The all-new Prius takes a bold step forward!
The fourth generation Toyota Prius makes its bold début – redefining expectations and setting the standard for hybrid cars.
The first Prius went on sale internationally in 1997, as the first mass-produced hybrid passenger car. Its outstanding environmental performance, changed perceptions and helped raise the status of alternative energy vehicles. As of 31 July 2015, Prius sales amounted to 3.5 million vehicles worldwide!
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South Africa saw its first Prius in 2005, in its second generation and was the first hybrid vehicle on the local market. Thanks to pioneers such as the Prius, modern cars are expected to have good environmental performance as standard. With the fourth-generation Prius, Toyota have gone to great lengths to ensure that its appeal will extend well beyond the car’s proven environmental performance.
The new Prius will go on sale in Japan at the end of 2015, and is subsequently scheduled for successive launches around the world. South African introduction is currently under study.
The new model inherits the nameplate’s signature triangular silhouette which, combined with a low centre of gravity, results in an impressively angular yet emotive design. The use of new headlamps minimises the Prius’ frontal area and, at the same time, provides a striking lighting display which helps define the vehicle’s distinctive character.
Up to eight exterior colours are available, including “Emotional Red” which utilises a newly developed treatment process to achieve a deep, vibrant lustre that highlights the external forms.
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According to Kouji Toyoshima, the model’s chief engineer:
“There is much more to the new Prius than a green image. The exterior has a particularly emotive appearance, thanks in part to the new platform that enables a low slung silhouette similar to a sports car.”
A sense of quality and space is created through the wide instrument panel with its layered construction that clearly defines the “display zone”, separating it from the “control zone” which is now closer to the driver.
The new Prius features a chassis that is 60% more rigid, while the powertrain unit’s lower placement and low centre of gravity has increased the vehicle’s stability and comfort.
Improvements to chassis rigidity mean that the Prius is noticeably more responsive in corners. Whether meandering up a mountain pass or exploring the urban jungle, the new Prius’ handling is taken to an all-new level while maintaining excellent occupant comfort.
Almost every internal component of the Prius engine is new or substantially revised – effectively blueprinted to the finest limits and tolerances. A comprehensive programme of size and weight reductions for major hybrid components was achieved while maintaining overall performance.
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As a result, the Prius has achieved a remarkable world’s best, with over 40% thermal efficiency and a huge boost in fuel economy, contributing significantly to overall driver enjoyment and fewer visits to the fuelling station.