"2012 Toyota Prius v has reason to be smug," this quite from Detroit News has a point - for once the "S" word is not an insult, but a compliment to the legacy of Prius models, and the new "Prius Family."¹

There's a new line of hybrid cars coming to Metro Toyota, located at 13775 Brookpark Road in Cleveland, OH - which includes the larger sibling Toyota Prius v.

The Japanese auto maker hopes to introduce a new models, including the original, a compact, van size (MPV) and more to a green car loving public.

This Prius model is larger…

·  When you drive a little faster, you burn considerably more fuel. Slow down and increase your Toyota's fuel efficiency.

·  Once you're out on the highway at cruising speed, use your vehicle's cruise control. You'll burn less fuel if you do.

·  Slow down for hills. Maintaining your speed up a hill means opening your vehicle's throttle, which burns more gas. On down hills, use gravity to help increase speed and improve fuel economy.

·  Accelerate only when you have to, and only as much as you need to. Avoid jackrabbit starts, bring your Toyota to speed with a light right foot, and maintain smooth progress on the road.

·  For slowing down or stopping, get off the gas as soon as you can. Use your brakes when you need to, but allow the other forces working on your vehicle to help slow you down.

·  Whenever you can, keep your windows closed to decrease drag. For climate control, use your vehicle's air conditioning. It's the lesser of two evils.

If you winter in sunnier climes, you may not drive your Ohio vehicle for an extended period of time. This has several effects on your vehicle that you should be aware of:

·  When you drive less or park a vehicle for an extended period of time, it can compromise the battery life and efficiency, especially if there is a digital display/clock or security system that's always on. The alternator re-charges the battery with regular driving, but when stationary, these electronic systems simply serve as a slow drain on the battery.

·  Tires generally lose up to 1 pound of pressure per month whether driven regularly or parked, so it is important to check tire pressure monthly and rotate tires using the manufacturer's specified maintenance schedule.

·  Flat spots on a tire can also occur if a vehicle remains parked in one location for a long period of time. This can lead to unwanted vibrations and a rougher ride.

HELPFUL TIPS TO SAVE SOME GREEN

·         Having regular service can spot many problems that reduce gas mileage and increase pollution, such as a broken thermostat, low transmission fluid, sticky brake calipers--or even something as simple as a dirty air filter.

·         Cleaning out all the junk you have accumulated in your car can give a few extra miles to your gas tank. The extra weight causes your vehicle to work harder and consume more fuel.

·          Driving style. Gentle acceleration after stopping, coasting when possible (manual vehicles) and being less aggressive in traffic can literally add two to three miles per…

·         When you drive a little faster, you burn considerably more fuel. Slow down and increase your Toyota's fuel efficiency.

·         Once you're out on the highway at cruising speed, use your vehicle's cruise control. You'll burn less fuel if you do.

·         Slow down for hills. Maintaining your speed up a hill means opening your vehicle's throttle, which burns more gas. On down hills, use gravity to help increase speed and improve fuel economy.

·         Accelerate only when you have to, and only as much as you need to. Avoid jackrabbit starts, bring your Toyota to speed with…