2010 Toyota Prius Overview

Improvements to the third-generation Prius required the filing of more than 1,000 patent applications. Several concern the powertrain, which is 90% new and with an increase in engine displacement to 1.8 litres from 1.5 litres. The platform is all new, but apart from a 1.5-cm gain in overall length, the Prius is practically the same size as before, and it remains a four-door hatchback.
Interior and cargo area
The easily accessed front seats are comfortable but firm to a point that may not to be to everyone’s liking. Head- and legroom are relatively generous. Drivers obtain a good driving position thanks among other things to a telescoping steering column.
The backseat is comfortable for just two; the shape of the cushion and backrest discourages anyone from sitting in the middle section. Legroom is good, since there’s a bit more room than before. Headroom is a bit tight for tall people. Rare for a hybrid, the seatback is split 60/40, and it folds flat to the floor.
Cargo capacity is good, with more space than before thanks to an improvement in the layout of the hybrid system’s battery cooling unit. The floor is flat but a bit high. The hatch opens high out of the way.
Convenience and safety features
Cabin finish is very good though we could hear several rattles in our tester, and the quality of materials is adequate. Toyota uses ecological plastics that emit less CO2 over their life cycle. Sound insulation is perfectible where road noise is concerned and deficient with respect to engine acceleration noise and the hiss of the transmission when slowing down and stopping. There are several good storage compartments including a deep centre console and two glove boxes.
Gauges and controls are well laid out. The radio volume button is a bit thin. The glove compartments and several controls are not lighted at night. The click of the turn signals is almost inaudible. The windshield washer nozzles are places under the edge of the hood and can easily be blocked by snow and ice.

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