Archives

More is less(gas): Larger 1.8 engine can run efficiently at low rpms better. (http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/13/prius-diary-x-the-plush-new-prius/)

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/500/12_10_Priusresize.jpgMicheline Maynard - New York Times – Jan 13, 2009

Only bad thing is the recession is putting a big damper on hybrids (http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1871307,00.html?iid=tsmodule) -- Ed.

Compared with the original Prius, the 2010 Prius will seem like Oysters Rockefeller: a base of healthy ingredients, but with a topping that is decidedly rich.

Toyota, which unveiled the new Prius at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Monday, seems to be walking a tightrope between Shredded Wheat and Cap’n Crunch. On one hand, it is still making an environmental statement, but on the other, it wants to attract more conventional car buyers who were not among Prius’ true believers.

In order to expand the market, they have to appeal to customers more used to creature comforts,” said Brian Johnson, a senior research analyst with Barclays Capital (and a recent Prius buyer)...http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/13/prius-diary-x-the-plush-new-prius/

Holy *^%$#!!. So with an EPA rating of 50 mpg COMBINED (hint to you Chevrolet for shamelessly touting HIGHWAY EPA without mentioning combined), and my hypermile-LITE driving style, I can easily get 70+ combined MPGs. That's awesome. Some around these parts I assume might be pushing 110-120 mpg on a consistent basis.

Your excitement is well founded. I think it has much better potential on the highway since they increased the ratios so a give 60 mph will yield less rpm.

The coolant heat exchanger is a big benefit as well.

Not to mention that the cockpit is a very nice place to be. The controls are nicely laid out and the seating adjustment is in a completely different league compared to the old car. I'm 6'2" and had no problem finding the right driving position. (In my '07, either my legs are cramped or my hands are too far from my body.)

I have to say, it was quite comfortable for my 6'5" frame as well.

oh...so the mods have all the fun I see:cool:

No, we just both happened to go to the Auto Show. ;)

I'm SURE it's not one of the perks sean, I'm sure.

Not a perk, that's hard work, I thought 12 hour days at the dealership were hard. Try a few more on your feet interviewing engineers and sitting in cars the public hasn't seen yet and hoping you don't miss anything. :D

I enjoyed it and would love to go again when possible. (Chicago is too soon unfortunately)