Quote:
Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr
The CLA is targetted at a different segment than the Prius and the Insight. Anyway, there are some hybrids that are not really a benchmark on aerodynamics, such as the old Chevy Tahoe Hybrid  |
Yes but the tahoe hybrid was not an exericse is maximizing MPG like the prius and insight were. The prius had the goal of maximum MPG, so it's probable (and yes I'm making an assumption) that the direction was given to the engineers to make it as aerodynamic as possible hence it's form follows funtion look. With the insight the goal that Honda chose was almost as good MPG for much less cost, so again an assumption, but the engineers were probably given very little choice but to use a wedge shape.
So the popularity of those two cars causes people to say that's what a hybrid looks like when in fact they don't go hand in hand, ie the Tahoe or Escalade, or even the prius C/V.
Maybe you'll be happy with the next prius as interviews with Toyota employees on the project say they will be departing from the wedge shape to satisfy US tastes for a more normal looking car.