The 4th gen Prius was unveiled today in Las Vegas. The vehicle will go on sale in Japan at the end of 2015, and is subsequently scheduled for successive launches around the world. Toyota went to great lengths to ensure that the appeal of the fourth-generation model would extend well beyond the car’s proven environmental credentials: the new model also boasts a stylish, attractive design in keeping with its fun-to-drive nature. Additionally, as the first global vehicle to use the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the new Prius has a completely new, more rigid platform which, combined with a class-leading low center of gravity and a new front and rear suspension, offer a fun, refined drive.
From the bold design to the quality interior, the Prius has never had such a powerful presence. Toyota’s designers were given free rein to realize their vision, and it shows. The new model inherits the nameplate’s signature triangular silhouette. It’s 60 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm lower than the model it replaces, providing a much more planted on-road presence while also delivering more occupant and cargo room. The new front suspension and rear double wishbone suspension gives the new Prius a greater connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions.
Improvements to chassis rigidity mean that the Prius is noticeably more responsive in corners. In addition to creating a dynamic, exciting driving experience, TNGA provides a high-strength framework and stiffened structure to help enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision. The high strength upper body is designed to distribute frontal collision impact energy. Additional reinforcements have been adopted to distribute side collision impact energy.
Active safety systems have also received a significant update: all models will feature the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes (depending on grade and market) Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Road Sign Assist is available exclusively in Europe.
Almost every internal component of the Prius engine is new or substantially revised effectively blueprinted to the finest limits and tolerances.
A comprehensive program of size and weight reductions for major hybrid components was achieved while maintaining overall performance. As a result, the Prius has achieved a remarkable world’s best, with over 40 percent thermal efficiency and a huge boost in fuel economy, contributing significantly to overall driver enjoyment and fewer visits to the fueling station.
