The
2011 Toyota Prius is a spacious four-door hybrid hatchback with a sedan-like cabin and plenty of cargo space. Outfitted with a 1.8-liter, 134 horsepower engine coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Prius has a Hybrid Synergy Drive feature that makes it more efficient. It gets 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg when on the highway.
Standard safety features abound on the Toyota Prius. It's a very comfortable car with some pizzazz other hybrids don't have. Plus, it's a high-quality hatchback with great standard features and some pretty cool options.
New for 2011
The 2011 Toyota Prius is a carryover from the previous year. Some of its newer features are 24 more horsepower, better fuel economy, quieter ride, improved handling, updated looks, cooler gauges, higher quality interior, more cargo space, more legroom, more shoulder room, and more headroom.
Essentials
Engine: 1.8L I-4
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission
Body Style: Four-door hatchback
Trims: Base Hatchback, Hatchback I, Hatchback II, Hatchback III, Hatchback IV, Hatchback V
On the Outside
The newer Prius is quite distinctly different from its predecessor and make the previous generation look instantly dated. Prius options include 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and LED headlights.
From the Inside
The Toyota Prius has a high-quality interior, including cool gauges to monitor the hybrid system. Options include DVD-based navigation, iPod connectivity, solar-powered ventilation system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane keep assist, and Intelligent Park Assist.
Driving Performance
A 134-horsepower system, which is up 24 horses from last year, gets the Toyota Prius go 0-60 mph in 10.1 seconds. The Prius needs only 121 feet to stop from 60 mph. With an impressive ride quality and impressive grip, the Prius is a popular car. Even more important the Prius is rated 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway in fuel economy.
Safety Equipment
Standard on the Toyota Prius are driver and front passenger airbags, dual front side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. Other standard features are traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution. Stability control is an optional feature.
Gas Mileage
All Trims: 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway
Plusses
- High-quality interior
- Outstanding fuel economy
- Smooth, comfortable ride
- Cool high technology items
Minuses
- Awkward gauges
- Its parking system
- Lack of standard features
Rating
Hybrid with excellent value, great fuel economy, and comfort
People Who Like the 2011 Toyota Prius Also Like
- Honda Insight
- Chevrolet Volt
- Nissan Leaf