Toyota showed several new models at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It had world premieres for both the new Avensis and the new Prius family of full hybrid models. The new 2012 Hilux also made its European debut and the three-door version of the recently launched new Yaris was on public view for the first time.
The mid-life update changes to the British-built Avensis include revised exterior styling, incorporating a frontal treatment that follows Toyota's new design language.
The quality look and feel of the interior have been improved and strategic changes have been made to the powertrains and driving dynamics. Together, Toyota tells us, these changes represent the largest mid-life investment it has made for any model.
With more than 2.3 million worldwide sales, Prius's success story is well established. At Frankfurt a new chapter opened with the world-first introduction of the new Prius family of models. Toyota's full hybrid model has been updated and is joined by the production version of Prius plug-in hybrid and the seven-seat Prius+. The introduction of these models makes Prius the first full hybrid to be offered as a complete, stand-alone model range.
Each new model has been developed to expand the Prius customer base by catering for specific customer needs. Prius plug-in hybrid is the most technically advanced Prius yet, with CO2 emissions potentially as low as 49g/km. Prius+ will deliver sub-100g/km CO2 emissions and is the first vehicle in Europe to offer the versatility of seven seats with the benefit of a full hybrid powertrain.
The Hilux, which is Europe's best-selling pick-up, has also undergone major restyling for 2012, reinforcing its credentials as a vehicle cut out for hard work and for leisure driving. The exterior changes are complemented by a new-look interior that offers the comfort and convenience of a passenger car.
Completing the new Toyota arrivals on their busy stand at Frankfurt was the three-door version of new Yaris, which was making its public debut.
