If anything, the Prius is even better following last year's redesign which made aerodynamic revisions to further reduce drag while also giving the car a sleeker and sportier look. The gas engine size was increased and the electric motor was also strengthened, resulting in both additional power and still better gas mileage performance, with a combined city/highway EPA rating of 50 mpg, simply tops in the conventional hybrid segment. Handling agility was also enhanced thanks to a new suspension tuning and improved electric steering.
It turns out that ending HOV lane privileges for the Toyota Prius in California is slowing traffic, according to a new study. That might be a good thing for pedestrians, as the Ford Focus Electric won't have a built-in noisemaker.
Today around the High Gear Media network, we have a potpourri of news, including the 2012 Fisker Karma's official fuel economy ratings, an IIHS Top Safety Pick for the 2012 Fiat 500, and a look at whether the 2012 Chevrolet Volt or the 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in hybrid is cheaper to drive.