Toyota Prius


Toyota Prius  is powered by a petrol engine and an electric motor. In India, the company has launched the car with two interior trim options. These are Toyota Prius Z3 and Toyota Prius Z4. The Toyota Prius Z3 comes with fabric seat material and without seat heater while the Toyota Prius Z4 is equipped with leather seat material and seat heater.

Toyota Prius is loaded with 1.8 litre 2ZR-FXE petrol engine with a displacement of 1798cc. The engine also houses 4 cylinder, In line Twin Cam, 16 valve with VVT-i. The 1.8L engine is powerful enough to pump 73 kw of peak power at 5,200 rpm and churns 142 Nm of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm.

Apart from this strong and powerful powertrain, Toyota Prius  is fitted with an 650 V electric motor which is permanent magnet type. The electric motor can produce 60 kw of maximum power and 207 Nm of peak torque figures. Whereas the battery type is Sealed Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal hydride). The capacity of the battery is Ah 6.5 (2h). The combined maximum power output from both engine and motor is 100 kw. To ensure optimum use of petrol engine and electric motor, the company has used its much popular Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The technology is comprised of petrol engine and electric motor. This allows the driver to choose from three driving modes. The technology promises amazing fuel economy, the lowest exhaust emissions, silky-smooth performance and fastest acceleration.

The third generation Toyota Prius  is available with three driving modes which include Power mode, Eco mode and Electric Vehicle mode. Electric Vehicle mode can be opt on battery power alone at low speed while Eco mode is for greatest fuel economy.

The exterior and interior of Toyota Prius  is stunning and deserves praise. The exterior design is amongst the lowest in the world that is 0.25 Cd. The interior is also funky and luxurious. The front cabin is provided with most advanced high-tech systems comprised of classy audio system, multifunctional steering wheel and class leading comfort.

Toyota Prius Petrol Models

  • Toyota Prius Z5
    This is the highly acclaimed sedan model in the world and it comes with the combination of both petrol engine and also an electric motor. Its electric motor is a Synchronous alternating current motor (permanent magnet type), which has the ability to make 80bhp of maximum power, while yielding a maximum torque of 207Nm. This electric motor will assist the 1.8-litre DOHC with VVT-i based petrol engine, which has the displacing capacity of about 1798cc. This engine comes with electronic fuel injection fuel supply system, which will improve the engine's power and its fuel efficiency. Its price is a little expensive but considering its specifications, it is one of the best sedan you can buy.
  • Toyota Prius Z6
    This is this top end model in Toyota Prius series and it comes at an expensive price of Rs. 31.42 lakh (ex showroom New Delhi). This car represents the company's innovations in the auto segment. This is a hybrid sedan that comes with both electric as well as a petrol engine. Its petrol engine is a 1.8-litre, 16 valve, DOHC based petrol mill that has the ability to displace at 1798cc. This powerful petrol engine can produce a maximum power of about 97.85bhp at 5200rpm, while generating a maximum torque output of about 142Nm at 4000rpm. This petrol engine is coupled with an electrically controlled continuously variable transmission gearbox that helps this premium sedan to return 21 Kmpl of impressive mileage.

    Toyota Prius Mileage

    Toyota Prius TachoMeter
    Toyota Prius  hybrid is equipped with a 1.8 L petrol engine and a 650 electric motor. The combined power output of both the powerhouses is 100 kw. The 1.8L 2ZR-FXE petrol engine produces 73 kw of maximum power at 5,200 rpm and 142 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. While the electric motor generates a peak power of 60 kw and 207 Nm of peak torque. The company has added its own developed Hybrid Synergy Drive technology which allow the driver to choose from three driving mode available in Toyota Prius . Hybrid Synergy Drive technology is there to enhance fuel efficiency, power, torque and acceleration along with less carbon emission. When used on electric mode or combined mode of petrol and motor, the fuel efficiency is increased up to 35 per cent.

    Power of Toyota Prius

    Toyota Prius Photos
    The luxurious hybrid car, Toyota Prius , is powered by a 1.8 litre 2ZR-FXE petrol engine with a displacement of 1798cc and the engine type is 4 cylinder, In line Twin Cam, 16 valve with VVT-i. The powertrain of the Toyota Prius  pumps out a peak power of 73 kw at 5,200 rpm and produces maximum torque of 142 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The VVT-i technology is there for higher power, torque, acceleration and fuel efficiency by controlling the air intake and exhaust emission. The technology is also supported by Atkinson cycle and a cooled EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system and electric water pump. An electric motor of 650V is also fitted which generates 60 kw of peak power and 207 Nm of peak torque. The battery type is Sealed Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal hydride) whereas the capacity of the battery is Ah 6.5 (2h). You can drive Toyota Prius  in three different modes which include Power mode, Eco mode and Electric Vehicle mode. When you are in Eco mode, the combined power output will be 100 kw. Transmission will be automatic. The Hybrid Synergy Drive technology controls both engine and motor.

    Acceleration & Pick-Up

    Toyota Prius Gear
    Toyota Prius  comes loaded with a 1.8 L petrol engine and an electric motor. The petrol engine type is 4 cylinder, In line Twin Cam, 16 valve with VVT-i with 1798cc displacement. The powerful engine is capable of producing a maximum power of 73 kw at 5,200 rpm and 142 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. On the other hand, electric motor generates 60kw maximum output and 207 Nm of maximum torque. And the combined power output is 100 kw. Both the motors are handled by Hybrid Synergy Drive technology which promises more power, torque and acceleration with greater fuel efficiency. The VVT-i technology is there to ensure optimum fuel economy and less carbon emission. Light weight body of Toyota Prius  also help to enhance fuel economy. In addition to this, the engine of the Prius automatically turned off when it is stopped in traffic.

    Toyota Prius Exteriors

    Toyota Prius Exterior
    Toyota is succeeded to give Toyota Prius  a sporty and aggressive stance. A number of changes has been done to design the third generation Toyota Prius. The front face of the car is stunning with sleek upper grille and snub-nose. The upper grille houses the Toyota logo at the top of the point. Toyota Prius  is slightly larger but weight is reduced for better fuel economy. The front headlight cluster comes in a diamond-cut shape which houses projector beam halogen type headlamps with auto-off feature.

    The lower grille are in black and the slot is rectangular. The vertical stacked fog light slot, also sports turn indicator, is separated from the lower grille to give distinctive design. Front side skirt is also added for the sake of sporty appearance. The electronically powered outside rear view mirrors are in body shade with turn indicator lamps. Front and rear bumper along with door handles come in body colour. In view to add class and beauty, side skirts are provided in semi-chrome finish. The front snub-nose hood cleverly flows into the front windshield, and goes to a flowing roofline which is slim and lower-slung.

    The rear side of the Toyota Prius , balance the sporty and aggressive look as well. The LED tail light cluster is also in vertical shape comprising brake light, reverse light and turn indicator. The rear hatch is wide and impressive in terms of art work. Aerodynamic rear deck spoiler is added at the top of the hatch. Toyota logo comes just at the middle of the hatch. The sleek roof sports mounted antenna at rear side. The front and rear wipers are Washer-linked variable intermittent wipers and intermittent rear window wiper respectively. Toyota Prius  has 15 inch five spoke alloy wheels which enhance the beauty of the car.

    Toyota Prius Interior

    Toyota Prius Interior
    Hold your breath before the very first entry in the luxury car, Toyota Prius , as you might keep gazing at the interiors. The front cabin of the sexy baby has stuff more than you thought of. The cabin is flooded with a number of high-tech user friendly and class-leading features. Have a look at the steering wheel and you will know the richness of the interior. The five spoke electronically powered tilt/telescopic adjustable steering wheel has mounted audio, climate and Multi-Information Display controls.

    The dashboard has centrally positioned advanced audio system comprised of radio tuner, CD player and changer, audio system remote control and 8 speakers. An audio mini-jack is also added which allows to fix a portable music player to be enjoyed with vehicles' speakers. Right below the audio system, the AC system tools are fitted. It is also equipped with pollen removal mode and clean air filter. The compact AC system is quick responding. The driver is blessed with lower windshield glass which used to show head-up display. The display shows a great number of driver information including vehicle speed and hybrid system indicator.

    Interior Comfort

    Comfort level is optimum inside the Toyota Prius  as from the driver seat to trunk ample room is ensured by the designers of the company. Let's start from driver seat. The driver seat has got enough headroom and legroom. It also can be managed a little bit tilt/telescopic powered steering wheel. A good storage space for front passenger is given at the dashboard in the form of upper box and glove box. Front cup holders and storage space under the central console (enough to store 10 Cds). Cup holders for rear seats are also provided. Front setbacks are made slim in view to provide good knee room area for rear passenger. The boot area is capable of keeping 3sets of golf bags, its more spacious now in Toyota Prius.

    Interior Measurements

    Ample headroom and legroom is the best thing which is to be mentioned here. Rear seats are foldable and can be used for different load and passenger option. Armrest and cup holder is there for all passenger. Front seat backs are designed in slim so as to provide ample knee room for rear passenger.

    Toyota Prius Engine and Performance

    As discussed in some of the above mentioned headings, the Toyota Prius  is powered by 1798cc, 4 cylinder, In line Twin Cam 16 valves with VVT-i. The 1.8 L petrol engine belts out 73 kw of peak power at 5,200 rpm and maximum torque of 142 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Apart from VVT-i, there are other innovative technologies such as Atkinson cycle, a cooled EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system and electric water pump which ensure higher fuel efficiency along with greater power, torque and acceleration.

    The other power plant of Toyota Prius  is electric motor that is of 650 V and is capable of generating maximum power of 60 kw and 207 Nm of maximum torque. This permanent magnet type motor gets power from Nickel-Metal Hydride battery. Apart from driving your smart vehicle on power and electric motor mode, you have the option to use both of them at a time. This combination can generate maximum power of 100 kw. The overall system is operated and handled by Toyota's innovative Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The system integrates the advantages of electric motor and petrol engine which results in higher fuel efficiency, higher power, torque and acceleration figures along with lesser carbon emission and quietness.

    Stereo & Accessories in Toyota Prius

    Toyota Prius Accessories
    Toyota Prius  comes fitted with funky audio system which is sure to win your hearts. It is blessed with radio tuner and CD player with changer. The audio system support 8 speakers. Audio controls are also provided on steering wheel. An audio mini-jack is also added which allows to fix a portable music player to be enjoyed with vehicles' speakers. Right below the audio system, the AC system tools are fitted. It is also equipped with pollen removal mode and clean air filter. The compact AC system is quick responding.

    Wheels

    Toyota Prius Wheels
    Toyota Prius  has got 15 inch five spoke alloy wheels which looks funky on this luxury car. The tyre specification is 195/65 R 15. Whereas the wheelbase is 2700mm that ensure ample interior space.

    Braking & Handling

    Toyota Prius DashBoard
    The Toyota Prius  is blessed with advanced braking system including front ventilated disc brake and rear solid disc. The brake type is hydraulic with electronic control and regenerative. The regenerative brake system works with Electronically Controlled Brake system to provide the optimum braking force relative to brake pedal operation. This mill also stopped completely with highly efficient energy regeneration.

    Toyota Prius  also got latest shock absorbers at both the end which adds to the comfort of the occupants. The front fork is Macpherson Strut which is gas filled with a stabilizer bar and the rear fork is Torison beam type, also gas filled.

    Handling & Safety

    Toyota Prius Safety
    The Japanese company has done enough to provide safety of driver and passengers. Toyota Prius  is equipped with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) drive airbags, front passenger airbags, side airbags, driver knee airbags, side airbag and curtain shield airbags. For the rear collision, active headrest of front seats reduce impact on neck and back of the front occupants. Also, Toyota Prius  packed with crash safety body which reduces the impact of collision for car passengers and pedestrians.
    This is a premium sedan of a different kind as it provides a combination of a petrol engine and a electric motor that provides power to it wheels. Yes, the Toyota Prius is a name that is famous for its hybrid technology so much so that it recently crossed a total worldwide sales figure of 3 million vehicles exhibiting its popularity in the international market. What is its relevance in the Indian market one would ask? Well, the Prius does feature in Toyota’s current model line up but somehow hasn’t been able to catch the imagination of Indians due to its ‘hybrid ’tag and a premium price (Rs 31,42,801 ex-showroom Delhi) which has probably kept it at bay. Therefore to perceive the glitz and glamour of this unusual machine, we took the Prius on an excursion to the state of Rajasthan. In profile the Prius makes an instant impression of being spectacular and futuristic. Its colour combination of white and black inserts further bring out the brilliance of the product, which is in fact a CBU (Completely Built Unit) being imported by Toyota Kirloskar Motors for the Indian consumers which in a way justifies the steep price. Head on, distinctive head lamps, a sculpted bonnet and twin radiator grilles with a Toyota logo placed right in between featuring a blue outline indicate towards this vehicle being a hybrid. Further black inserts in the form of slats found within the lower part of the front bumper help in extending its appeal, which is enhanced by additional pair of fog lamps. The provision of vertical indicators make the front end very eye catching while the sides feature a ‘hybrid’ badge along with plastic hub caps for the wheels. The most interesting aspect about this hybrid is its rear end, which features a sloping boot lid with a wedged shaped tail gate. Vertical tail lamps and a rear spoiler with a neatly placed brake light contribute to a distinctive rear. This was evident from the fact that while we undertook this trip, we had quite a number of people coming up and asking whether this was a new launch by Toyota. Its sheer looks does make the Prius stand out both within the city as well as the highway.
    Its game on when one moves to the cabin especially due to its futuristic appeal. The front dash features a digital instrument cluster placed at the far end that acts as an information display. It shows graphical representations of the electric motor charging, while the vehicle is in motion plus the regular stuff like a speedometer, fuel gauge meter, volume & channel display along with climate control.
     Smaller in size, the steering wheel provides a good feel with steering mounted controls. An extended centre console forms the basis for a JBL audio CD player with Bluetooth connectivity. With an in-built monitor that serves as reverse camera, the entertainment system also caters to facilities such as a USB port and an audio jack for i-Pod connectivity. The lower panel provides buttons for climate control, below which are three modes (Power, Eco, EV) used while driving with an electronic shift lever. The gear shift lever in specific would remind one of a joy stick that is commonly used in gaming console. While for storage, there is a double din glove box placed right in front of the co-passenger along cup holders which can be found between the front and the rear row. Level of comfort in the Prius is commendable given that we drove it more than 600kms during its stint with us. There is ample of head, shoulder and leg room in front as well as the rear. The under thigh support is also fairly decent which indicates that those long drives are going to be fairly relaxing rather than being taxing. In India, we do not have a concept of seat warmers but since it’s there in the Prius one’s winter ride is going to be really comforting. As for safety, it comes fitted with front, side and knee airbags while Active Headrests, EPS (Electric Power Steering) & VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) are a part of its features list. As mentioned just a short while ago, the Prius provides both a 1.8 litre 2ZR-FXE petrol engine plus an electric motor, which along with a Nickel-Metal Hydride battery pack ensures an impressive fuel economy for this sedan. This is evident from the fact that it returned a figure of 20kmpl with a combined driving of city as well as the highway. Therefore the 1798cc, 4 cylinder in-line Twin Cam 16-Valve DOHC petrol engine with VVT-i technology produces a maximum power output of 98bhp along with 142Nm of torque. In simplistic terms, the engine along with its Electrically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission on board does well to provide a comfortable drive within the city as well as the highway. Meanwhile the electric motor which kicks in on and off produces 650 volts of power. Well this was the most interesting part of the entire exercise unlike conventional petrol sedans, the Prius is very silent. Just press the start button and its ready to move, there is not even a single squeak that can be heard from its 1.8 litre power plant. When in motion, the sedan caters to three modes of driving – Power, Economy and Electric. The word ‘Power’ suggests that the engine is going to be far more responsive than other two modes and is ideally meant for overtaking. The Economy mode on the other hand is well suited to better fuel efficiency while the Electric mode caters to 650 Volts of power that ensures a smooth gradual drive. Its low ground clearance is a bit of an issue especially towards the front where in the bumper tends to touch on big speed breakers. The ride quality matches international standards, however given our Indian road conditions we were well comforted at all times, even while going over potholes and broken roads. Due to its sheer driving dynamics, one does not feel fatigued even on those long distances as handling is brilliant on the Prius. One feels that you are always in control due to the technology this special sedan has to offer. The brakes on this machine work well to keep it in control while plying on our roads. n recent past, the Indian automobile space has seen a couple of Hybrids like the Honda Civic and now the Toyota Prius but somehow the concept of owning one has never actually clicked here in India. This is due to its exclusive price which in today’s context matches to that of premium brands such as Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class. Therefore considering that the Prius is more environment friendly and offers technological innovations at its best, one should actually consider it if he or she has that kind of money. In looks, comfort and sheer driving dynamics the Toyota Prius is exceptionally brilliant.


     

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