2010 Prius

[Dianne]

Plenty can be found about the 2010 Prius at Toyota's website
and most of us are accepting names on waiting lists for the 2010, which has changed dramatically in mechanics and interior design, and options. It still pretty much looks the same, other than what Toyota's called a major facelift but I think it still looks pretty much the same other than taillights, headlamps, and a slight squashing of the roofline. :>
Dianne

[Ulev]

I just purchased the new 2010 3rd Gen. Prius to 'compliment' my 2007 Tundra DC 4.7 Limited.
I waited for the 3rd gen specifically for the rumored improvements, some of which appeared, others didn't ( Lit ion batteries)
The best feature so far is the three modes EV, Eco and best... Speed !
This mode can be accessed at any point (xcept reverse...) to allow a 'formidable' kick in the pants acceleration. I found this especially useful when accelerating onto the Dan Ryan in the midst of steel hauling semis, and lived to tell about it ! once you get to a comfortable speed and position in traffic, just hit the Eco button and resume constant speed economy mode....vast difference from previous Priu-i...
The EV mode is interesting as well, previously only available in Europe and Asia, I usually hit the button as I turn off the main artery and follow my hilly curvy road to my home, a distance of 1/4 mile up a steep hill and finally a 30% grade up my driveway...all on Electric !!!

[DenverPainter]

I heard there are photovoltaic cells on the roof!

[Badmonkey]

Originally Posted by DenverPainter

I heard there are photovoltaic cells on the roof!

But it only operates a interior fan to control ambient air temperature inside the car. Pretty pricey option for a little benefit (unless you live in the desert!)

I would wait for the new batteries to come out later this year (could be next year). The 2010 model was designed for the Li battery not the NiMH that it currently comes with. If you use a cell phone then you know how much lighter, smaller, and longer lasting a Li battery is?