Toyota Prius
0-100 km/h: 12,65 seconds Top speed: 180 km/h Power: 90 kw Torque: 142 N.m CO2: 87 g/km Fuel consumption: 4,44 L/100 km (fuel index)
It is not attractive to look at but it certainly is futuristic and that is what it was intended to be at the time … a glimpse of the future. The vehicle is also much more aerodynamic than all the angles and protrusions suggest. It has become evident that vast improvements to both battery design and solar power generation have sealed the fate of the oily combustion engine. As a believer in simplicity when it comes to mobility, we have never really been in favour of the complication of an engine coupled to an electric motor driven by a battery. With time and experience, however, we have softened our stance as pure EVS often face the issue of insufficient range for South African conditions. This matter is slowly but surely being addressed as ranges increase but hybrids do give you added peace of mind when it comes to longer trips. Fuel consumption matches some diesel-engined superminis so a hybrid cannot be ignored. In 2009, the Prius emitted 112 g/km of CO₂ and had a fuel index figure of 5,64 L/100 km; by 2016, those had dropped to 87 g/km and 4,44 L/100 km, showing improvements.
The first models were introduced in the late ’90s with a 1,5-litre engine as opposed to the newer 1,8-litre. This used advanced Atkinson cycle technology. The next version in 2016 moved the combined power output up to 90 kw, which made for heartier performance.
Interestingly, Toyota used both nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries. For cold, snowy climes overseas, the former fares better. Note that the older version has a much larger boot at 445 litres compared to the newer at just 224 litres. Toyota ICES are well-known for their reliability … as long as oil changes are religiously adhered to. Battery packs are another issue completely. Being an unknown factor to most of us, Toyota provides a warranty of 10 years, so your 2009 model might require replacement at some stage. Admittedly, there are not many of these hybrids available but the exercise will become more relevant in the future as owners trade new vehicles.