2014 Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius continues to lead the market for hybrid automobiles. With its 51/48 mpg fuel economy rating, Prius is one of the most fuel-efficient gas-powered passenger car available today.

The 2014 Prius Liftback is available in four model grades (Prius Two, Three, Four and Five), with Three and Four offering as an option the world's first sliding glass moonroof packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a ventilation system. The solar powered ventilation system helps reduce the interior air temperature when the car is parked in the sun.

Cool-down time is shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning. The available remote air conditioning system allows remote operation, enabling the driver to cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting into the car.

A 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. Together with its electric motor, the hybrid system generates a combined 134 net horsepower.

Prius can run on the gasoline engine alone, battery alone, or a combination of both. The Hybrid Synergy Drive was completely re-engineered for the third-generation Prius, with lighter, more efficient components.

The 2014 Prius offers four driving modes (Normal, POWER, ECO and EV). The EV Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile, if conditions permit. POWER Mode increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel; ECO Mode helps drivers achieve the best mileage. A Multi-information Display panel provides feedback on the Prius' efficiency using three different displays to help the driver adopt economical driving habits.