The Toyota Prius is still the most popular and best-selling hybrid car in the world today. The release of the Prius in 1997 launched the movement towards hybrids.
The Prius sold very poorly at first, but sales picked up when new models came on the market. In 2003 Toyota came out with their second generation hybrid vehicle making it car of the year according to Motor Trend.
People are purchasing hybrids not just for environmental, pollution and gas shortage issues, but also because of rising gas prices. Although there are many hybrid cars an individual can choose from, the Prius is the number one choice due to its simplicity and price.
The Toyota Prius’ second generation has improved upon the first one in many important ways. While the first version of the Toyota Prius had excellent fuel efficiency, air conditioning was the sole option available. The second generation was bigger, faster and looked better than its predecessor. It’s the first midsize hatchback sedan on the market which has won many awards.
It employs the Synergy hybrid system used by all of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles. It possesses a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engines features intelligent valve timing and an AC synchronous, permanent magnet motor. The horsepower that it contains is 110 horsepower. (gas and electric power combined) and 46 mpg fuel economy (city and highway mileage combined, as rated by EPA).
It has an electronically controlled continuous variable transmission, anti-lock system and regenerative breaking. It has up to 89 % less emissions and grants the owner a tax credit upon purchase.
Power windows, choice of seat covering, micron filter air-conditioners, cruise control, door locks, and keyless remote entry are included as standard features in the second generation Toyota Prius. Switches can be found on the steering wheel that controls the climate, audio and cruise control.
The Bluetooth Navigational system is one of the options customers have when buying the vehicle. What makes it different from any other hybrids on the market is that it uses a power button to start the ingition rather than a key. On the dashboard is an energy motor that monitors the power that flows through the battery pack, engine and electric motor.
Although there appear to be more stylish hybrids on the road, the Toyota Prius stands out due to fuel efficiency, affordable prices and eco friendly features. Why don’t you choose the pioneer, if you’re searching for practicality?