JULY 12 - 18 | 2019
Prius still leading light in Toyota power play
By DEREK OGDEN Toyota Australia vice-president sales and marketing Sean Hanley says the Prius hatch has long been the standard-bearer for Toyota's advanced petrol / electric hybrid technology and this latest styling and technology update would add to its appeal. "Its [Prius] strength in the marketplace is testament to the proven benefits of the Toyota hybrid system we have rolled out across more models, including Camry and Corolla hatch, and will later this year be offered in RAV4 and Corolla sedan as well," he said. Prius retains its two-model line-up, with the standard version selling for $36,590, plus
on-road costs, and the premium i-Tech Prius costing $44,050. The standard model was on test. STYLING If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Honda should accept it with alacrity as the MY19 Prius is a dead ringer for the Civic hatch, especially around the rear end. A split window and full-width spoiler, plus new LED lights taking their cue from the shape of the new slimline headlamps, present a more horizontal look emphasising the car's width and low centre of gravity. Up front, a revised lower air intake accentuates the sharper, sleeker lines of the car,
while a dynamic flowing appearance is further enhanced by a 35 mm increase in overall length. Unusually, the base Prius rolls on 15-inch alloy wheels with a 10-spoke aerodynamic silver cover, while the Prius i-Tech is more traditional with 17-inch five-spoke alloys in a new titanium-like paint and black finish. INTERIOR Inside the cabin is a similar story, with the upgraded Prius featuring new black cloth upholstery, while the i-Tech variant retains its premium leather-accented seats.
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THINK what you will about Toyota, when it comes to electric vehicles, the Japanese automotive giant has stuck to its guns. It’s been petrol / electric hybrid all the way. Its Prius hatchback, in 2001, was the first hybrid to make a real impression on the automobile market in Australia and, indeed, around the world. The ubiquitous Prius taxis speak to this. And, it seems, there’s no letting up, with the fourth generation of the pioneering Toyota hybrid, casting off the somewhat frumpy styling of the original model, taking on a sleeker, coupe-like shape, featuring new front and rear treatments, and sharper headlamps and rear lights.
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