Toyota expects to solidify its position as the region’s leader in hybrid sales with the new Prius, which the automaker says is greener and more fun to drive than its predecessor.
Compared with the previous model, the fourth-generation Prius uses 23% less fuel, 3.0 liters of petrol per 100 kilometers down from 3.9l/km, and emits 21% less CO2 at 70 grams per kilometer down from 89g/km.
Toyota engineers managed to reduce both numbers through an overhaul of the engine that improved its thermal efficiency by 40%. The new Prius also has better aerodynamics and a lighter electric motor that is 20% more efficient.
Fast facts
Drive technology: The Prius is the first Toyota-brand vehicle to offer a color head-up display, which includes content such as vehicle speed, amount of battery charge and the state of the hybrid system. Other available features include adaptive cruise control with the ability to be used at all speeds and lane departure warning.
Cabin features: The new Prius is available with a wireless mobile phone charger, which is located below the center stack.
Rolling needs: The new Prius needs to be fitted with 14-inch wheels to achieve its lowest fuel use and CO2 numbers. With 17-inch wheels fuel use rises 10 percent and CO2 output increases by 8.6 percent.
Battery upgrade: Toyota moved the battery pack from the trunk to below the backseat, which increases the cargo space by 56 liters to 501 liters.
