(September 9, 2015) LAS VEGAS — The Toyota Prius, the vehicle that pioneered the hybrid drivetrain, was reborn here Tuesday. The all-new, fourth-generation starred in a spectacular evening production of music, food and special effects to celebrate an industry icon in a way that was anything but expected.

Toyota says that after almost 20 years of shaping the world view on alternative energy vehicles, and more than 3.5 million global sales, Prius is setting out to change the world again.

Toyota did not release powertrain details of the redesigned and re-engineered Prius — those will probably be revealed ahead of the Tokyo Motor Show in October — but Toyota promised the 2016 version will be lighter and 10 percent more fuel efficient that the current vehicle. And Toyota says, it will be fun to drive.



Toyota says today’s customers want all the traditional benefits of a hybrid, but don’t want to compromise on looks and performance.  So Toyota upgraded the Prius inside and out to deliver the complete package — emotional styling, smarter technology and impressive MPG, in a vehicle that’s more fun to drive than ever.
 
“Prius set the global benchmark for hybrids, but now is breaking its own boundaries with more engaging style and fun-to-drive dynamics,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division.  “What was once a rational purchase that for many customers focused on fuel economy, is now so much more.  This Prius will invite new drivers into the category by delivering an impressive look and feel, built on the foundation of safety and eco-consciousness that define the vehicle’s heritage.”
 
The Prius’ exterior has been completely reimagined. From the side, it is longer and sleeker with the overall outline evoking an athletic shape.  Inspired by a runner in the starting blocks, the sporty design conveys a feeling of forward motion.

The hood is lower and the distinctive roof peak has been moved forward. Bold character lines run along the side from the front fenders – one just above the sill that sweeps up towards the rear fender, while the upper crease morphs into the rear spoiler, which has been lowered.

The use of new standard LED headlamps minimizes the Prius’ front fascia and, at the same time, provides an arresting lighting display which helps define the vehicle’s character. The unique and striking rear combination lamps express the distinctive lines of the Prius from the rear spoiler to the trailing edges of the sides.

The Prius’ new, premium interior adopts advanced technology complemented by features that are functional, fun and have high visual impact. The wrap-around dash design, form-hugging seats, ease of controls and improved visibility put the driver in complete control.

Once inside, drivers will feel immediately comfortable and impressed by styling cues that are unique in the industry.  The wide instrument panel, seamlessly designed to be both functional and beautiful, gives a sense of comfort and spaciousness.  Available premium white ornamentation in the lower sections of the cabin is reminiscent of fine bone china.
 
The 2016 Prius is the first global vehicle to implement Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA).  TNGA aims to greatly improve core vehicle performance and enhance product appeal through an integrated development program for powertrain components and vehicle platforms. Development of vehicles is being grouped to promote strategic sharing of components with the goal of improving resource efficiency by better than twenty percent. Resources will be directed into developing advanced technologies, and most importantly even further strengthening product appeal.
 
Engineered from the ground up, the new Prius is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and 0.8 inches lower than the model it replaces, providing a planted on-road presence while delivering more occupant and cargo room.

Hallmarks of TNGA, a lower center of gravity and a more responsive suspension package, dial up the driving excitement. In fact, the height of the Prius’ front badge is exactly the same as that of Scion’s FR-S sports car — a remarkable achievement in height and mass reduction.

The all-new rear double wishbone suspension produces a better connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions.  A more rigid body helps improve responsiveness while cornering. From winding mountain roads to the wide boulevards downtown, the new Prius stays connected to the road, without sacrificing ride quality and occupant comfort.