Toyota Prius is a fully hybrid vehicle from Japanese auto major that utilises electricity along with a conventional engine to run. Toyota has been among the most pragmatic auto manufacturers of the world who has always used a futuristic approach into its cars. Almost all the vehicles of the company feature some of the most brilliant technical ideologies to be seen in the world. One such fine example of engineering epitome is this fully hybrid electric car from the company. This green car was first launched in 2000 on global level and was soon distributed to all the major automotive markets of the world including India. This hybrid car has been present in the domestic auto market for quite a sufficient time now and has become a favourable choice for the environmental-friendly buyers of the nation.
This eco-friendly car is tapped under the hood with a robust 1.8-litre 2ZR-FXE type 4-cylinder in-line Twin Camshaft 16-valve DOHC petrol engine with VVT-i technology. This engine has a displacement of 1798 cc and is able to churn a power output of 98 bhp with a peak torque of 142 Nm. This engine is melded with a powerful 650V Synchronous Alternating Current Motor, which can produce a power output of 80 bhp with a maximum torque of 207 Nm. This hybrid combination is mated to an Electrically Controlled Continuously Variable automatic transmission, which sends all the energy to the front wheels. Interestingly, the total power output of this engine combination comes out to be a commendable 155 bhp. This combination utilises the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive Technology to produce efficient mileage and on-road performance.
Toyota Prius is a stunning looking car, which has a sleek front grille mounted with the company's iconic badge. The car was earlier designed to be a full-packed sedan but was later configured as a hatchback. The headlight and taillight cluster both use high-power LEDs along with normal lights for better daytime running. Fine chrome finishing has been provided at the front, B and C-pillar of the car and the ORVMs integrated with turn indicators are body-coloured. The back of the car features an aggressive design and a wide boot lid, which is mounted with the company’s logo.
The interiors are tastefully designed to make the car look more contemporary and attract more and more people. Fine-quality fabric upholstery perfectly matches with the matte black finishing of the dashboard. The instrument cluster is equipped with snazzy dials and an infotainment panel through which features of multimedia and navigation can be performed. There is ample legroom and shoulder space in the car and safety features of Electronically Controlled Brake System, airbags, Supplemental Restraint System and crash safety body are also present in the vehicle.
Expert review on Toyota Prius has been unanimous that depicts the brilliance of company's think tanks. This car has been extolled globally and accorded with numerous grants for being an efficient eco-friendly vehicle. Toyota Prius price in India is in the bracket of Rs. 36.60 lakh – Rs. 38.30 lakh, which is not that hefty if the specification of the car is kept in mind.
