This is the all-new Toyota Prius which has broken cover internationally ahead of local launch in February next year.
Aside from the new looks, as always with the petrol-hybrid Toyota Prius it’s the technology which takes centre stage.
This time around changes for the 1.8-litre VVT-I petrol engine (a dual cooling system, low-viscosity oil, new pistons and intake ports) making it the world’s most thermal efficient petrol engine.
Underneath, all-new Prius sits on Toyota’s new global architecture platform (TNGA) which delivers a lower centre of gravity and torsional rigidity 60 per-cent better than the current generation.
That platform also enabled Toyota engineers to store the hybrid battery under the rear seat, relocate the regular 12V battery to the engine bay and adopt space-efficient double wishbone rear suspension which in-turn caters for a much-larger 502-litre cargo area.
Hybrid and driveline components are smaller and lighter.
Inside is a totally new look with a contemporary slim-line dashboard and new seats being immediately obvious.
Toyota Australia will reveal local specifications and prices closer to launch.
