According to Toyota, the new Prius will get about 50 mpg in town and about 49 on the open road, up a few mpgs from the current version.  This is better mileage than the Prius’s main competitor, the Honda Insight.  The 2010 Prius also includes a 1.8 litre engine and an all-electric water pump, air conditioner, and power steering—there are no belts anywhere.

As far as looks go, the 2010 Prius is a bit shapelier and more aerodynamic, saving yet a bit more petrol.  It also includes a solar panel on the roof that keeps the car’s internal fan running while you’re out of the car running errands.  This reduces the drain on the air conditioning.  The new Prius will be available at the end of May.