2016 Toyota Prius finally unveiled in Las Vegas
Toyota has finally unveiled its fourth-generation hybrid car Prius on the evening of Sept. 9 during its event in Las Vegas.
The Japanese firm has become one of the top makers of hybrid cars and the first to enter the market with the launching of its first Prius in 1997. On Tuesday, Toyota revealed the 2016 Toyota Prius that is now 10 percent better in terms of fuel-saving features, according to Ars Technica.
The fourth-generation Toyota Prius has lighter hybrid components and a more efficient internal combustion engine. In addition, it has more powerful batteries, which reportedly make the Prius the number 1 non plug-in hybrid car when it is released early next year. The company will also release an Eco version of the Prius, but the details are still unavailable, the report details.
The Japanese carmaker says the 2016 Prius is fun to drive because of the lowered center of gravity, stiffer chassis, and rear double wishbone suspension.
In terms of appearance, the latest Prius is an improvement from its predecessor. Compared to the previous model, the fourth-generation Prius is longer by 16 millimeters, wider by 15 millimeters, and lower by 20 millimeters. The new car's tight and accurate steering and its sporty suspension are not typically seen in a hybrid vehicle, IOL reports.
The changes made in the drivetrain served to bring down the Prius' size and weight, but left its performance untouched. Although it is not faster than the previous model, it is lighter and more fuel efficient.
When it comes to the interior design, the new Prius has an edgy appearance. It has a wide instrument panel, wherein the display zone is clearly separated from the control zone. The bottom part of the cabin has a white finishing. Toyota says this was done to give the impression of fine bone china, the report relays.
Toyota will release the 2016 Prius in Japan by the end of the year. The new hybrid car will also be rolled out worldwide next year.