Toyota unveils new 4th-gen Prius at Auto Expo

Toyota has unveiled the new edition of the Prius at the ongoing 2016 Auto Expo. The fourth-generation Prius is all-new and is the first model to be developed on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform – a modular set of components designed to offer quicker, cost-efficient development of new front and rear-wheel-drive models.

The Japanese carmaker claims improved handling characteristics for models to be built on this platform, thanks to a lower-mounted powertrain, resulting in a lower centre of gravity. The Prius borrows styling cues from the fuel-celled Mirai, with the front getting a more dramatic boomerang-like headlights and complex surfacing on the bumper. The blacked-out C-pillar creates a ‘floating-roof effect, with the rear featuring tall LED tail-lights. A spoiler has been incorporated into the hatchback's glass.

The longer front and rear overhangs result in an increase in overall length of the car. An updated version of the current 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine powers the new Prius, in combination with a more compact nickel-metal battery-powered electric motor.

The Prius comes with three driving modes; Eco, Power, Normal, regenerative braking system, ABS, EBD and brake assist, front power seats and LED headlamps with DRLs.

Speaking at the unveil, Naomi Ishii, managing director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, outlined the carmaker’s ambitious plan to slash carbon dioxide emissions by 90 percent worldwide from new vehicles by 2050 as compared to 2010. "India being a crucial market for us, we believe there is more to the market beyond just the numbers. We want to address other critical issues associated with energy, environment and safety with our hybrid technology. Considering the rising oil imports, road safety and increased pollution, we believe that environment-friendly vehicles will go a long way to remedy this,” Ishii added.

The introduction of the Prius is significant since the theme of the 2016 Auto Expo is electric and hybrid cars. The hybrid theme will be further highlighted by the presence of the TS040 hybrid Le Mans race car. The 1,000bhp monster derives half its power from electricity, and signifies three decades of Toyota’s evolution at Le Mans.

Also on the company's stand is the new Toyota Innova in a more stylish, powerful and luxurious avatar. A big step-up from the current car, the new Innova will hit the Indian markets in the second half of 2016.