As a popular hybrid icon, the Prius has no equal. The Prius combines a roomy interior with a five-door aerodynamic body to create a shape that has come to define the Prius. Beneath the skin, Toyota's proprietary Hybrid Synergy Drive(R) integrates a 98-bhp 1.8L inline-4 with an 80-hp electric motor for seamless operation. Energy for the permanent magnet synchronous motor is stored in a Nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Although many expected plug-in capabilities, those features will be phased in later. The Prius is more than high mileage. A large assortment of high tech options allows customers to tailor the Prius to their needs. Some notable features include a solar cell sunroof that keeps the car cooler while parked on a hot day reducing the need for air conditioning. Toyota estimates the Prius will get 50 MPG combined, but that figure is highly dependent on many other factors.

What Changed:

The third generation Prius features a new more slippery version of its iconic shape, a larger gasoline engine for more power, and a significantly reworked hybrid system. The batteries will remain nickel-metal hydride. Lithium ion battery packs and plug-in capabilities will phased in later.