The electric motor delivers 80 horsepower and 153-foot-pounds of torque, not much weaker than the gasoline engine. Working together, the two engines can deliver 134 horsepower, which is on a par with other Toyota compacts with a 1.8 liter engine.

The 2010 Prius engine has more power than its 2009 counterpart, which had a 1.5 liter engine that delivered only 76 horsepower on its own and 110 horsepower when combined with the electric engine. The bigger engine allows for more torque, which then allows the engine to run at a lower rate of speed. However, even the old Prius was a solid highway car, as a 150-mile drive up Michigan’s I-75 in one was as smooth as a conventional car.

With the added power, the 2010 Prius seems to be a solid option for people who are willing to pay extra for the fuel economy. Plug-in electric cars are still a work-in-progress and the proven technology of the Prius is a good outlet for folks wanting to buy a hybrid. posse.