Three power modes
The 2010 Prius is a perky little buggy when driven in its 'PWR' mode. Throttle response is immediate and stout for a vehicle in this segment. Even in its normal operating mode, the new Prius delivers satisfying acceleration, however, engaging the 'ECO' mode significantly alters such characteristic.
A definite sluggishness overtakes any sense of performance once the ECO mode button is pushed. Now that's not to say, disregard its usage. The ECO mode improves fuel economy while still enabling the Prius to easily stay with the flow of traffic. It's just that one's right foot must sink deeper into the throttle to find any sort of guts.
The final power mode is 'EV,' which is short for 'electric vehicle.' It's this mode that I most appreciated. EV enables the driver to realistically use only electric power to propel the Prius for a couple of kilometres consuming only battery power provided speeds are kept below 40kph or so and no need for rapid acceleration is encountered.
Once the demand for speed crests the magic threshold or rapid acceleration is ordered, the gas engine engages and away the Prius runs. But the true magic in EV mode is the ability to pull off the main thoroughfare and take a series of side streets home for the last few clicks for virtually free.
Secure ride accompanied by sharp handling dynamics
Toyota engineers didn't just apply themselves to the Prius's powertrain; they also focused on the vehicle's underpinnings to ensure that it handled better than last year while delivering a smooth composed ride. After a number of hours behind the wheel of the 2010 Prius, I'd have to say that they succeeded.
The new Prius feels solid and competent on the road irrespective of road surface or type. It also feels notably stable on the highway, where the absence of wind noise is almost eerie. The vehicle steers remarkably well considering its electric power assist; these setups often convey a disconnected, virtual feel but not in this case.
Sleek shape impedes rearward visibility
Allegedly there's a bent mailbox post somewhere deep in the Napa Valley that attests to the Prius's obstructed rear vision. The slippery shape that serves the Prius so well in many other ways can make reversing the vehicle a difficult task when it's surrounded by obstacles.
The 2010 Prius is a perky little buggy when driven in its 'PWR' mode. Throttle response is immediate and stout for a vehicle in this segment. Even in its normal operating mode, the new Prius delivers satisfying acceleration, however, engaging the 'ECO' mode significantly alters such characteristic.
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| EV enables the driver to realistically use only electric power to propel the Prius for a couple of kilometres. |
A definite sluggishness overtakes any sense of performance once the ECO mode button is pushed. Now that's not to say, disregard its usage. The ECO mode improves fuel economy while still enabling the Prius to easily stay with the flow of traffic. It's just that one's right foot must sink deeper into the throttle to find any sort of guts.
The final power mode is 'EV,' which is short for 'electric vehicle.' It's this mode that I most appreciated. EV enables the driver to realistically use only electric power to propel the Prius for a couple of kilometres consuming only battery power provided speeds are kept below 40kph or so and no need for rapid acceleration is encountered.
Once the demand for speed crests the magic threshold or rapid acceleration is ordered, the gas engine engages and away the Prius runs. But the true magic in EV mode is the ability to pull off the main thoroughfare and take a series of side streets home for the last few clicks for virtually free.
Secure ride accompanied by sharp handling dynamics
Toyota engineers didn't just apply themselves to the Prius's powertrain; they also focused on the vehicle's underpinnings to ensure that it handled better than last year while delivering a smooth composed ride. After a number of hours behind the wheel of the 2010 Prius, I'd have to say that they succeeded.
The new Prius feels solid and competent on the road irrespective of road surface or type. It also feels notably stable on the highway, where the absence of wind noise is almost eerie. The vehicle steers remarkably well considering its electric power assist; these setups often convey a disconnected, virtual feel but not in this case.
Sleek shape impedes rearward visibility
Allegedly there's a bent mailbox post somewhere deep in the Napa Valley that attests to the Prius's obstructed rear vision. The slippery shape that serves the Prius so well in many other ways can make reversing the vehicle a difficult task when it's surrounded by obstacles.
 |
| The slippery shape of the Prius make reversing the vehicule a difficult task. |