2011 Toyota Prius

With its 50-mpg combined city/highway fuel economy rating, the 2011 Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient passenger car available in the U.S. today. Prius offers its stellar fuel economy in a versatile five-passenger package that is recognized as a midsize car by the EPA.

The 2011 Prius has innovative features as a moonroof with solar panels, four driving modes, Advanced Guidance Parking System and steering wheel touch controls that display on the instrument panel.

The 2011 Prius offers four driving modes (Normal, Power, Eco and EV). The EV Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile. Power Mode increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel; Eco Mode helps drivers achieve the best mileage. A multi-information display panel that monitors fuel and energy consumption is standard.

An available sliding glass moonroof is packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a new ventilation system. The solar powered ventilation system helps reduce the interior air temperature when parked directly in the sun. Cool-down time is shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.

The 2011 Prius also offers a remote air conditioning system. It is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone, and it allows remote operation so the driver can cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting into the car.

In the Prius, a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. Together with its electric motor, the hybrid system generates a combined 134 net horsepower.