2016 Toyota Prius Drops Cover, Boasts Improved
Although our crafty spy photographers had already caught the car testing without disguise,
the fourth-generation 2016 Toyota Prius finally makes its official
debut in Las Vegas. Along with a drastically redesigned exterior, the
new generation of the world’s most popular hybrid packs updated
technology, better efficiency, and an improved chassis.
At this
point, the powertrain details are still a mystery, but extensive
revisions have resulted in a more efficient hybrid drivetrain. Toyota
pegs the improvements at a ten percent increase in efficiency, which
means we can estimate a 55-mpg combined rating. Toyota plans on offering
an even more fuel-efficient Eco model later in the model's run, which
could have an upgraded battery pack. A separate plug-in hybrid model
will come at a later date. Other reports suggest that the new Prius will
use lighter, more energy-dense lithium-ion batteries instead of the
current car's nickel-metal hydride cells.
The 2016 Toyota Prius is a landmark vehicle for Toyota, as it is the first to incorporate the Japanese manufacturer’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform.
Similar to Volkswagen’s highly successful MQB platform, TNGA aims to
streamline production costs by sharing chassis and powertrain components
across Toyota’s model lineup.
At this
point, the powertrain details are still a mystery, but extensive
revisions have resulted in a more efficient hybrid drivetrain. Toyota
pegs the improvements at a ten percent increase in efficiency, which
means we can estimate a 55-mpg combined rating. Toyota plans on offering
an even more fuel-efficient Eco model later in the model's run, which
could have an upgraded battery pack. A separate plug-in hybrid model
will come at a later date. Other reports suggest that the new Prius will
use lighter, more energy-dense lithium-ion batteries instead of the
current car's nickel-metal hydride cells.
