The All New Toyota Prius S 1.8
The Toyota Prius will always be known as the first mass-produced hybrid car in the world. This car is undoubtedly one of the first hybrid cars produced. The first generation Prius was launched back in 1997 in Japan and was introduced worldwide in 2000. ‘Prius’ is a Latin word which means original or first. The name was chosen because About Prius was launched just before the issue of the environmental protection became a major social concern for the world.
The new fourth generation Prius has set a benchmark for other hybrid car manufacturers. The new Prius boasts to have 70g/km of CO2 emissions, which makes it one of the most environmentally friendly cars in the world.
The Design and Style of Prius S 1.8
The designers at Toyota have managed to bring out a more striking look in the newer version of Prius as compared to the previous ones. The car’s overall ride height has been reduced by about 20mm, which makes the car lower. The new design has also made the car longer as well as slightly wider. The car has a low center of gravity, which has improved handling of the car, and the use of high-strength steel has reinforced the body, making the car more rigid. There have been improvements in the chassis, the MacPherson struts have been modified and the rear has a new double wishbone with trailing arms. The engineers at Toyota have focused a lot on the hybrid engine and have worked on ways to make the driving experience better, keeping in mind the fuel efficiency of the car. The modifications made in the Prius S 1.8 are considered to be evolutionary and extensive. The engine is 1.8- liter VVTi that gives 97bhp. Toyota has extensively worked on the new exhaust gas recirculation system and has improved the combustion, which has improved mileage and has reduced the CO2 emissions of the car.
The transaxle, where the electric motors and transmission are fitted, have been modified. Smaller and lighter electric motors and generators have helped in making enough room for the auxiliary battery to be housed in the engine compartment. The new nickel metal hydride battery is compact and is now fitted under the back seats.
Interior of the car
The interior of Prius S 1.8 is spacious and houses very comfortable seats. When you look at the interior, you know you are about to sit in a car that is really advanced as compared to any local sedans. The interior is technologically sophisticated and has a feeling of calmness and simplicity to it. If we compare it with the previous model of Prius, the car has lower and comfortable seats. The dashboard is equipped with a digital speedometer and an improved multi-function trip computer. One of the trip computer screens has a power usage meter, which helps you to check on the power the electric motors have in them.
Some of the features, the new Prius is equipped with include 7.0-inch color touchscreen multimedia system, Bluetooth streaming, a reverse camera, a USB port, and a wireless mobile phone charger.
Performance and mileage
The car is still not as exciting to drive; one needs to put the accelerator all the way to the floor before they get a feel of the power of the engine; though the response time of the engine has improved. It gives enough of power when overtaking, which is good enough when driving in the city. The major advancement is that the hybrid powertrain responds with greater amounts when the power is needed. So when you need power, accelerate just a bit, and you’ll get a feel of the energy in the car. The new Prius does about 26 km/l which is great number for a hybrid sedan.
The Toyota Prius S 1.8 is a very well equipped car, with improved performance and is easy to drive; though it is expensive and could cost between 2.6- 3.0 million rupees.