As a popular hybrid icon, the Prius has no equal. The Prius combines a roomy interior with a five-door aerodynamic body to create a shape that has come to define the Prius. Beneath the skin, Toyota's proprietary Hybrid Synergy Drive(R) integrates a 98-bhp 1.8L inline-4 with an 80-hp electric motor for seamless operation. Energy for the permanent magnet synchronous motor is stored in a Nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Although many expected plug-in capabilities, those features will be phased in later. The Prius is more than high mileage. A large assortment of high tech options allows customers to tailor the Prius to their needs. Some notable features include a solar cell sunroof that keeps the car cooler while parked on a hot day reducing the need for air conditioning. Toyota estimates the Prius will get 50 MPG combined, but that figure is highly dependent on many other factors.

The third generation Prius features a new more slippery version of its iconic shape, a larger gasoline engine for more power, and a significantly reworked hybrid system. The batteries will remain nickel-metal hydride. Lithium ion battery packs and plug-in capabilities will phased in later.