2016
Toyota Prius
The
same vehicle that pioneered the hybrid category just disrupted the status quo
again. The all-new, fourth-generation Toyota Prius starred in a spectacular
evening production of music, food and special effects to celebrate an industry
icon in a way that was anything but expected.
Today's
consumers expect environmental credentials, and the new Prius delivers.
Smaller, lighter hybrid system components, higher-energy density in the
batteries, and an internal combustion engine touting ground-breaking thermal
efficiency (more than forty percent), contribute to a significant advancement
in fuel economy. With an expected ten percent improvement in EPA estimated MPG
on core models, Prius will offer best-in-class fuel economy among vehicles
without a plug. A soon-to-be unveiled Eco model will achieve an even greater
improvement, strengthening Toyota's leadership in hybrid fuel efficiency.
But
it's not just about MPG anymore. Today's customers want all the traditional
benefits of a hybrid, but don't want to compromise on looks and performance. So
Toyota upgraded the Prius inside and out to deliver the complete package -
emotional styling, smarter technology and impressive MPG, in a vehicle that's
more fun to drive than ever.
The
Prius' exterior has been completely reimagined. From the side, it is longer and
sleeker with the overall outline evoking an athletic shape. Inspired by a
runner in the starting blocks, the sporty design conveys a feeling of forward
motion.
The
hood is lower and the distinctive roof peak has been moved forward. Bold
character lines run along the side from the front fenders - one just above the
sill that sweeps up towards the rear fender, while the upper crease morphs into
the rear spoiler, which has been lowered.
The
use of new standard LED headlamps minimizes the Prius' front fascia and, at the
same time, provides an arresting lighting display which helps define the
vehicle's character. The unique and striking rear combination lamps express the
distinctive lines of the Prius from the rear spoiler to the trailing edges of
the sides.
A
palette of seven exterior colors includes an all-new Toyota hue,
"Hypersonic Red." This new color utilizes a newly developed treatment
process, which results in a deep and vibrant luster highlighting the external
forms.
The
Toyota Prius' new, premium interior adopts advanced technology complemented by
features that are functional, fun and have high VISUAL IMPACT. The wrap-around
dash design, form-hugging seats, ease of controls and improved visibility put
the driver in complete control.
Once
inside, drivers will feel immediately comfortable and impressed by styling cues
that are unique in the industry. The wide instrument panel, seamlessly designed
to be both functional and beautiful, gives a sense of comfort and spaciousness.
Available premium white ornamentation in the lower sections of the cabin is
reminiscent of fine bone china.
The
2016 Prius is the first global vehicle to implement Toyota's New Global
Architecture (TNGA). TNGA aims to greatly improve core vehicle performance and
enhance product appeal through an integrated development program for powertrain
components and vehicle platforms. Development of vehicles is being grouped to
promote strategic sharing of components with the goal of improving resource
efficiency by better than twenty percent. Resources will be directed into
developing advanced technologies, and most importantly even further
strengthening product appeal.
Engineered
from the ground up, the new Prius is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and
0.8 inches lower than the model it replaces, providing a planted on-road
presence while delivering more occupant and cargo room.
Hallmarks
of TNGA, a lower center of gravity and a more responsive suspension package,
dial up the driving excitement. In fact, the height of the Prius' front badge
is exactly the same as that of Scion's FR-S sports car - a remarkable
achievement in height and mass reduction.
The
all-new rear double wishbone suspension produces a better connection to the
road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions. A more
rigid body helps improve responsiveness while cornering. From winding mountain
roads to the wide boulevards downtown, the new Prius stays connected to the
road, without sacrificing ride quality and occupant comfort.
TNGA
also provides a more rigid structural framework to help enhance occupant
protection in the event of a collision. The high strength upper body is
designed to distribute frontal collision impact energy. Plus, the Prius will be
among the first U.S. models to offer Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a new
multi-feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision
braking.
The
new Prius will arrive in dealerships in early 2016. Reports indicate that the current
1.8 litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine will soldier on, but with tweaks to
improve performance – total system power output is rumoured to hit the 150 hp
mark – and achieve the aforementioned efficiency figure. A 10% improvement in
fuel economy is promised on core models, with a forthcoming Eco model touted to
offer even lower consumption
