Toyota's chief engineer, Akihiko Otsuka, chose a curvy test-drive course near Mount Fuji to show off the smooth handling of the prototype of the remodeled Prius hybrid, set to reach showrooms in May.

He proudly told reporters about its outstanding mileage - 50 miles per gallon - roof solar panel, collision safety features and how fun it was to drive.

But throughout the recent event at Fuji Speedway, Otsuka was just as intent on stressing how the Prius performed better than the new, hot-selling rival hybrid from Honda, the Insight. He did say he surprised, however, at the upstart's price - $2,000 to $4,000 less than the current Prius model.