Toyota Prius: Best Engineered Car of 2001

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What readers said about the Prius...

"This Toyota gives us a look at the future of the automobile with its shrewdly engineered hybrid powertrain."

"Obtains SULEV emissions ratings on gasoline, high fuel economy, but still an overall very good performing vehicle with new hybrid technology."

"Hybrid technology is implemented in a vehicle with outstanding tail-pipe characteristics and advanced engineering to give comfort, driving ease, and remarkable economy. Technical details are impressive and Toyota has made this a most acceptable car in all respects."

"Only acceptable-size, low-pollution, low-consumption car available in 2001."

"The Prius' hybrid technology gives great gas mileage and SULEV emissions in a practical five-passenger car."

Prius Technical Specifications
Gasoline Engine
Type	Inline four-cylinder DOHC
Displacement	1.497 L
Compression ratio	13.0:1
Peak power	52 kW (70 hp) at 4500 rpm
Peak torque	111 N•m (82 lb•ft) at 4200 rpm
Fuel tank capacity	45 L (11.9 gal)
Electric motor
Type	Permanent magnet
Capacity	6.5 A•h
Peak torque	350 N•m (258 lb•ft) from 0 to 400 rpm
Battery pack
Peak power	25 kW
Nominal voltage	274 V
Exterior dimensions
Length	4310 mm (170 in)
Width	1695 mm (67 in)
Height	1465 mm (58 in)
Wheelbase	2550 mm (100 in)
Mass	1255 kg (2765 lb)
Drivetrain/chassis
Transmission	Electrically controlled CVT
Braking	Front ventilated disc/rear drum with integrated regenerative brake system
Steering	Rack and pinion
Suspension (front/rear)	MacPherson strut/torsion beam

Prius Fuel Economy
	MY01	MY98
Japanese 10-15	29.0 km/L	28.0 km/L
U.S. Combined	57.6 mpg	50 mpg
EC	120 g/km

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