1 minute read
Primed for fifth generation
from April issue out now
by Autofile
The Prius has been given an update with the new model featuring Toyota’s latest fifth-generation hybrid system.
The all-new series-parallel hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants are now available in Japan as twolitre and 1.8l models.
The model first hit the market in 1997 as the world’s first massproduced hybrid and has helped drive the global uptake of petrol hybrids over the years.
Toyota describes the latest iteration, developed under its “hybrid reborn” concept, as an “exhilarating package with a captivating driving performance” alongside its environmentally friendly credentials.
It comes with the signature monoform silhouette of the original Prius, but has a lower centre of gravity and a second-generation Toyota global architecture that allows for large-diameter tyres.
An “island” concept creates a spacious interior and eight body colours are available, including two newly developed – the solid base colours of ash and mustard.
Compared to the previous model Prius A Touring Selection, the two-litre Z and G grades achieve fuel efficiency of 28.6km/l.
They also offer a maximum system output of 144kW, which is 1.6 times more than the previous units, while 1.8l U and X grades boast fuel efficiency of 32.6km/l.
The latest E-Four system features in the new Prius. This provides improved uphill performance on low-friction road surfaces, such as snow-covered roads, and greater stability when turning.
The marque’s safety sense system is standard and features include a number of firsts for a Toyota.
Among them is rear-vehicle proximity notification. This uses the blind-spot monitor’s rear millimetrewave radar to detect cars in the rear and, if another one is approaching, alerts the driver via a multiinformation display and buzzer.
Approaching vehicle-proximity support is also part of the package. If a car coming from behind is too close, this system offers the driver suggestions for dealing with the issue, including contacting the police.
In models equipped with a drive automatically filming the event, the system stores the data in a dedicated area that makes it difficult to record over.
A secondary collision brake to mitigate impacts to the rear when stopped is also installed. If this system determines a very high possibility of a crash while the car is stationary, it applies the brakes to reduce speed if a rear collision occurs.
