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Sedans Luxury Lounge
21430 messages, Last post on Nov 29, 2009 at 6:29 PM
You are in the Sedans Forum. Your Hosts are pat & karens
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Replying to: tagman (Jan 13, 2009 9:31 pm) The Hyundai Genesis. Just like the Hyundai Genesis I think the Prius transcends its price tag .Why? Let's just look at the technology of a Prius compared to cars that are many times its price and you will know what I mean. Also I read BMW is developing two mode hybrids that based on the descriptions sounds almost prehistoric when compared to Toyota's new HSD technology. Here's a a very brief and short list of some of the technologies that will be available in the new Prius: Use of an electric water pump and a new exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system also contribute to the engine's efficiency. The 1.8-liter Toyota Prius engine is the first Toyota power plant that requires no belts under the hood for better fuel economy and less potential maintenance. The patented Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2010 Toyota Prius is 90 percent newly-developed with significant improvements over previous models. * The transaxle is lighter in weight and reduces torque losses by as much as 20 percent compared to the previous model. * The inverter, which converts direct current to alternating current, has a new direct cooling system to reduce size and weight. * Taken together, the inverter, motor and transaxle are smaller and 20 percent lighter. * A newly developed electronically controlled regenerative braking system has been adopted, with control logic optimized to enhance regeneration. The new Toyota Prius will offer three alternative driving modes. EV-Drive Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile, if conditions permit. There is also a Power Mode, which increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel, and an Eco Mode, which helps the driver achieve their best mileage. The new Prius received more wind tunnel hours of testing than any other Toyota in history, resulting in the cleanest aerodynamic profile of any mass-produced vehicle in the world. By focusing on the shape of the body, underfloor, wheelhouse liner and shape of the wheels, the designers of the new Toyota Prius were able to reduce the coefficient of drag (Cd) value to 0.25, compared to 0.26 for the previous model. The airflow under the car was studied extensively. Engineers made changes to the shape of the fender liner, front surface of the underfloor, and added a fin at the rear floor cover to increase linear stability. An available sliding glass moonroof is packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a new ventilation system. This solar powered ventilation system uses an electrically powered air circulation fan that does not require engine assist. The system prevents the interior air temperature from rising while the vehicle is parked, making the cool-down time shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning. The remote air-conditioning system is the first system in the world to function on battery-power alone and that can be remotely operated, so the driver can adjust the interior temperature for comfort before getting in the car. Reducing the vehicle's power consumption, available LED (light emitting diode) lamps are used for low beams and also in the tail and stop lamps. Air conditioning, a major energy drain, has been re-engineered to increase efficiency and cool-down performance. In addition, an exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance. It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane, and the Pre-Collision System, which retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a crash is unavoidable. Next-generation Intelligent Parking Assist features simplified settings to help guide the car into parking spaces. A backup monitor, which provides a view of rear obstacles when reverse is engaged, is available with an optional voice-activated navigation system. Safety Connect, Toyota's first safety and security service, includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and an SOS call button. Safety Connect will be available a few months after launch.
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| I'm not sure Tag, from the pics the HS doesn't seem to share other Lexus' design theme..... | |
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Replying to: dewey (Jan 14, 2009 9:19 am) My situation is that I need to dramatically reduce the number of cars I already have, and I must decide what to keep and what to sell. I have decided earlier this morning to sell my Ford F-150, even though it is only two months after acquiring it. I had breakfast with my Ford rep to iron out the details. The Porsche has already been for sale, but no buyers yet. That leaves the Jag and the 135i. That's a very tough choice. Yes, the Genesis won the award. I read about it, but didn't post here because I have already posted my belief in the Genesis so many times here. I originally, and steadily, have posted nothing but full confidence in the Genesis and I have predicted its success from day one. The award is just another testimony to what the Genesis is all about. I hope more of the posters here are starting to "get it", and appreciate what the Genesis is all about. Did you say you already placed your order for the Prius? TM |
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Replying to: dewey (Jan 14, 2009 9:19 am)
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Replying to: tagman (Jan 14, 2009 11:09 am) I called two sales reps from two dealers to call me as soon as they have the pricing. Whoever calls me first will get my business. |
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Replying to: cyclone4 (Jan 14, 2009 11:12 am) Just remember it will still be your wife's car no matter what she chooses.  |
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Replying to: tagman (Jan 14, 2009 11:09 am) Assuming the following conditions existed with regards to my BMW 335i: I lived in warm California I did not get traffic tickets My car was not a piece of junk in terms of reliability I would not consider buying a Prius this year if the the three above conditions applied to my situation. I would keep my BMW for years if that was the case. Now my question to you is why are you considering selling your BMW 135i for a Prius?
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Replying to: dewey (Jan 14, 2009 3:21 pm) Dewey, I really wish they could sort out all of the issues with your 335. It is really a great car. BTW, has anyone ever heard there is a very, very little known way you can complain to BMW and you can get a new car if you have a trouble-plagued car? The story I heard from a CEO was they allocate cars for direct replacement of their lemons. I would hope you could go that route first, if you should so desire. Regards, OW
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a lot of urban dwellers here for the scale to tilt so heavily, lately to hybrids. I can appreciate the latest in tech (& also dread until it's refined), but it seems like the fun factor of driving has been kilt, especially for Dewey. I can only speak for my area, but there are plenty of roads less traveled to enjoy. I'll join the hybrid bandwagon when it's eventually forced down my throat (though deisel suits my driving more), but until then, I'm going to combat our global cooling that's happening.
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