ECO Mode

1) the A/C is 'relaxed' so it is less likely to run while you are loading down the power available, staying in an efficient mode. If you are not using much A/C, this is of limited value.

2) the throttle is mapped so you have a great deal of sensitivity at early pedal positions. In contrast, Power mode gives you a great deal of sensitivity at pedal positions near the floor. Normal mode does not alter sensitivity with pedal position.

 

Just FYI - there is no power mode on the C. We have "normal," ECO and EV. I've done some passing of turtle cars on two lane highways and been perfectly content with the responsiveness of normal mode (thank goodness).

 

I have found the eco mode to help raise mpg slightly and have had the AC on full blast with no change at all. The AC works great in eco or normal driving. Have used eco in town and on the freeways. I generally take it off to accelerate when getting on the freeway at 70 mph as it seems to accelerate a bit slower in eco. For just fun driving the normal range seems to be a bit more responsive.

 

I use ECO Mode while in parking lots. Anywhere else the Prius tells me ECO mode is not applicable.

 

I think you are confusing ECO mode with EV mode.

 

Huh? That's my cell phone!

(Yep, sorry about that).