Toyota Prius Returns Relatively Unchanged for 2011
After a major redesign last year, the new 2011 Toyota Prius returns relatively unchanged. However, as model reviews from last year will tell you, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Check out all the specs, updates and mpg ratings for the new 2011 Toyota Prius to determine if this perennial hybrid favorite is the right gas sipper for you.
What's New - 2011 Toyota Prius
The only real change to the 2011 Prius is a new color combination - black exterior color with bisque interior color. Apparently, enough customers voiced their dissatisfaction with the unavailability of such a combo on the 2010 model to warrant the addition.
Beyond this one cosmetic change, Toyota has also chosen to drop the Roman numeral naming system for trims. As it turns out, all those I's and V's proved too confusing for some customers. As such, the Prius III will now be the Prius Three, the Prius IV will be the Prius Four and so forth.
Styling - 2011 Toyota Prius
The third-generation Prius is larger and more conventionally styled than its predecessors. However, the vehicle still comes with plenty of styling quirks that may take some getting used to for those new to the Prius scene. On the outside, aerodynamic tweaks help make the vehicle more fuel-efficient. Inside, unique and modern features include a tall center console and joystick-style shifter. While it is recommended everyone who is interested in a Prius take it for a test spin, it's easy to say that this is likely not the vehicle for those looking for a wholly conventional driving experience.
Interior - 2011 Toyota Prius
The 2011 Prius comes with ample room for both front and rear passengers (provided rear occupancy is kept to two). Front passengers will be especially pampered with supportive seating, good upholstery comfort and the availability of a height-adjustable driver's seat (great for shorter drivers). However, it should be noted that more vacuous rear seats can be found on competitors such as the Ford Fusion Hybrid.
In terms of fit and finish, the 2011 Prius is a winner. Despite being one of the most affordable hybrids on the road, the Prius does a great job of incorporating high-quality materials to deliver an all-around pleasant interior environment. Maximum cargo capacity for the Prius hatchback is listed at 15.7 cubic feet.
Fuel Economy - 2011 Toyota Prius
The Prius remains the most fuel-efficient mass-produced vehicle with an estimated 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway (50 mpg). These impressive numbers come courtesy of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that combines with an electric motor to produce a total of 134 horsepower. While this engine won't be winning any drag races, it should be plenty of power for the average driver's daily commute.
In terms of handling, some may complain about the artificial feel of the Toyota Prius. However, such complaints typically titter away as driver's get used to the unique charm of this champion gas sipper.
Safety - 2011 Toyota Prius
The new Prius comes well equipped with safety features. Base models come standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and traction control. Passengers are also surrounded by no less than seven airbags (including a driver's knee airbag). Available options include a pre-collision warning system and lane-departure warning system. Last year, the wholly identical Toyota Prius earned a best-possible overall safety rating of "Good" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Pricing - New 2011 Toyota Prius
Official pricing has yet to be released, but the general expectation is that the new 2011 Prius will receive a price hike of a few hundred dollars. This would place the expected MSRP somewhere around $23,000. For that price, car shoppers get keyless ignition, full power accessories, auto headlights, cruise control and six-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary jack. Notable upgrade amenities include sunroof, leather upholstery, LED headlamps and voice-activated touchscreen navigation.