2010 Toyota Prius IV

The leather-appointed 2010 Toyota Prius IV displays a new exterior design for 2010, with a more aerodynamic exterior shape, a flat underbelly, and an elongated tail, all of which help improve airflow along the car's roofline and corners. Inside, leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel come standard. Other luxury-oriented features include heated front seats, power lumbar support for the driver's seat, a three-door Smart Key system, and an automatic climate control system with a Plasmacluster ionizer, which removes contaminants from the air. Bluetooth, cruise control, power windows and door locks, and an eight-speaker JBL AM/FM audio system with a 6-CD changer and an MP3 input jack also come standard. In addition, Toyota adds a new Touch Tracer Display for 2010, which features touch control pads on the steering wheel. When the driver uses the touch pads to manage the audio, climate control, and information systems, virtual images of the pads are displayed on the dashboard instrument panel, which helps reduce driver eye movement and improves safety.

Toyota updated the Prius IV's Hybrid Energy Drive for 2010. It now features two electric motors and a new beltless 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle DOHC four-cylinder gas engine, which produce a combined 134 hp. The new powerplant links to a ECVT, or electronic continuously variable transmission, which shifts smoothly and seamlessly. With a 0-60 mph time of 9.8 seconds, the Prius IV won't break any speed records, but it posts very acceptable fuel economy numbers of 51/48 mpg. Traction control, stability control, hill start assist, and antilock brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution all come standard. Exterior features include LED taillights, heated power mirrors, and water-repellent windows for the driver and front passenger. The Prius IV rides on 15-inch alloy wheels.

By R. Feeman