Toyota India is all set to launch the Prius hybrid in India in January next year. In its fourth generation now, the Prius was showcased at the 2016 Delhi auto expo. Expected to be introduced this year the Prius is reported to make its comeback early next year with an expected pricing of around Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom).
Toyota to launch the Prius in January 2017
The second generation of the Prius was launched in India in 2010 but failed to make any impression on the Indian car market. After the Camry hybrid making a name for itself in India, Toyota hopes that the Prius may just achieve some decent success.
The current generation Prius is based on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) modular platform. This platform has a lower centre of gravity and an increased structural rigidity, thus improving ride and handling of the hybrid. The new Prius measures 60mm longer, 15mm wider and 20mm lower than the older car.
The interiors of this new car are futuristic as well, with things like a digital speedometer, and touchscreen infotainment system compatible withApple Car Play, Android Auto and MirrorLink function. Dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, cruise control and automatic climate control, airbags, an electronic stability programme with emergency braking all comes as standard in the Prius.
The Prius is powered by a 1.8-litre four cylinder petrol engine that has been paired with an AC synchronous motor. While the setup is same as before, the engine has been tuned for better efficiency. It features improved batteries with higher energy density; smaller electric motors, with higher power density than the previous Prius motors; and the gasoline engine features a 40 per cent more thermal efficiency. The fuel economy has improved on average by about 10 per cent over the previous generation as Toyota expects the Prius to average more than 40kmpl. The new generation Prius will be imported as a CBU with no direct rival in India as yet.
