New 2010 Toyota Prius

When it comes to going green these days, the 2010 Toyota Prius is truly unlike any other car. Boasting the best fuel economy of any mass produced car on the market, eco-friendly materials and insanely low emissions, the 2010 Toyota Prius is the smartest green car anywhere.

The third generation 2010 Prius increases its fuel economy by three mpg to 51/48 city/highway. What is impressive about the increased fuel economy is that the 2010 Prius also boasts a larger engine with more power. A 1.8-liter, 98-horsepower gasoline engine is paired with an electric motor that produces a combined 134-horsepower (compared to 110-hp in the 2009 model). There are four different driving modes that you can switch between to maximize fuel efficiency based on your needs. Regular drive is just that. Eco Mode optimizes the settings for total efficiency and Power Mode increases gas-pedal sensitivity for enhanced acceleration. EV-Drive Mode keeps the 2010 Prius operating on electric power as long as possible.

Toyota refreshed the look of the 2010 Prius by giving the bumper more of a squared-off look, while the headlights are more angular and sporty, making the 2010 Prius the most aerodynamic mass-produced car in the world. One of the most interesting gadgets is the Touch Tracer Display. The buttons on the steering wheel are a mirror image of icons on the display on the dashboard. Intelligent Parking Assist eliminates the pressure and anxiety of parallel parking and does all of the hard work for you.

The optional power tilt/slide moonroof with Solar Powered Ventilation System cools the interior once the cabin reaches 68 degrees and the Remote Air Condition System allows you to activate the air conditioning system via your keyfob. A voice-activated touch-screen DVD navigation system, XM NavTraffic and backup camera are optional, while a JBL AM/FM/MP3 6-disc CD changer, eight speakers, integrated satellite radio capability and Bluetooth connectivity come standard in most trims. There is more legroom for backseat passengers, more cargo room and some components are made of Eco Plastics (resin derived from plants).

When it comes to safety, the Prius has you covered with several high-tech features and standard safeguards. Seven airbags, active head restraints, traction control, electronic stability system and all-disc antilock brakes come standard. A lane-drift warning system and pre-collision system that prepares the Prius for impact are optional, as is the all-new radar-based adaptive cruise control that maintains your speed based on the speed of the car ahead of you.

The 2010 Toyota Prius is one of the smartest, most stylish and most impressive new cars on the planet; and with 50 mpg is the fuel-efficient king of the hill — again.