Second Generation Toyota Prius

Written by george

Friday, 11 July 2008

The Second Generation Toyota Prius Information.

The Toyota Prius is still the most popular and best-selling hybrid car in the world today. When the Prius was released back in 1997 it pioneered the trend towards hybrid vehicles. Initially, the Prius

didn't sell very well at all, however, sales start to increase as more models were introduced. In 2003 Toyota released a second generation Toyota Prius which became the first midsize hybrid car on the market, and Motor Trend voted it the car of the year.

People are not just buying hybrids because of the environmental and health issues, another reason is the soaring gas prices which is leading people to look for alternatives. Although there are many hybrid cars an individual can choose from, the Prius is the number one choice due to its simplicity and price.

Second Generation Toyota Prius:

The second generation Prius is a big improvement from the first one. The first generation Prius was fuel efficient but it only had the additional option of air-conditioning. The second generation was bigger, faster and looked better than its predecessor. It's the first midsize hatchback sedan on the market which has won many awards.

Like all Toyota hybrids it uses the Synergy hybrid system. It has a 1.5 liter 4 cylinder engine with intelligent valve timing and permanent magnet Ac synchronous motor. It has 110 horsepower (gas and electric power combined) and 46 mpg fuel economy (combined city and highway rating by EPA).

It has an electronically controlled continuous variable transmission, anti-lock system and regenerative breaking. It has 89 % fewer emissions and grants the owner a tax credit upon purchase.

The standard features of the second generation Toyota Prius are power windows, cloth seating, micron filter air-conditioning, door locks, cruise control and remote keyless entry. Remote switches are placed on the steering wheel for climate, cruise control and audio. Customers have the option of buying the vehicle with a navigational system with Bluetooth technology. The ignition is tuned on by a power button instead of suing the key which make it different than any other hybrid on the market. An energy motor is mounted on the dashboard which indicates the flow of power between the engine, electric motor and battery pack.

The second generation Toyota Prius probably isn't as attractive and stylish as other hybrid cars, however, it does have lots of eco friendly features, and is fuel efficient. So, if you're looking for a practical, easy to maintain, and eco friendly car then the Toyota Prius is the car for you.

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