Toyota has announced that the introduction of the all-new fourth generation Prius marks a further advance in the history and achievements of their hybrid power technology. It goes on sale here in December.
The new model builds on the strengths and achievements of its predecessors and is set to establish new benchmarks in fuel economy, emissions, and efficiency. Each successive Prius has delivered improvements in these areas, but the new model is aiming to make the biggest leap yet in performance, with a target of improving CO2 emissions by 18 per cent.
Toyota says that this achievement is only one aspect of a product that has evolved to acquire new capabilities and greater driver appeal. Powered by a new generation of Toyota’s full hybrid powertrain, the new Prius marks significant advances in highway fuel economy and provides a much more rewarding driving experience.
Toyota claims that acceleration is smoother and more responsive, and, at higher speeds, is quieter and has a more linear feel that is better aligned to engine speed.
The new car’s dynamic capabilities are rooted in the use of the first Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA ) platform. Toyota says this endows the car with a lower centre of gravity for improved handling response and stability. It also gives the designers a freer hand to craft a car that has richer visual appeal, with lower lines overall and a more athletic profile.
The Prius remains Toyota’s technological ambassador, a showcase for new, relevant technologies that raise levels of safety, convenience, performance, and comfort.
Safety remains a priority, with the TNGA chassis optimised for excellent impact performance. The scope of the Toyota Safety Sense package is extended in the new Prius with the addition of radar-managed adaptive cruise control and a pedestrian detection function for the pre-crash safety system.
More on the new Prius and Irish specifications and prices closer to the Irish launch in December.
