Toyota hybrid pioneer rewrites the rulebook
The fourth generation Toyota Prius for 2016 is even better in nearly every way imaginable, moving from pioneer status to that of Hybrid icon. The claimed EPA mileage estimates are 58 mpg city, 53 mpg highway, and 53 mpg combined for the new Prius II Eco, which can be bested with only a minimal amount of effort and focus, but given the way most Prius owners really drive their cars, the actual mileage will probably fall considerably short of the Prius’ potential for economy.
The new Prius lineup comes in six levels of trim or grades: Prius Two represents the base level, with a new Prius Two Eco option; followed by the mid- range PriusThree, with a Prius Three Touring option; and finally, there is a premium grade Prius Four, which also offers a Prius Four Touring option.
All new Prius models feature the same basic powertrain based on Toyota’s New Global Architecture. The powertrain consists of a 2ZRFXE 1.8- liter Atkinson Cycle, DOHC, 16- valve VVT- I four- cylinder gas engine, with a Motor Generator Two — Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor — Max Voltage — DC600V with 71 hp/ 53 kW and 120 pound feet of torque. The Hybrid Battery Pack - NIckel- Metal Hydride — DC201.6V ( 168 x 1.2V cells) or Lithium- Ion — DC207.2V ( 56 cells) delivers 95 horsepower at 5,200 rpm along with 105 pound feet of torque at 3,600 rpm. The Hybrid Systems Net horsepower is 121. Engines and motors are mounted up front In a transverse orientation, driving the front wheels through an Electronically Controlled Variable Transmission.
In terms of its exterior appearance, the new Toyota Prius still presents a familiar form, but now displays a strikingly dramatic and more emotional design that is considerably more refined, and aerodynamics are improved, with a 0.24 coefficient of drag. In other words, Prius is now longer and wider, and is a really good looking vehicle, with a slippery profile in all of its trim levels.
The new Prius delivers a premium interior debuting advanced technology complemented by functional features that are fun and visually
2016 Toyota Prius II Eco Hybrid Liftback Base price: $ 24,700 Price as tested: $ 25,600 Engine/ transmission: 1.8- liter, 2ZR- FXE DOHC 16- valve VVT- i, 4- cylinder
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches Length: 178.7 inches Width: 69.3 inches Height: 58.1 inches Curb weight: 3,010 pounds Fuel capacity: 11.3 gallons
Fuel consumption: 58 mpg city/ 53 mpg highway
appealing. The wrap- around dash design, form- hugging seats, ease of controls and enhanced visibility combine to make this latest iteration Prius a highly engaging automobile. The new interior is much quieter than the previous model, with improved NVH.
SUMMARY: With this fourth generation Prius, Toyota continues its quest for optimum fuel economy, and by 2020, the goal is to have a hybrid option for every Toyota model.
This latest example of Prius development continues to manage the intelligent evolvement to an ever better and more ecologically friendly vehicle, with increased sustainable mobility. The new Prius models perform well on the highway or in the inner city, while delivering a comfortable ride with admirable handling characteristics from the perspective of both genders.
To effectively put the new Prius through its paces and to demonstrate safety technology, three venues were set up at the old El Toro Marine air base in southern California. The first exercise showcased the Pre- Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, the second demonstration focused on handling characteristics and ride quality on a challenging autocross course comparing the 2016 Prius with the 2015 Prius. The third venue allowed experiencing Toyota’s Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
In the final analysis, the 2016 Toyota Prius in its various grades is an attractive and practical Hybrid liftback that exhibits Prius DNA, but in a much more appealing package. It also delivers sportier handling traits, while providing a comfortable and stable ride. The new Prius is also a functional and versatile hybrid vehicle that’s suitable for grocery getting or long haul excursions.