Toyota first introduced the world to the Prius in 1997, and serious strides of improvement have been made since. Although the Prius was introduced to the world in 1997, it did not debut in the United States until 2001.
Today, the Prius is sold in more than 40 countries and is touted as the most fuel efficient vehicle sold by the United States EPA.
Toyota wanted a progressive name for its new hybrid car so they chose Prius, which in Latin means [to go] before. Their thought was that the Prius was the leader for the cars to come. The car experienced average success in Japan and in 1999, Toyota decided enough research had been done on the Japanese version to release the Prius in the US.
In 2004 the Prius was completely redesigned as a mid-size liftback, sized between the Corolla and the Camry, with redistributed mechanical and interior space significantly increasing rear-seat legroom and luggage room. The 2004 Prius is even more environmentally friendly than the 2001 model.
The 2010 Toyota Prius hybrid is back with a new look inside and out, and even better fuel efficiency compared to the 2009 Toyota Prius. The 1.8L four-cylinder gas engine works with the electric motor thanks to Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, which now achieves 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway.
Slightly restyled with new headlights, the 2012 Toyota Prius is a mid-size five-door hybrid hatchback powered by a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 98 hp/105 lb-ft of torque and an AC synchronous motor that yields 80 hp/153 lb.-ft of torque. An electronically controlled continuously variable transmission paired with FWD enables an EPA estimated 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. Additional factors that contribute to superior fuel economy are the aerodynamic design and "Eco" driving mode. Features consist of 17-inch alloy wheels, power moonroof, air conditioning equipped with pollen/dust filtration, voice-activated touch-screen DVD/navigation system, 4-disc CD changer, remote keyless entry with push button start and hands-free phone capability. Safety includes enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, lane keep assist, front airbags, driver's knee airbag, hill start assist control and engine immobilizer. The Prius is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
No comments:
Post a Comment