The fourth-generation Toyota Prius has now officially arrived in South Africa, priced at R427 200 (read our first drive of this new hybrid in the July issue of CAR magazine).
The new hybrid is the first Toyota to run on the Japanese brand’s new global platform. Toyota says this lends the car a lower centre of gravity compared to the outgoing model.
The body, meanwhile, is some 60% more rigid than before thanks to the use of plenty of high-strength steel and additional reinforcement to the centre pillars’ lower structure.
The overall height has been reduced by 15 mm to 1 490 mm. The peak of the roof has been moved forward by 170 mm, and the belt line has been dropped and angled forward and lower. The new model retains the 2 700 mm wheelbase, although it is 60 mm longer overall at 4 540 mm. It is also 15 mm wider at 1 760 mm.
As in the outgoing model, the hybrid system features a 1,8-litre VVT-i Atkinson cycle petrol engine. However, Toyota says this unit has been “completely re-engineered” to deliver better fuel economy.
The engine’s maximum output of 72 kW is delivered at 5 200 r/min, with peak torque of 142 N.m on tap at 3 600 r/min. Meanwhile, the two motor-generators are all-new and are smaller and lighter than before, while the nickel-metal hydride battery is also more compact, and now located entirely beneath the rear seats.
The electric-drive motor delivers 53 kW and 163 N.m. The total hybrid system’s output stands at 90 kW, which is enough for the Prius to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 10,6 seconds. And fuel economy? Well, Toyota claims a combined fuel of just 3,7 L/100 km.
Meanwhile, standard safety equipment includes a rear-view camera and seven airbags. Other noteworthy standard features include dual multi-information display screens, seat heaters up front, and a full-colour head-up display.
And, thanks to a more compact hybrid system and a new double wishbone rear suspension setup, Toyota says boot space is not compromised. In fact, with the cargo floor set 110 mm lower than before, capacity sits at a claimed 502 dm3 (when a spare wheel is carried).
The Toyota Prius is covered by a five-year/90 000 km service plan and a three-year/100 000 km warranty, with the hybrid battery enjoying an eight-year/195 000 km warranty.
