2010 Toyota Prius: Road Test
2010 Toyota Prius ▼
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- MSRP: $21,000 - $27,270
- Invoice: $19,950 - $25,384
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Our road test for the 2010 Toyota Prius includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Toyota Prius from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Toyota Prius, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Toyota Prius help you decide if a 2010 Toyota Prius is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
Initial full-throttle acceleration from a stop is mediocre at best, but the pace picks up quickly and increases steadily thereafter. Toyota claims the 0-60-mph time dropped from 10.5 seconds to 9.8, and the difference can be felt. What's most impressive, however, is its mid-speed throttle response. While it's not particularly strong, it is nearly instantaneous, as the electric motor and CVT negate the need for a conventional downshift. Pressing the PWR (Power) button on the console quickens throttle action for an even sportier feel. Pressing the EV (Electric Vehicle) button allows the car to run in electric-only mode up to 25 mph for about a mile with a fully charged battery. Transitions when the gas engine kicks on and off during driving produce less shudder than before, but can still be felt.
FUEL ECONOMY
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 5.9 |
In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 49.6-51.9 mpg. Prius uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Models with 15-inch tires absorb most bumps with ease, but suffer from wallow over rough patches and pavement swells. The V model with its 17-inch tires rides more firmly, with occasional harshness.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.6 |
On lower-line models, a soft suspension and skinny, economy-based tires allow marked cornering lean and noseplow in even moderate-speed turns. The V model's 17-inch tires provide sharper moves and better cornering grip.
QUIETNESS
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Road and wind noise are modest for the class, and the V model's 17-inch tires produce a bit more noise at highway speeds. The gas engine sounds gruff as it revs, especially at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.3 |
An improvement over the previous-generation Prius, particularly when equipped with a navigation system. As before, there is nothing but blank dashboard ahead of the driver, with the digital speedometer again residing in a central panel mounted high against the windshield, just out of line-of-sight. Without navigation, audio and climate controls are conventionally positioned on the dash but are easy to use and reach. The navigation system still absorbs most audio controls, but they become "virtual pushbuttons" on the screen, no longer incorporating climate controls. Several of the "gee whiz" hybrid-oriented electronic readouts are now more subtle and display next to the speedometer up near the windshield, making them less distracting. The shift lever remains an electronic flipper, but it's now mounted on a raised center console instead of the dash.
DETAILS
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.4 |
Hard plastic dominates. Two-tone panels and other trim pieces give the interior a look that some testers complain makes the car look built to a price. One test model suffered from a few minor interior creaks.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Plenty of headroom and legroom for most adults, though some lanky ones may find their right knee hitting the raised center console. Shorter drivers in particular may appreciate the new height-adjustable seat and telescopic steering wheel. Entry and exit are very easy. Standard cloth seats are softer than most, and some may feel they lack support, but the leather seats on IV and V models are firmer. Visibility is hindered to the rear corners by thick pillars, and the rear window is still split by a horizontal bar that blocks the view straight aft. Some drivers might be annoyed by the backup alarm that chimes inside the car when in reverse, but Toyota says a dealer can turn it off.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Legroom and toe space are ample. Very tall passengers may yearn for more headroom, though most should find it in plentiful supply. The seat isn't wide enough for three adults, but if a center passenger will fit, they'll find plenty of foot space thanks to a flat floor. Entry and exit are easy through large doors.
CARGO ROOM
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Prius offers hatchback versatility with 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, but the sloped tail and high floor preclude toting tall items with the hatch closed. There's a large underfloor bin at the rear of the cargo area that can hold the roll-up cargo cover when it's removed--a handy touch. Cabin storage is plentiful, and includes a large bin under the raised center console, upper and lower gloveboxes, and a two-tiered console box. There are no map pockets in the doors, but there are bottle holders, along with two console cupholders.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 8 | 6.5 |
What's most surprising about the Prius is what a fine midsize car it would be even if it didn't achieve such terrific fuel economy. Its only real drawbacks are minor powertrain idiosyncracies, slightly compromised rear visibility, and downmarket interior materials. None of these negatives should keep you from putting this Best Buy on your shopping list.
Total Score
| II | V w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 71 | 69 | 62.3 |
Total Score: 70
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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