Insight, which adopts a similar look, will benefit from riding the Prius's coattails and from the name recognition its first-hybrid-vehicle-ever predecessor lends it. It's a hard case for the Ford, which needs to rely on all its leafy "hybrid" badges to make a case for itself.

Driving a crappy old Metro in front of anyone but an extremely savvy hypermilling enthusiast will simply make you look like you didn't get into Meth production until the market was already flooded.

Which Hybrid Should I Buy:

You may be wondering which car you should buy as your first Hybrid, or which one makes the most convincing case for the current Hybrid owner to trade up to a better vehicle. What about people who don't want to sacrifice driving dynamics in the pursuit of economy or just want a cheap, practical, fuel-efficient vehicle for their commute? The answer for all those people is the 2010 Toyota Prius. Not only is it the most fuel-efficient new vehicle for sale in this country, but it's the most practical vehicle here, at a size larger than the Insight with plenty of room for both people and packages. Combine both those advantages with driving dynamics that are on par with the Ford Fusion Hybrid and what should be a very reasonable starting price and you have an incredibly complete package. Then there's the reputation; this new Prius finally lives up to it, we just wish it had Ford's SmartGauges.

Notes:
- All numbers quoted have been provided by the manufacturers. Exceptions are clearly distinguished by "(Est)" which indicates an educated estimate has been made.
- Fuel economy figures quoted come from the Environmental Protection Agency and are in US gallons. 1 US gallon = 1.2 Imperial gallons.
- The EPA mileage test changed in 2008 to a much more stringent standard. Vehicles tested before the change typically returned xx% better economy than the do now. For example, the 2007 Toyota Prius was rated at 55 MPG combined before and 46 MPG combined after the change. This new standard is widely considered to be more accurate than European tests. For example, the Honda Insight is officially rated at 64.2 MPG combined in the United Kingdom. That's 53.5 MPG in US gallons, 12.5 MPG more than it's rated at here.

You might think it odd we bothered to find that out since the first two Prius generations were hardly vehicles meriting anything approaching spirited driving. But this third generation vehicle, fitted with a larger 1.8-liter engine producing a net 134 HP is actually pretty fun to drive, at least when equipped with the optional 17-inch wheels.

Those wheels bring with them a quicker steering rack, firmer dampers and less efficiency-oriented tires. The result is a car that drives less like a rolling tub of Jello and more like you think a mid-size hatchback that hits 60 MPH in 9.8 seconds equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission should. In fact, it's good enough we spent the majority of a day driving it on twisty Northern California roads, overtaking many, supposedly faster vehicles, and generally enjoyed harming the environment. In a Prius.

Driving up to Sonoma from San Francisco in a second generation Prius - the one that's currently on sale - during a terrible thunderstorm, the experience couldn't have been more different. As someone who's spent years carefully honing his driving skills, my feeling of safety in a vehicle is in direct proportion to the amount of control I have over it. The second gen Prius delivers virtually nothing in the way of feel from either the steering or brakes, yaws like a ship in corners, is ridiculously slow and is generally the antithesis of what I look for. In pitch black driving rain and high winds I constantly felt out of control, which for a control freak is not a good feeling. I was more scared driving that old Prius than I would have been riding a motorcycle in the same conditions.

Of course, the new Prius comes stock with 15-inch wheels, low-rolling-resistance tires, slow steering and lots of body roll, but its still a marked improvement over previous generations. I'd put it on par with the smaller, cheaper and less fuel-efficient 2010 Honda Insight that I drove late last year.

Part of the Prius's driving success comes from its new three-setting drive mode selector. Drivers can choose Eco Mode, which slows down response from the throttle; Power Mode, which speeds up that response; and Normal Mode, which sits somewhere between the two. We quickly got fed up with the poor response in Eco Mode and spent the day in Power, enjoying the transmission's increased willingness to move the revs into the power band when the throttle was planted.

As you'd expect, it's not all positives for the driving experience. When equipped with 17-inch wheels, the body control and steering are on par with most European mid-size hatches, but the transmission's ability to quickly turn throttle input into acceleration is somewhat lacking. This is most apparent when transitioning from maintenance to wide-open throttle mid-corner, somewhat spoiling the driver's ability to fully exploit the Prius's chassis. Also calling and end to the fun is an over eager stability control system that can't be fully defeated. But the fact that we're complaining about artificial limitations placed on the outright ability of a car that's historically been utterly boring, if not completely lacking in driving dynamics of any sort, is probably the best compliment we can give it.

The Prius is also a nicer place to spend time, with more room in the rear seat for big boys and girls, nicer materials and a lot of fancy tech features that are fun to use. Foremost of those is the Touch Tracer Display, which replicates inputs on the steering wheel mounted controls in the in-dash display. It sounds silly, but provides useful feedback for systems that can normally be distracting to use on the move. Unfortunately, there are also downsides to the revised interior. Foremost on our list of things we don't like are the heated seat switches, which have bizarrely been located down by the driver's feet. We predict a class action lawsuit filed by completely detestable human beings who couldn't figure out that they probably shouldn't attempt to operate these controls on the move within the year.

While the Prius uses a similarly functional economy gauge to the Honda Insight and Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota's falls behind both in usefulness and far behind Ford's in looks. Toyota knows that Prius buyers are big tech fans, offering a variety of options like the solar sunroof, Lane Keep Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and automatic parallel parking systems to try and give them something to spend money on, but we think a more useful and better looking economy meter, like Ford's, would go much further in meeting the desires of those buyers.

When we showed Toyota our wobbly shot of the Prius's gauges at 102 MPH, they expressed disappointment that we hadn't maxed the car out to its 112 MPH top speed and not at all worried about our instantaneous MPG figure. We tried pretty hard to get that figure as low as possible for that shot (running the battery down as low as possible, then flooring the gas pedal), but for the rest of the day, even while driving quickly on back roads, we averaged between 40 and 70 MPG. Most buyers driving like normal people can expect to regularly exceed the 51 MPG city/48 highway EPA figure, while devoted hypermilers will see figures in the mid-70 MPG range.

While the new Prius remains far from the top of our Best Driving Cars list, it's also now far from the bottom, where it used to reside. Not only is it the most fuel-efficient vehicle for sale in America, but it combines that newfound efficiency with the dynamics, space and experience of a normal car. While we wouldn't buy one, we'd now be pretty happy if we got a Prius as a rental car or had to buy one for our more eco-minded significant others. We'd just make sure it was one with 17-inch wheels.

Although we'll have more on this intuitive system when we're allowed to run our embargoed drive of the new Prius, we figured we'd give you an early taste. It's one of those things that's incredibly simple, yet incredible effective. The two round steering wheel-mounted button clusters are repeated in the information display. That display is mounted at the top of the vehicle's dash, with a focal range approximate to that needed for viewing the road. As you push one of the buttons, the two circles appear in the display and the button you push is highlighted in orange - a visual feedback that confirms your selections.

The steering wheel controls include: audio functions, climate control, trip computer, dynamic radar cruise control, telephone, and lane keep assist. In short, most of the secondary functions you'll commonly use while driving.

When the 2010 Toyota Prius officially launches this spring, it will now officially receive a combined EPA estimated fuel efficiency rating of 50 MPG — that's an estimated city/highway mpg rating of 50 in the city, 49 on the highway.This blows away the first-generation Prius, which was rated at an EPA combined 41 MPG. It even blows away the current-generation Prius with its EPA combined 46 MPG combined city/highway. All this despite being bigger, longer and more...horsepower-y. We'll have our drive impression sometime later this month, so you'll have to wait to find out if Toyota's taken this more-efficient Prius from bland to, you know, another, stronger shade of vanilla. Heck, maybe it's even moved up to "cream." You'll have to wait to find out. Full press release from Toyota below:

50 MPG with Additional Horsepower, New and Innovative Technology, Improved Aerodynamics, More Head and Legroom

YOUNTVILLE, Calif. (March 2, 2009) — When it launches this spring, the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius will once again set new standards for innovative hybrid design and technology, raising its level of convenience features and performance to new heights, including a combined EPA estimated fuel efficiency rating of 50 miles-per-gallon.

Celebrated as the benchmark for cars of the future, the Prius has delivered superior fuel economy and ultra-low emissions to more than 1.2 million owners worldwide for more than 10 years.

The midsize third-generation 2010 Prius will offer even better mileage ratings, enhanced performance, and innovative design features. It will be quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced standard and available features such as a moonroof with solar panels, four driving modes, Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) and steering wheel touch controls that display on the instrument panel.

"The Prius has evolved with our customers over the past 10 years and is now more things to more people," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "It's environmental, innovative, and practical. It's an everyday car for everyday use, and when it goes on sale a few months from now, we believe that its new features will appeal to returning owners, while at the same time attract buyers who are looking for innovative technology with a hybrid powertrain."

An Eco-Icon

Prius entered the market in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid. The name Prius, "to go before" in Latin, became symbolic of a car that was launched even before environmental awareness had become a mainstream social issue.

From the beginning, Toyota's full-hybrid system was developed almost entirely in-house and has become a driving force behind advanced vehicle technology. The company's exclusive Hybrid Synergy Drive System was introduced in 2004 on the second-generation Prius. Since then, more than 700,000 have been sold in the U.S.

In designing the new, third-generation Prius, Toyota engineers combined a careful refinement of existing systems with an aggressive measure of new technology necessary for the future of automobiles.

During the development of the Prius, more than 1,000 applications for patents were filed worldwide.

Improved Fuel Economy, Power and Environmental Performance

The new Prius will be built using processes that reduce pollution in every stage of vehicle life, from production and driving, through to disposal.

The third-generation Prius extends its record of continuous improvement in fuel economy. The first-generation Prius, which was rated 41 EPA combined mpg, was replaced by the current model, which is EPA rated at 46 miles per gallon (mpg), combined city/highway. Using a combination of technologies, fuel efficiency was increased to an EPA estimated city/highway mpg rating of 50 in the city, 49 on the highway and a combined 50 mpg for the new Prius.

A larger and more powerful 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine will produce 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm in the new Prius. Together with its electric motor the hybrid system in the new Prius will generate a combined net horsepower of 134, an improvement of 24 horsepower over the previous generation.

Contrary to conventional wisdom, the larger engine actually helps improve highway mileage. By making more torque, the new engine can run at lower average rpm on the highway. When operating at lower rpm, the new engine uses less fuel. Mileage is especially improved in cold-start conditions and at higher speeds.

Use of an electric water pump and a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system also contribute to the engine's efficiency. The 1.8-liter Prius engine is the first Toyota power plant that requires no belts under the hood for better fuel economy and less potential maintenance.

A multi-information display panel that monitors fuel and energy consumption is standard. It provides feedback on the Prius' efficiency using three different displays to help the driver acquire economical driving habits.

Unlike most other hybrid vehicles available, Prius has been an uncompromised "full" hybrid since introduction. This allows it to run on engine alone, battery alone, or a combination of both. The system blends the best of parallel hybrid and series hybrid designs to achieve the ability to operate on the electric mode alone, and to charge the batteries while the car is running.

The patented Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2010 Prius is 90 percent newly-developed with significant improvements over previous models.

*
The transaxle is lighter in weight and reduces torque losses by as much as 20 percent compared to the previous model.
*
The inverter, which converts direct current to alternating current, has a new direct cooling system to reduce size and weight.
*
Taken together, the inverter, motor and transaxle are smaller and 20 percent lighter.
*
A newly developed electronically controlled regenerative braking system has been adopted, with control logic optimized to enhance regeneration.

The new Prius will offer three alternative driving modes. EV Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile, if conditions permit. There is also a Power Mode, which increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel, and an Eco Mode, which helps drivers achieve their best mileage.

The new Prius will be certified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) and an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in California, as well as those states adopting California emission standards. The AT-PZEV certification requires the SULEV exhaust standard linked with the ability to meet a zero-fuel-evaporative standard, a 150,000-mile durability demonstration, extended emissions system warranty, and technology deemed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to advance future fuel cell vehicles. In the rest of the country, Prius will be certified as Tier 2, Bin 3. The new Prius will produce over 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle.

Cutting Edge Styling

In designing the new Prius, aerodynamic performance was an important factor. The goal was to create a beautiful silhouette, while not compromising function. Designers preserved the dynamic triangle form of the

current model—instantly recognizable as a Prius—but made alterations to the overall profile, pillar position and angle. The front pillar, extended forward, helps refine the performance-focusing, shaped form.

The overall height of the Prius is the same, but the roof profile is altered by moving the top of the roof 3.9 inches to the rear. This emphasizes the wedge shape, and also allows for enhanced rear headroom and improved aerodynamics.

The design of the new Prius' front and rear corners are sharp, sporty and aerodynamic. Strong side character lines, rising from front to rear, define the glazed geometric shape. Viewed from the rear, wider rear treads provide a solid, firmly rooted stance.

Dimensionally, the new Prius has the same wheelbase as the current generation. Overall length is slightly increased by 0.6 inches, in part by moving the front cowl forward.

One of the World's Lowest Cd

The new Prius received more wind tunnel hours of testing than any other Toyota in history, resulting in one of the cleanest aerodynamic profiles of any mass-produced vehicle in the world. By focusing on the shape of the body, underfloor, wheelhouse liner and shape of the wheels, the designers of the new Prius were able to reduce the coefficient of drag (Cd) value to 0.25, compared to 0.26 for the previous model. The airflow under the car was studied extensively. Engineers made changes to the shape of the fender liner, front surface of the underfloor, and added a fin at the rear floor cover to increase linear stability.

Advanced Equipment For a New Era

An available sliding glass moonroof is packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a new ventilation system. This solar powered ventilation system uses an electrically powered air circulation fan that does not require engine assist. The system prevents the interior air temperature from rising while the vehicle is parked, making the cool-down time shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.

The new Prius also offers a remote air-conditioning system. It is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone, and allows remote operation so the driver can adjust the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car.

LEDs (light emitting diodes), optional in low beam headlamps and standard in tail and stop lamps, help reduce the vehicle's power consumption. Air conditioning, a major energy drain, has been re-engineered to increase efficiency and cool-down performance. In addition, an exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance. It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently.

Enhanced Vehicle Performance

The next-generation Prius is built on a new platform, which enables improved handling stability, quieter operation, and collision safety. The suspension consists of front struts and a rear intermediate beam design, as before, but handling stability is advanced by improving the stabilizer layout, higher caster angle and tuning the bushing characteristics. Disc brakes are now used on all four corners, replacing the front disc/rear drum brakes in the current model.

Weight was saved through use of aluminum in the hood, rear hatch, front suspension axle and brake caliper and super high-tensile steel in the rocker inner, center pillar, and roof reinforcement. To meet customer expectations for everyday performance, zero-to-60 acceleration has been improved to 9.8 seconds.

Better-performing sound insulation, working with improved vibration damping, has been installed in various locations to reduce road noise.

Functional Interior Is Bigger on the Inside

Proving that small changes add up to big gains, the cargo area of the new Prius was expanded 0.4 inches in length and 2.2 inches in width by using a new and an improved layout of the battery cooling unit.

Rear seat legroom is enhanced by a new space-saving contoured front-seat design.

Viewed from the cockpit, the center cluster smoothly flows from the instrument panel to the console. Handy storage space has been added under the shift lever by taking advantage of the shift-by-wire system. Simple, fin-type air vents are consistent with the cabin's efficient appearance. Judicious use of silver accents adds a finished, technical feel.

A new Touch Tracer Display features touch sensors on the steering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye movement for better concentration on the road. When the driver touches the audio or info switch located on the steering wheel, a duplicate image is displayed on the instrument panel, directly in front of the driver. Touch Tracer is the first display system in the world to allow steering wheel controls to read out on the instrument panel.

The ECO indicator on the Multi-Informational Display (MID) provides driver feedback for lower fuel consumption.

In pursuit of developing various advanced technologies aimed at realizing sustainable mobility, Toyota will use plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics in the 2010 Prius. The newly-developed plastics, known as "ecological plastic," will be used in the seat cushion foam, cowl side trim, inner and outer scuff plates, and deck trim cover. Ecological plastic emits less CO2 during a product lifecycle (from manufacturing to disposal) than plastic made solely from petroleum; it also helps reduce petroleum use.

Safety Enhancements

The new Prius was designed to comply with class-top level collision safety performance in each global region of sale, and to accommodate increasingly strict safety requirements in the future.

In addition to advanced driver and front passenger Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, driver and passenger seat-mounted side airbags and driver's knee airbag are standard equipment.

Active headrests are used in both front seats to reduce the possibility of whiplash in a collision. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), electronic traction control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) are included with Toyota's standard Star Safety System.

A Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System, which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is unavoidable.

Next-generation Intelligent Parking Assist features simplified settings to help guide the car into parking spaces.

A backup monitor, which provides a view of rear obstacles when reverse is engaged, is available with an optional voice-activated navigation system. Safety Connect, Toyota's first safety and security service, includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and an SOS call button. Safety Connect will be available a few months after launch.

New Model Strategy

Prius will come in one grade with four different standard equipment packages named II, III, IV and V, each with varying levels of exterior and interior features, allowing buyers to choose the Prius that will best fit their needs (see a complete list of standard features for each model in the attached specification documents).

Option Packages

In addition to its array of standard equipment an impressive list of comfort and convenience features are offered in these three simplified option packages:

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A Navigation Package available on Prius models III, IV, and V, includes a voice-activated touch-screen DVD navigation system with a JBL AM/FM/four-CD changer with integrated XM satellite radio, MP3/WMA playback capability, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth® wireless technology, eight speakers and a backup camera.
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A Solar Roof Package, available in Prius models III and IV, includes all contents in the Navigation Package, a power tilt/slide moonroof with a solar powered ventilation system and a remote air conditioning system.
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An Advanced Technology Package, available in Prius model V, includes all contents in the Navigation Package; a Pre-Collision System; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Lane Keep Assist (LKA); and IPA.

Color and Trim

Prius will be available in seven exterior colors including Blizzard Pearl, Sandy Beach Metallic, Blue Ribbon Metallic, Winter Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic and Black. They will be mated to three interior colors that include Misty Gray, Dark Gray and Bisque. All three interior colors will be available in both fabric and leather.

Peace of Mind Warranty Protection

Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. In applicable states (including Calif., Mass., N.Y, N.J., Vt., Conn., Maine, N.M., and R.I.) hybrid-related component coverage is 15 years/150,000 miles with the exception of the hybrid battery which is warranted for 10 years/ 150,000 miles.

Pricing for the 2010 Prius will be announced shortly before it goes on sale in late spring.

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This was probably a carefully assembled scene destined for fancy lighting and a once-over by high-dollar photographers for some glossy print mag. Instead, we drove up in our GEM car and took these first-ever photos of the 2010 Honda Insight with its direct rival, the 2010 Toyota Prius. The two hybrid headliners from Japan made their official debuts here at the 2009 Detroit Auto show and will be duking it out for self-satisfied sales later this year.

The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid was also there, which is funny because it was previously been spottedposing with the Cadillac Converj, another car in no way associated with the Fusion's segment of "non-jellybean-shaped sedan with great gas mileage." The Fusion Hybrid is a great car on its own merits but folks are tossing it into shoots, making it look like Chester the Terrier. 'Hey guys! What's up, fellas? Want to play hypermiling?'

We already have had a chance to get behind the wheel in our 2010 Honda Insight review and we've already done a design dissection of the 2010 Toyota Prius, we haven't yet seen how the two stack up against each other. For starters, it’s difficult to make this comparison as neither automaker's released full specs yet. However, we're still able to make some initial observations and in cases where we don't have all the details, we've tried to provide some good guesstimates.

Price: In both cars’ cases, we’re waiting on price. It’s rumored the Insight will retail for $18,500 while the current Prius goes for $22,000. The new one is larger, has a bigger engine and fancier technology. Will it cost more money? Advantage: Insight.

Size: The Insight is and entry-level vehicle, the Prius a mid-size. While the Insight is noticeably smaller, there’s less difference once you’re inside than you’d think. Nearly the same space in a smaller package? Advantage: Insight.

"Fun" Factor: Neither of these cars is going to drive like a Lotus Exige, but, believe it or not, the Insight is actually kind of fun and rewarding. We haven’t driven the 2010 Prius, but “fun to drive” is hardly a hallmark of Toyota’s current range. Advantage: Insight.

Fuel Economy: The Prius kills the Insight dead in estimated EPA fuel economy numbers, returning 50 MPG combined to the Honda’s 41 combined. Since both are estimates, we wouldn’t be surprised to see one or both of the cars rise or fall by a MPG or two when they’re officially certified. Advantage: Prius.

Just for fun, we’ve put together a chart to walk through all the salient details between the two "green" machines. We've also tossed in some other putatively green competitors — the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2009 VW Jetta TDI.

Click here for the 2010 Toyota Prius, 2010 Honda Insight By The Numbers Comparison