Toyota Gives New Prius Vegas Sendup
In a scene worthy of a star-studded show on the Strip, Toyota unveiled the all-new, fourth-generation Prius hybrid during a spectacular evening production in Las Vegas. More than 350 Toyota guests and journalists watched the 2016 Prius elevate into the Las Vegas night sky. After almost twenty years of shaping the world view on alternative energy vehicles, Prius is setting out to change the world again.
“Prius set the global benchmark for hybrids, but now is breaking its own boundaries with more engaging style and fun-to-drive dynamics,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “What was once a rational purchase that for many customers focused on fuel economy, is now so much more. This Prius will invite new drivers into the category by delivering an impressive look and feel, built on the foundation of safety and eco-consciousness that define the vehicle’s heritage.”
Slightly bigger inside and outside, the 2016 Prius has a smaller, lighter hybrid system with higher-energy density batteries, and a gasoline engine/generator touting ground-breaking thermal efficiency. Taken together, Toyota claims the new Prius will deliver a significant advancement in fuel economy over the existing model of at least 10%. Given that statement, the new Prius is expected to have a City fuel economy rating of about 55 MPG, with an even stingier ECO model approaching the 60 MPG mark. The ECO model will be the most fuel efficient vehicle you can buy without a plug. The new Prius will begin arriving in dealerships early next year.