The 2010 Prius Still a Contender for Best Green Car

This year saw the launch of the third generation Toyota Prius.  Even though other hybrids (including the Honda Insight and Civic) are making their way to the new green car market, the Prius is far and away the most popular of these.

The 2010 Prius boasts a larger 1.8L four cylinder engine that can generate 134 horse power and a stunning 50 MGP city driving fuel rate.  The body has been streamlined even further and the new model allows you to drive using 100% battery power for short periods of time.

There are four models of the 2010 Prius ranging from $22,000-27,270:  II, III, IV and V.  You can see a comparison chart of the features on the main Toyota Website. 

Early reviews of the 2010 Prius have been favorable.  Most reviewers are thrilled with the design changes that have made the interior more comfortable; and with the increase in power in the engine.  However, competition is heating up as more auto manufacturers are phasing out the bulky SUV lines and focusing their attention on fuel efficient, eco-friendly cars—including more hybrids and electric vehicles.

Additional features are described in the Business Week review:

Toyota has also added some techie features to the Prius in three option packages. The $1,800 Navigation Package includes a navigation system, plus an upgraded, eight-speaker sound system, backup camera, and the possibility of adding real-time traffic alerts. The $3,600 Solar Roof Package includes the navigation system as well as a moonroof and a solar-powered system that cools the car when it's parked on hot days. The $4,500 Advanced Technology Package includes the navigation system, as well as a dynamic cruise-control system, lane departure alert, and Intelligent Parking Assist (which you may have seen in Lexus TV commercials—it more or less parallel-parks the car automatically).

Keep in mind that just because you buy a Prius doesn’t necessarily mean you’re helping the environment.  The first thing you have to consider is whether or not you actually NEED to buy a new car.  Getting rid of a perfectly good car just so you can buy a new one is pretty much the opposite of eco-friendly behavior.  It is probably better to keep your existing car in excellent working condition and try to minimize the amount of driving you do.

However, if you do need a new vehicle, the Prius is a viable option.  Just be sure that you check out all the alternatives:  used cars, scooters, public transportation—and make your decision based on what is going to be best for you and your family overall, as well as the environment.