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Step 1
Be patient. The Prius is a car that takes some time to come into its own. Don't expect to achieve great mileage in the first few months of ownership. Once your shiny new hybrid has 10,000 to 15,000 miles under his belt, the gas mileage will get much better.
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Step 2
Increase your tire pressure. Pump up the Prius to the level recommended on the sidewalls of the vehicle and maintain this pressure at all times. Ignore the level suggested by the automaker, which is usually found on the inside frame of the driver's door.
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Step 3
Master the art of gliding. Once you have been driving for a few minutes and the car is warmed up, take your foot from the accelerator. Allow a few seconds to pass, and then place a small amount of pressure back on to the accelerator. The arrows on the Prius' Energy Monitor will momentarily go away if this is done correctly. You may also feel the car pulling forward.
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Step 4
Incorporate coasting and regenerative braking into your driving routine. Coasting is the process of keeping your foot off both the car's accelerator and brake. Put simply, regenerative braking is an action the Prius takes as the car slows down. This places less stress on the hybrid's brakes. When you have reached your desired speed, take your foot from the gas pedal, but resist the temptation to place it on the brake.
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Step 5
Drive when it's warm. Cold outside air is denser, which creates resistance against the hybrid. Cruising on a hot, humid day will save you some cash at the gas pump.
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Step 6
Fill your Prius tank with low-octane fuel.
