2010 Toyota Prius at 2009 Detroit Auto Show

• Competes with: Honda Insight, Ford Fusion Hybrid
• Looks like: You might get noticed driving a new one — maybe
• Drivetrain: 98-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder and 80-hp electric motor
• Hits dealerships: Late spring

Don’t let the looks fool you — this all-new Prius has been radically altered underneath the hood and inside. The most important spec for any hybrid is mileage, and Toyota has delivered with a combined mileage rating of 50 mpg. That beats the current Prius’ 46 mpg combined rating. City and highway mileage has not been released.

The entire powertrain has been revised for maximum efficiency, and the Prius now features a full electric mode that drivers can choose to turn on. The car will run on electric power alone for up to a mile under very careful driving conditions, like in a parking lot. There are also settings for sportier driving and for optimum efficiency. 15-inch wheels are standard, with 17-inch wheels optional.

The battery is still a nickel-metal hydride, which has fallen out of favor in next-generation hybrids, like the upcoming plug-ins. But it sure doesn’t seem to damage the new Prius’ top mileage.

And the rumors are true: The new Prius will have an optional moonroof with solar cells embedded into it. However, the solar cells will only power a ventilation system that keeps the car cool when parked and turned off. The theory is that it takes exponentially more power to cool down a car for every degree hotter it gets, so this should cut down on those gas-sucking A/C blasts on a sunny day.

Inside, the interior has been completely redesigned, with more rear legroom and cargo room. We’ll have an up-close look at the interior later today with more details, but Toyota’s photos are below.

The 2010 Toyota Prius goes on sale in late spring and will likely be priced slightly higher than the current model’s $22,000 price tag.

Comments

The changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary which is probably a good thing. Looks like a pleasant place to spend time in as well. Solar sunroof gizmo is pretty slick too.

I like the wider stance and the new wheel design too. Looks a lot lessy tippy than the current model.

Prius customers tend to be high income. I am still trying to understand how Honda thinks its going to steal those customers with an inferior car based on a low base price. This car looks about the same and the interior is still odd but its undeniably nicer and more refined looking than the Insight and has better mileage to boot. If folks were only concerned about "value" and saving money they wouldnt be buying Prius' in the first place.

Uninspiring design ... just bland.

Uninspiring design ... just bland.

Excellent.......i like it

Hmm, I can pick up a solar powered air exchanger from J.C. Whitney for a couple of bucks...

...put it on a Prius and suddenly it's remarkable innovation.

meh.

I am curious about top level pricing. I can see this going well over $30k with options. They have put lexus like features on this vehicle which means its going to compete with the HS250.

Look at the plastic graining on the buttons...you stay classy, Toyota.

I wish they would move the instrumentation display to the front of the operator instead of the middle of the dash.

well Toyota interiors arent exactly known for being flushed.

Sorry, meant to say luxurious or upscale.

Are these different than those spy photos released a few months back? Because I remember hating the design in the spy pictures, but now I like it in these. Maybe it just quickly grew on me?

PS;
This is the same car that was featured in those initial disputed pictures -- that had the Blue Man Group testing out the car for some reason? ... http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/10/disputed-prius.html

Unless you're talking about other spy pics?

"The car will run on electric power alone for up to a mile under very careful driving conditions, like in a parking lot."
So it means not parking structures or any school's parking lot?

C,
anywhere that you can drive at very slow speeds, low revs etc. The idea is for situations like hunting for a parking space, spiraling down a garage etc. Yes.

David,
Hunting for a parking space is like racing in the go-kart course around here. Courtesy does not exist.

Wow am I disappointed I was hoping to buy the new Prius with improved mileage and a greener engine and better battery's with the car driving more on electric. Instead what do I see from Toyota. Detroit thinking. Put in a bigger engine make it wider so you can take corners at 90 instead of 60. And change the interior not the most impressive way. And then increase the price. No improvement. They have a 100 mpg Prius in Calf that has been modified with better battery's Plug in technology and many other features that they seem to have no idea on how to put in the new Prius. Oh well I guess American know how with back yard mechanics electricians is much farther ahead then the Engineers in Toyota.

Calm down, girl. The new prius has a combined mileage of 50 mpg, about ten percent better than the current model. It also has the electric only mode. Toyota balances putting a larger battery pack with having to carry around the extra weight. In a year or two you'll see Lithium Ion battery packs on this car and mileage in the 70s without plugging in. Can't help you on your quibbles with the design, though.

Toyota knew people complained about the current car being underpowered so they spent resources to address that. I would imagine this car would be faster if Toyota didnt load it down with lexus like technology. I didnt read anything about curb weight (maybe I missed it) but this car has to be heavier. If you are going for light weight and efficiency I dont see why need auto parking assist. Isnt that what the HS250 is for?

looks good economical with a 8 year 195000kms service plan is good ..