2010 Toyota Prius: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2010 Toyota Prius is fully redesigned, marking the start of its third generation. The headline change is a larger 1.8-liter hybrid system with 134 total horsepower and an EPA-rated 50 mpg combined.

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About the 2010 Toyota Prius

3rd generation Prius liftback (2010-2015), first year of the redesign.

Toyota positions the Prius as the mainstream hybrid benchmark: a five-passenger hatchback that delivers standout fuel economy without giving up everyday usefulness. The appeal is broader than just saving fuel. Toyota emphasizes midsize-car room, hatchback cargo flexibility, low emissions, quiet operation and hybrid-specific displays and controls that help drivers track efficiency. Against rivals, the Prius leans on proven Toyota hybrid engineering and a distinctive eco-focused identity that buyers instantly recognize.

The redesigned Prius ranges from the simplified Prius I and mainstream Prius II to trims focused on technology, comfort and sharper exterior details. Prius III adds JBL audio and Bluetooth, Prius IV brings leather-trimmed heated front seats, and Prius V stands out with 17-inch wheels and LED headlights.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

A new 1.8-liter hybrid system produces 134 total horsepower. EPA fuel economy improves to 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway and 50 mpg combined.

Styling

The body is completely redesigned with a more aerodynamic shape and a lower 0.25 drag coefficient. Prius V adds distinctive 17-inch wheels, LED headlights and fog lamps.

Safety

Four-wheel disc brakes become standard across the lineup.

Tech

New EV, Eco and Power driving modes let the driver favor short low-speed electric operation, greater efficiency or quicker response. The trim ladder also adds features such as Bluetooth, JBL audio and broader Smart Key access.

Structural

The new third-generation design provides more cargo room and improved rear headroom. Revised platform tuning and added sound insulation also make the cabin quieter and the car feel more substantial on the road.

2010 Toyota Prius specs and features by trim

Feature	2010 Toyota PriusI1 in stock	2010 Toyota PriusV0 in stock	2010 Toyota PriusII1 in stock	2010 Toyota PriusIV0 in stock	2010 Toyota PriusIII0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid
MPG City	51 mpg	51 mpg	51 mpg	51 mpg	51 mpg
MPG Highway	48 mpg	48 mpg	48 mpg	48 mpg	48 mpg
Horsepower	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp
Torque	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Automatic Leveling Headlights
Cruise Control
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
AM/FM Radio
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Heated Front Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start

How the 2011 Toyota Prius compares

The 2011 Toyota Prius is largely a carryover from 2010, with a reshuffled trim lineup as its main change. Its hybrid powertrain, styling, safety equipment, technology, and body structure remain essentially unchanged.

See the full 2011 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2010 Toyota Prius the first year of a new generation?

Yes. The 2010 Prius is the first model year of the third generation, with a redesigned body and cabin, a new hybrid system, more interior room and a quieter structure.

What fuel economy does the 2010 Toyota Prius get?

The 2010 Prius is EPA-rated at 51 mpg city, 48 mpg highway and 50 mpg combined. Those figures apply to its new 1.8-liter hybrid system.

How is the 2010 Prius different from the 2009 Prius?

The 2010 Prius is a full redesign rather than a light update. It has a larger 1.8-liter hybrid system, 134 total horsepower, improved fuel economy, more cabin and cargo room, standard four-wheel disc brakes, new driving modes and a quieter structure.

What are the main differences among the 2010 Prius trims?

The 2010 trims mainly differ in convenience, cabin comfort and exterior equipment. Prius II is the mainstream version, Prius III adds JBL audio and Bluetooth, Prius IV adds leather-trimmed heated front seats, and Prius V adds 17-inch wheels, LED headlights and fog lamps; Prius I is the simplified entry trim.

Does the 2010 Toyota Prius have different driving modes?

Yes. The 2010 Prius has EV, Eco and Power modes. They favor short low-speed electric operation, greater efficiency or quicker accelerator response, respectively.