Spacious cabin is loaded with comfort and safety
Toyota must be commended for their redesign of the Prius cabin; it's simply splendid in every way except one. The slit that houses the instrument panel is too narrow and congested.
This hi-tech arrangement is full of "gee whiz" wonderment but for my eyes it's too small to be easily viewed. Yes, the primary readouts such as speed and fuel were suitably sized but much of the remaining content was too petite for me to see at a glance. Others of more tender years and better eyesight may not encounter this issue.
Three aspects of the cabin that really impressed me: 1) The Command Console that houses the majority of switchgear, including the electronic gearshift, is brilliantly executed and one of the best designed consoles in an economy car ever. 2) The cabin is tremendously spacious, even in the rear seat. 3) The materials in use are of premium caliber.
Prius wrap
Except for its appealing gas mileage, I was never a fan of the former Prius. That's changed for 2010. This is a vehicle that achieves extraordinary fuel economy while treating its occupants to an impressive level of comfort, safety and refinement. A number of journalists in attendance at the launch in Napa Valley achieved significantly better fuel economy than Toyota's rating of 3.8L/100km during a combined highway/city run.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Toyota must be commended for their redesign of the Prius cabin; it's simply splendid in every way except one. The slit that houses the instrument panel is too narrow and congested.
This hi-tech arrangement is full of "gee whiz" wonderment but for my eyes it's too small to be easily viewed. Yes, the primary readouts such as speed and fuel were suitably sized but much of the remaining content was too petite for me to see at a glance. Others of more tender years and better eyesight may not encounter this issue.
 |
| Toyota must be commended for their redesign of the Prius cabin; it's simply splendid. |
Three aspects of the cabin that really impressed me: 1) The Command Console that houses the majority of switchgear, including the electronic gearshift, is brilliantly executed and one of the best designed consoles in an economy car ever. 2) The cabin is tremendously spacious, even in the rear seat. 3) The materials in use are of premium caliber.
Prius wrap
Except for its appealing gas mileage, I was never a fan of the former Prius. That's changed for 2010. This is a vehicle that achieves extraordinary fuel economy while treating its occupants to an impressive level of comfort, safety and refinement. A number of journalists in attendance at the launch in Napa Valley achieved significantly better fuel economy than Toyota's rating of 3.8L/100km during a combined highway/city run.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Article Gallery