Toyota Prius
Toyota Prius Overview
Toyota Prius is the first petrol-electric hybrid car that reached the level of mass production more than a decade ago. The car was first introduced in the country of its origin Japan and now new Prius cars are available in various countries. Today, Prius is considered as a benchmark for any and every new hybrid vehicle.
Prius has a petrol engine as well as an electric motor to power it and hence it does not lack in performance. Moreover, it is well renowned for its advanced aerodynamic design and styling that gives this car a unique look and even increases its fuel efficiency. New Toyota Prius comes fully loaded with state of the art features that add to the comfort, safety, convenience, security and environment-friendliness of the car.
Toyota Prius Launch History
In 1995 at the Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota unveiled a concept hybrid car. This concept car went on to become the first petrol-electric hybrid car. Known as Toyota Prius, this car became a runaway success, when it was launched in Japan in 1997. Later on Prius was presented in other countries as well and today this car is available in more than 70 countries.
Toyota Prius car has gone through two generations modifications and the second one was presented in 2003, replacing the original model launched in 1997. In 2009, the Japanese car maker Toyota, presented the third generation of Prius, also referred to as new Toyota Prius. This third generation of the hybrid vehicle was launched in India at the Auto Expo held in January 2010 at New Delhi. This model of new Prius car saw a facelift in 2011, with addition of certain new attributes.
The Frankfurt Motor Show held in September 2011 became the venue for the production version of the 'plug-in' model of Prius, where it was unveiled. It is expected that this model will be made available in some international markets by early 2012.
Toyota Prius Variants (Models)
Prius is available in two variants namely Toyota Prius Z3 and Toyota Prius Z4. Both variants have the same technical specifications; however, these have different features. The Z3 is the lower variant and it does not have leather seats. Price of Toyota Prius Z4 is also higher than the Z3 variant.
Toyota Prius Pricing
New Prius car price for the Z3 variant ranges from Rs. 27 lacs to Rs. 28 lacs in the Indian Automotive market. On the other hand, the Z4 variant of Toyota Prius in India is available in the price range of Rs. 29 lacs to Rs. 30 lacs. A major factor on which new Prius price depends, is the city of purchase as different states have different tax regimes. Moreover, Toyota Prius price depends on the added features.
Toyota Prius Review
Receiving excellent reviews from the media as well as the public, new Toyota Prius car has been rated as one of the most popular cars in the world. Prius was developed with an aim to maximise fuel efficiency by reducing fuel consumption. Hence, electric motor is used to run the vehicle. The company has not compromised on the comfort and safety features in the car. In addition to that, Prius has been one of the most stylist cars in the Indian automobile market.
Winning critical acclaim for its environment-friendly engine that gives the perfect combination of performance and fuel efficiency, Toyota Prius has been one of the hot favourites of Indian car lovers. The fact that more than 1.5 million Toyota Prius cars have been sold around the world till now, speaks of the popularity and praise enjoyed by the hybrid car.
Toyota Prius Used Car Market
Toyota Prius in India is available in the used car market as part of the company's 'Toyota Trust Certified U-Cars' programme. However, the car is relatively new in the Indian Automotive market and has a high initial cost. Subsequently, it is difficult to actually find a used Toyota Prius car in India. Belonging to the premium segment, Prius carries an exceptional resale value.
Toyota Prius Specifications
The specifications for new Toyota Prius car have been described below:
| Specifications |
Toyota Prius |
| Engine |
| Name |
2ZR-FXE |
| No. of Cylinders |
4 |
| Valves per Cylinder |
4 |
| Total no. of Valves |
16 |
| Cylinder Layout |
In-line |
| Type |
4-cylinder In-line Twin Cam 16-valve with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) |
| Capacity |
1.8-litre |
| Piston Displacement |
1798 cc |
| Maximum Output (SAE net) |
98 hp at 5200 rpm |
| Maximum Torque (SAE net) |
142 Nm at 4000 rpm |
| Fuel |
Petrol |
| Fuel System |
Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Transmission |
| Type |
Electrically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Motor |
| Type |
Synchronous alternating current motor (Permanent magnet type) |
| Maximum Voltage |
650 V |
| Maximum Output |
80 hp |
| Maximum Torque |
207 Nm |
| Battery |
| Type |
Sealed Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) |
| Modules |
28 (201.6V) |
| Method of Connection |
Series |
| Capacity |
6.5 (2h) |
| Performance |
| Total Maximum Output |
134 hp |
| Suspension |
|
| Front |
McPherson struts (gas-filled shock absorbers with a stabilizer bar) |
| Rear |
Torsion beam (Trailing arms, gas-filled shock absorbers) |
| Brakes |
| Type |
Hydraulic with Electronic control and Regenerative |
| Front |
Ventilated Disc |
| Rear |
Solid Disc |
Toyota Prius Exterior
Toyota Prius Exterior Appearance
New Toyota Prius car has an exterior appearance that makes it stand apart even among a fleet of cars. The unique design of the projector headlamps generates curiosity while the 'bluish' Toyota logo separates it from other models of the company. Prius has a vertical arrangement for the fog lamps, which look exclusive along with the large air dam.
On the side, Toyota Prius has a projectile-like designed roof line that goes up from the front and smoothly comes down at the rear. The alloy wheels add to the stylish image of Prius along with the door handles and rear view mirrors.
Toyota Prius car has a very attractive rear profile with the LED tail lights, which create a unique effect. The dual colour boot lid adds to the character of Prius while the sloping rear windscreen with the wiper and washer presents a utilitarian image.
Toyota Prius Exterior Measurements
The exterior dimensions of new Prius car have been specified below.
| Exterior Measurements |
Toyota Prius |
| Overall Length |
4460 mm |
| Overall Width |
1745 mm |
| Overall Height |
1510 mm |
| Front Tread |
1525 mm |
| Rear Tread |
1520 mm |
| Wheelbase |
2700 mm |
| Minimum Turning Radius (tyre) |
5.2 metres |
| Kerb Weight |
1390 kg – 1395 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight |
1805 kg. |
Toyota Prius Interior
Toyota Prius Interior Appearance
The interior appearance of new Prius car is quite simple without much to speak about. However, the car has modern design and various inbuilt features, which deliver a sophisticated look to it. The entire cabin of Toyota Prius has a refreshing atmosphere, owing to the large windows, which allows fresh air to enter inside.
Toyota Prius Interior Comfort
Prius is one of the most comfortable cars as maximum attention is given to even minute detail to maximise the comfort of the occupant. New Toyota Prius cars come with automatic air-conditioning to enhance the comfort level inside the cabin. The AC is quite effective, even in very hot weather, which helps in maintaining adequate interior temperature. In addition to that, the car has a clean air filter and pollen removal mode that increases the comfort level inside the cabin by many folds.
Toyota Prius Interior Measurements
New Prius car has a decent interior space for 5 adult persons, two at the front (including the driver) and three at the rear. There is no shortage of headroom, legroom or shoulder room for any of the passengers in Prius. Moreover, a large boot in Toyota Prius car is quite handy while travelling out of town.
Toyota Prius Mileage, Average and Fuel Economy
The reason behind the development of the hybrid car, Toyota Prius, was to save the non-renewable resource petrol. New Prius car saves lot of fuel, owing to its 'Hybrid Synergy Drive'. This advanced system covers several aspects to achieve highest possible levels of fuel efficiency.
Engine of Prius uses several technologies to maximise fuel economy such as intake side Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i), electric water pump and cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. The Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery provides an optimum level of electricity in Toyota Prius cars. The use of a reduction gear in the transmission of Prius results in a light and compact yet high output motor.
An aerodynamic body, use of LED lights and a power control unit are some of the many additional features that help in enhancing the fuel economy in new Toyota Prius cars.
Toyota Prius On-road Drive
New Toyota Prius car has been designed and developed in a manner to provide excellent ride quality. The aerodynamic design of Toyota Prius gives the car an exceptional handling. The size of Prius gives it the benefit of better manoeuvrability in the city traffic conditions.
Inspite of being an environment-friendly car, Toyota Prius provides an excellent driving experience. Toyota Prius car does not lack in any aspect of performance be it power output or acceleration.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) helps in keeping new Toyota Prius cars stable. Moreover, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) along with assistance from the electronic power steering (EPS) ensure that Toyota Prius stays in control on any kind of surface.
Toyota Prius Power
Being a hybrid vehicle, new Prius car is powered by a petrol engine as well as an electric motor. While the maximum power output of the 1.8-litre petrol unit is 98 hp at 5200 rpm, the power of the motor is 80 hp. As a result, Toyota Prius car is capable of achieving a total maximum power output of 134 hp. Thus, Prius never feels underpowered be it driving in the city traffic with full air-conditioning or while overtaking on the highways.
Toyota Prius Acceleration and Pick Up
New Toyota Prius cars have a very decent acceleration and pick up record. Due to the petrol engine in Prius, the car can attain high acceleration. On the other hand, the motor used in this hybrid car has a maximum torque of 207 Nm, which also contributes towards the acceleration of this car.
Toyota Prius Safety and Security
Prius has a strong body structure with crumple zones at the front as well as rear. As a result, Toyota Prius car absorbs impact energy in case of an accident and hence, the occupants remain protected. New Prius cars come with projector type headlamps and vertical fog-lamps that perform very well in all kinds of weather. The bright LED tail-lights add to the safety of Prius as indication is provided to the traffic at the back.
Active headrests in the front seats of Toyota Prius help in providing added safety to the passengers during an impact. Prius comes with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags for the driver as well as front passenger. In addition to that, new Toyota Prius car has SRS airbags for side, curtain shield as well as driver's knee for enhanced safety inside the cabin.
Toyota Prius car comes with an advanced security system that is operated by a special electronic key. Further, the doors can be unlocked by opening any door when the key is near to the car. Still, this key has buttons to lock and unlock new Prius car.
Toyota Prius Comfort and Convenience
New Toyota Prius cars have been designed and developed while giving special importance to comfort and convenience. The steering wheel in Toyota Prius has buttons for controlling the audio system, air conditioner and Bluetooth connectivity. Subsequently, the driver has an enhanced control on the car without diverting attention from the road. This combines comfort and convenience quite effectively in Prius.
Prius can be started comfortably by just by pressing a 'power' button, upon depressing the brake pedal. The centre meter display comes with a touch tracer feature and conveniently displays the buttons integrated in the steering. Toyota Prius car has a 'head-up' display that projects information related to driving, like the speed of the car, on the lower portion of the windscreen. This display shows information, so that the driver can concentrate on the road ahead. A 5-inch screen of 'Eco-drive monitor' gives the driver the option of conveniently choosing one of 3 drive modes available in Toyota Prius.
Toyota Prius Wheels
Alloy wheels of 15 inches come as standard with Toyota Prius car. These wheels have a unique design that represents agility while driving as well as when standing still. The new Prius cars have tyre size of 195/65 R15, which helps it in maintaining proper grip on roads.
Toyota Prius Stereo and Accessories
New Prius cars come with a stereo that is neatly integrated in the dashboard. This stereo has a radio tuner and a CD player with MP3 and WMA audio formats compatibility. An auxiliary (AUX) input is also included in this stereo, so that portable audio players can be connected easily. This audio system includes 8 speakers spread across various locations in the car.
Toyota Prius car comes with several accessories that add to the style as well as utility factor of the car. As a part of the 'Superior Style' accessory package, new Toyota Prius cars come with side visors on the windows. Scuff plates that include a logo of Prius, are present at the driver and front passenger side and are lit up with a white light whenever the doors are opened. Moreover, the silver logo sticker on Prius, when viewed from different angles, appears to be purple blue in colour.
The 'Elegant Utility' package of accessories includes floor mats and a trunk mat with Prius embossed on them. A resistant to water luggage tray is also available for added convenience in carrying wet luggage. In addition to that, Toyota Prius has a fire-proof car cover, which is available as part of this accessory package.
Toyota Prius Dealers
Japanese car-maker Toyota has a wide spread network of more than 150 dealerships in India. Toyota Prius in India can be purchased from the authorised dealers of the company. Price quotations of Toyota Prius can also be collected from the dealers. The dealers of Toyota Prius in India are listed below:
| Dealership |
City |
| Galaxy Toyota |
Delhi |
| Madhuban Toyota |
Mumbai |
| Topsel Toyota |
Kolkata |
| Lanson Toyota |
Chennai |
| Mgf Toyota |
Gurgaon |
| Uttam Toyota |
Noida |
| Sharayu Toyota |
Pune |
| Infinium Toyota |
Ahmedabad |
| Radha Krishna Toyota |
Hyderabad |
| Nandi Toyota |
Bangalore |
Toyota Prius Company Quotes
Speaking during the launch event of Toyota Prius car, Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director (Marketing) at Toyota Kirloskar Motors, in 2010, had said, “Through the launch of the Prius, Toyota is keen to demonstrate its commitment to offer the latest eco-friendly automotive technology to its customers in India. Since becoming the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle in 1997, the Prius has received worldwide acclaim, the Prius today is the most successful hybrid in the world with cumulative sales of nearly 1.5 million. We will continue to popularize environmentally friendly vehicles in India to further our efforts to help save the environment.”
Toyota Prius Competitor Analysis
Prius is the only 'hybrid' vehicle that is currently on sale in India, and as a result, it is the only car in its segment. However, Toyota Prius in India faces a strong competition in its price range, especially from premium sedans like Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes Benz C Class.
Audi A4, the flagship model of the German car maker has several variants with multiple engine options. On the other hand, new Prius is offered in just two variants with the same petrol engine and electric motor. BMW 3 Series is a well renowned model of the luxury car manufacturer and it offers pleasurable driving experience. However, Toyota Prius car has a striking design as compared to the simple exterior appearance of 3 series. Mercedes Benz C Class carries the brand image associated with the German luxury vehicle manufacturer, which is its USP.
Toyota Prius LPG/CNG Version
Toyota Prius car is not available in LPG or CNG variant.
Toyota Prius Pros
New Prius car is beautifully designed from the outside and elegant from inside. Moreover, it has a powerful yet fuel efficient engine that is environment-friendly as well.
Toyota Prius Cons
High price is one of the biggest disadvantages of Toyota Prius car.
Toyota Prius Conclusion
Prius is an environment-friendly car that is capable of achieving an excellent fuel economy without compromising on performance. It is a totally new concept, which has received positive response in India. The car carries a higher price tag, which makes it suitable for the upper middle class.
