Acceleration Performance of a 2.4-Liter Class and Astonishing Fuel Economy of 38.0 km/ℓ

Launched in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid passenger car, the Prius has been sold in over 40 countries, with cumulative sales exceeding 1.25 million units by the end of March 2009. The new model announced this time aims to solidify its position as the top global hybrid brand by doubling its sales countries to approximately 80. Sales will commence sequentially in other countries, starting with Japan.

The key features of the new Prius are likely its significantly evolved hybrid system and the resulting improvement in fuel efficiency.
By increasing the engine displacement from 1.5 to 1.8 liters, an additional 20 horsepower has been achieved. Furthermore, a 10-watt increase in motor output realizes acceleration performance comparable to a 2.4-liter class vehicle. Despite this, thanks to improvements in system efficiency, enhanced high-speed fuel economy, and outstanding aerodynamic performance, it has achieved a world-leading fuel economy of 38.0 km/ℓ (both 10-15 mode values), significantly surpassing the previous model's 35.5 km/ℓ. While retaining the "THS II" system name, over 90% of the entire system has actually been newly developed.

Reservations Exceed 80,000 Units

By adopting the "Auris" platform, handling has also been greatly improved. Combined with a suspension that offers increased roll rigidity, the ride is quiet and comfortable, with significantly enhanced driving stability. In addition to the standard driving mode, the new Prius also features selectable drive modes for various scenarios and the "Solar Ventilation System," which uses solar power to expel interior heat outside the vehicle, making these advanced features a major characteristic of the new model.

The user interface has also been completely revamped. While hybrid vehicles have reached a high level of completion in terms of hardware (systems and transmissions), it is said that there is still significant room for improvement in fuel efficiency through software aspects, such as driving techniques. The newly adopted "Hybrid Indicator" uses a single meter to guide the driver on how to optimally operate the accelerator and brake pedals for eco-driving, enabling consistently efficient and eco-friendly driving characteristic of a hybrid.

The Prius has also seen an increase in body size, refinement in its interior, and enhanced power performance, elevating its class from the previous generation. The price, which is of keen interest, ranges from ¥2.05 million for the base L model up to ¥3.27 million for the G "Touring Selection" Leather Package, with a total of six grades available.

Toyota anticipates "300,000 to 400,000 units in the first year," but orders received by the announcement date had already surpassed 80,000 units. Considering the upcoming sales launch in various countries worldwide, this figure is by no means unattainable.

Finally, on the 18th, concurrently with the announcement of the new model, Toyota Motor Corporation officially announced the release of the second-generation Prius for business use. Sales will begin on June 8th. It will be available in a single grade, the "EX Grade," priced at ¥1.89 million.

TOYOTA PRIUS
Body | Overall Length 4460 × Overall Width 1745 × Overall Height 1490mm, Wheelbase 2700mm
Vehicle Weight | 1310kg (L), 1350kg (G, S)
Engine | 1.8L Inline 4-cylinder + Motor
Maximum Output | Engine: 73kW [99ps]/5200rpm
Motor: 60kW [82ps]
Maximum Torque | Engine: 142Nm [14.5kgm]/4000rpm
Motor: 207Nm [21.1kgm]
Drive System | FF
Transmission | Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
Price | ¥2,355,000 - ¥3,197,000


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