Best New Cars 2010 – Toyota Prius - Popular Mechanics
Like the Toyota Prius. And the Prius has been the mpg leader—a title it has earned yet again with its 2010 model. A low (0.25) coefficient of drag is where the efficiency starts, but the real secret is in the refinements to Toyota’s hybrid system. The 1.5-liter engine has been replaced with a
torque-rich 1.8-liter unit that still operates with the late-intake-valveclosing Atkinson cycle. More low-end torque means the engine doesn’t
have to work as hard. The hybrid system uses the same planetary continuously variable transmission
(CVT) as before, but with a new twist. The main electric motor drive was downsized and
produces less torque (153 lb-ft versus 295). But a reduction gearset that connects it to the gearbox
allows that motor to spin faster. Consequently, it makes 80 peak hp, 13 more than before.
The nickel-metal-hydride battery pack has a more effective cooling system too, which allows peak
output to rise from 25 kilowatts to 27. And now, finally, Prius owners can hit an EV button and
cruise for about a mile locked in electric drive. On a recent test, the car delivered a thrifty 52 mpg
in the city—even better than the EPA’s 51-mpg rating.
Toyota’s hybrid system remains the benchmark. But the tech extends beyond the drivetrain with optional solar ventilation, radar-based cruise control and intelligent parking. Yet it’s the driving dynamics that make the Toyota appealing to a wider audience. This is the first Prius that’s actually fun to drive. Make sure your comment is relevant to the topic discussed. Comments not relevant to the topic will be deleted. Neither you nor Popular Mechanics has the ability to make your e-mail address public. However, we ask that you submit your e-mail address to us just in case we need to contact you. Thank you for your understanding--The Editors.
at the factory and the energy needed for cooling. While many automakers have environmentally friendly initiatives, Toyota has been especially proactive. Toyota Accident Details ReleasedToyota Creates New Flower Species To Help Reduce Pollutionall 426 news articles »