The Toyota Prius Thread

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SA’s 11 Worst-Selling Cars (Under R500k) Of Jan 2018

The monthly Naamsa stats generally make for rather interesting reading. But, naturally, we tend to focus on the best-performing vehicles in terms of sales.

Indeed, we’ve already reported the 10 best-selling passenger cars of January 2018, as well as listed the 10 best-selling bakkies in our market for the same period.

But now we’ve decided to take a look at the worst-selling passenger car models on our shores. Thankfully, Hyundai and Kia have started reporting their individual model sales figures, which certainly helps to paint a more accurate monthly picture. But, of course, some other automakers (such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW) still disclose only aggregate sales statistics.

Also, take note that – in order to make this list more relevant – we’ve excluded vehicle ranges that start at more than R500 000. Otherwise, this table would be dominated by luxury manufacturers such as Bentley, Ferrari and Maserati, whose high-priced vehicles traditionally sell in tiny numbers.

We also don’t count sales from run-out stock of vehicles that have been discontinued locally, such as the Volkswagen Beetle (4).

So, what happened during the month of January? Well, just a single example of the Toyota Prius was registered, while Mahindra managed to sell two units of its Xylo and Tata three of its Indica. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta could muster just four sales, a figure matched by the Subaru Forester, Subaru Impreza and Suzuki Grand Vitara.

The Abarth 595 range managed five units, while Renault Kadjar sales plummeted to eight units, to see the French crossover enter this list for the first time. The Fiat 500X was one short of hitting two figures, while the Kia registered 10 examples of its Sorento.

For reference, see December’s list here.

SA’s 11 worst-selling passenger cars (under R500k) of January 2018:

Toyota Prius – 1
Mahindra Xylo – 2
Tata Indica – 3
Alfa Romeo Giulietta – 4
Subaru Forester – 4
Subaru Impreza – 4
Suzuki Grand Vitara – 4
Abarth 595 – 5
Renault Kadjar – 8
Fiat 500X – 9
Kia Sorento – 10

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/sas-11-worst-selling-cars-under-r500k-of-jan-2018/
 
Toyota reveals Prius FFV concept that can run on ethanol

Hybrid Flexible-Fuel Vehicle designed to run on sugar cane-based ethanol as well as regular petrol

Toyota has developed a modified version of the hybrid Prius for the Brazilian market that can run on both petrol and ethanol.

The Prius Hybrid Flexible-Fuel Vehicle (FFV) prototype, capable of running on both conventional petrol and plant-based fuels such as ethanol, has been developed by Toyota with the support of the state government. It is designed to highlight a way to reduce CO2 emissions in Brazil.

By using E100 ethanol, which is 100% renewable, alongside the standard Prius hybrid powertrain, Toyota claims the FFV is significantly more environmentally friendly than a regular petrol-electric hybrid powertrain. Brazil is the world’s second-largest producer of ethanol, which is created using reproduced biomass from fermenting sugar cane.

While the FFV is a prototype – it's part of a project to commercialise the technology in Brazil – Toyota will collect data through real-road testing to gauge the system’s reliability, durability and powertrain performance.

The prototype is part of Toyota’s wider efforts to reduce vehicle CO2 emissions by 90% by 2050 compared with 2010 levels.

E10 petrol, a mix of 90% petrol and 10% ethanol, is widely used in the US and runs in standard vehicle engines.

Toyota is also building a hydrogen generation station at Port of Long Beach, California, that uses biomaterial to generate water, electricity and hydrogen.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/toyota-reveals-prius-ffv-concept-can-run-ethanol

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Toyota Prius

When it comes to the 2019 Prius, "Let's Go Places" can be expanded to "let's go more places, in more conditions" thanks to the available new AWD-e system. Designed to provide more confidence and control when weather and road conditions are less than ideal, the electric all-wheel drive system further expands where the Toyota Prius can take drivers.

The new Prius AWD-e system will certainly deliver added traction and confidence for drivers but, in true Prius fashion, the 2019 AWD-e will lay claim to being one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available in the U.S., thanks to manufacturer-projected mpg estimates of 52 mpg city / 48 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined. Toyota estimates that the AWD-e model could account for as much as 25 percent of annual U.S. Toyota Prius sales.

Toyota's AWD-e system is ideal for Prius. The automatic on-demand system does not require a center differential or other torque-apportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear driveshaft. Instead, the "e" in AWD-e stands for electric. The Toyota Prius AWD-e uses an independent electric, magnet-less rear motor (a Toyota first) to power the rear wheels from 0 to 6 mph, then when needed, up to 43 mph. This system provides the power to the rear wheels to pull away from a stop, yet the on-demand system recognizes when all-wheel-drive performance is not needed to provide great fuel economy.

The addition of the available AWD-e system is only part of the wider revision to the 2019 Prius, which debuts newly refined front and rear exterior styling, along with additional interior updates. Let's not forget the front-wheel-drive (FWD) Toyota Prius will still offer the impressive fuel economy for which it is known, with manufacturer-projected fuel economy estimates of 58 mpg city / 53 mpg highway / 56 mpg combined on the L Eco grade, while the LE, XLE and Limited has projected fuel ratings of 54 mpg city / 50 mpg highway / 52 mpg combined.

https://www.netcarshow.com/toyota/2019-prius/

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WTF is that abomination in the middle of the centre console, just when you thought the car couldn't be made any uglier Toyota goes and proves you wrong
 
Refreshed Toyota Prius revealed … with all-wheel drive!

The facelifted (US-spec) Toyota Prius hybrid has been revealed at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, gaining not just subtle styling updates but also the option of all-wheel drive.

The model for the North American market can now be specified with an electric all-wheel-drive system Toyota has dubbed “AWD-e”. The brand says the new arrangement has been “designed to provide more confidence and control when weather and road conditions are less than ideal”.

In addition, the updated Prius gains new front and rear exterior styling, along with various “interior updates”.

According to Toyota, the new Prius AWD-e will deliver “added traction” while still being “one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available” in the United States. In fact, the firm claims a fuel economy figure of 4,7 L/100 km.

Interestingly, Toyota says the automatic on-demand system does not require a centre differential or other torque-apportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear driveshaft. Instead, the Prius AWD-e uses an independent electric, magnet-less rear motor to power the rear wheels from zero to 11 km/h, then “when needed”, up to 70 km/h.

Furthermore, the AWD-e models employ a newly developed compact nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery that Toyota claims has been designed to provide “excellent performance” in cold weather.

The Toyota Prius AWD-e shares its powerplant set-up with other Prius models, combining the output of a 1,8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and two motor/generators through an electronically controlled planetary-type continuously variable transmission.

The updated Prius gains new headlamps (with bi-beam LEDs), while the peak point of the bumper has been raised. Round back, you’ll find new taillamps and a fresh inverted trapezoid shape integrated in the tailgate around the numberplate.

Toyota South Africa Motors says the updated Prius will make its local appearance in the first quarter of 2019, with “local specification and AWD-e availability to be confirmed closer to the launch”.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/refreshed-toyota-prius-revealed-with-all-wheel-drive/
 
Updated Toyota Prius Coming to SA

The facelifted Toyota Prius hybrid has made its debut at the LA Motor Show and will arrive in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019.

Even though the Prius has never really sold well in South Africa, potential buyers can now look forward to an updated version making landfall early in 2019. The latest Toyota Prius hybrid now benefits from Hybrid AWD-i, a new electric all-wheel drive system that makes use of a high-torque electric motor that provides additional drive through the rear axle when required. The system engages automatically at pull off and at speeds up to 11 kph or when the sensors detect low-grip conditions such as in snow or wet conditions at speeds between 11 and 70 kph.

The system does not compromise on boot space and only impacts minimally on fuel economy and emissions. The Prius Hybrid AWD-i is equipped with a new and compact nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery while the front-wheel drive version comes with a new lithium-ion hybrid battery.

Combined with the electric motor-generators and a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine, the Prius offers up 90 kW and 142 Nm of torque using a CVT to send power to the wheels.

New look to match

In terms of styling, the new Prius features a more dynamic appearance with new slim headlights with twin beam LEDs for better illumination. The rear lights also feature a new lighting signature and the Prius can be had in new colours including Emotional Red and Aqua Breeze. The Prius rides on new 17-inch alloy wheels while the 15-inch wheel caps now feature a dark grey finish.

The interior has been improved with new upholstery finishes as well as changes to the centre console arrangement and controls. A larger wireless charging tray has now been installed and the head-up display now includes turn-by-turn navigation directions. The touchscreen infotainment system has also been updated for faster, more intuitive response and incorporates pinch and flick functionality, much the same as a modern smartphone.

Toyota says that the new Prius can be expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019 but local specification, pricing and the availability of the Prius Hybrid AWD-i will be communicated closer to launch.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/updated-toyota-prius-coming-to-sa/45880/
 
Toyota gives Prius two head-turning TRD kits

The Toyota Prius is by no means a performance car but for those who prefer to have a sporty looking car that benefits from great fuel efficiency it will be offering these two rather interesting and conclusive TRD kits for the recently facelifted model.

The first package adds just a touch of excitement to the Prius’s design by including the usual ‘sport line’ parts. This consists of a lip and faux-air intake surrounds for the front bumper, side skirts for the profile and a diffuser for rear roof-line and bumper accompanied by a subtle boot spoiler.

The second package offers some more extreme visuals which consist of an almost complete redesign of the front bumper. Gloss black inserts are used beneath the headlamps and around the foglamps together with a bold front splitter with embedded LEDs. The rear attains a more prominent diffuser with a pair of exhaust tailpieces. Also notice the carbon fibre inserts surrounding the Toyota badge on the bootlid.

A catalogue of wheels are supplied by a number of aftermarket firms and are coupled with a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres. Other accessories consist of TRD-branded carbon fibre door handle inserts, ignition start button, valve caps, boot organiser and sun shield. Sadly, a bump in power is not made available. At this point this kit will only be available in Japan.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/toyota-gives-prius-two-head-turning-trd-kits/

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Refreshed Toyota Prius quietly arrives in SA

Back in November 2018, the facelifted Toyota Prius was revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show. And now the updated hybrid has quietly touched down in South Africa.

While the model shown in LA boasted a new all-wheel-drive system (dubbed AWD-e), it seems this option will not be offered locally (which makes sense, considering the distinct lack of snow in SA).

But the SA-spec version of the updated Prius does feature the new front and rear exterior styling, along with various “interior updates”.

According to Toyota SA’s website, the refreshed Prius will cost you R490 200, some R4 200 more than the pre-facelift model. We’ve yet to hear if the specification level has changed at all (but we'll certainly keep our eyes open).

As before, oomph comes from an unchanged hybrid powertrain comprising a 1,8-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine and two motor/generators linked to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

A three-year/100 000 km warranty (with an eight-year/195 000 km arrangement for the battery) and a six-service/90 000 km service plan are included in the price. Seven exterior colours are offered.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/refreshed-toyota-prius-quietly-arrives-in-sa/

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Toyota’s Prius hybrid gets a refresh for 2019

Toyota’s slow-selling Prius hybrid hatch has been given what its maker describes as a simplified design language, which is probably a nice way of admitting that its designers went a bit over the top with the previous model.

Anyhow, the facelifted model has just arrived in South Africa, available in a single trim grade and priced at R486 000.

The facelift brings new front and rear bumpers as well as slimmer headlights with dual-beam LEDs and redesigned combination lights at the back. Fresh wheel covers round off the design changes and the Prius is also available in two new metallic exterior colours: Sky Blue and Fierce Red.

A few of minor but meaningful cabin tweaks aim to freshen things up inside, including a redesigned centre console (now in Piano Black in place of its predecessor’s white trim) and new switches for the seat heating system. As before those seats are upholstered in black leather.

Also carrying over is the proven hybrid powertrain that mates a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine to a pair of electric motors for a system output of 100kW.

But the headline figure here is economy and to that end Toyota claims a combined cycle figure of 3.7 litres per 100km, with corresponding CO2 emissions of 87 g/km.

Standard spec includes dual-zone climate control, cruise control, six-speaker touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera, Heads Up Display and seven airbags.

The Prius also ships with a six-service or 90 000km service plan, with intervals pegged at 15 000km.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/toyotas-prius-hybrid-gets-a-refresh-for-2019-20834629
 
Updated Toyota Prius officially touches down in SA

In the middle of March 2019, we reported the refreshed Toyota Prius had quietly arrived in South Africa. Now the local arm of the Japanese automaker has officially announced the launch of this updated hybrid.

While the press material lists a price of R486 000 (unchanged from the outgoing model), Toyota SA’s website shows a starting price of R490 200.

In addition to the styling changes (plus the addition of some 35 mm to its overall length and a switch to LED foglamps), Toyota South Africa Motors says the tweaked Prius gains improved ergonomics inside as well as changes to its interior trim.

The redesigned centre console incorporates two cupholders, seat heating switches and a newly added wireless smartphone charger, while the white colour of the console itself has been changed to piano black.

The updated model is furthermore available in two new exterior metallic paint finishes (“Fierce Red” and “Sky Blue”), alongside six other colours. The hybrid’s 15-inch alloys, meanwhile, now feature a new 10-spoke “aerodynamic silver cover”.

Under the bonnet, though, nothing’s changed, with the Prius still employing a petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain that combines a 1,8-litre petrol engine with two motor generators (for a total system output of 100 kW). Toyota claims a combined fuel consumption of 3,7 L/100 km.

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/new-models/updated-toyota-prius-officially-touches-down-in-sa/
 
Toyota Prius (2019) Review

Fast Facts

Price: R490 200 (May 2019, without options)
Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol + electric
Gearbox: CVT
Fuel economy: 3.7 L/100 km (claimed)
Power/Torque: 100 kW/142+e Nm

Price and warranty

The Prius is available in only one derivative and sells for R490 200. A service plan for 6 services/90 000 km is included, with servicing required every 15 000 km. The standard warranty for the vehicle is 3-years/100 000 km, but the hybrid battery has a longer 8-year/195 000 km warranty.

Verdict

The Toyota Prius has no direct rival in the SA new vehicle market... There is no similarly sized or shaped hybrid for sale, and the family sedan market has stalled, so a potential rival (on ultimate efficiency) such as the VW Jetta TDI no longer exists. So, if you need a family-friendly vehicle that offers this kind of fuel economy (and you're buying new), then the Prius is it... or you'd have to consider switching to a turbodiesel compact crossover such as the Renault Captur or Peugeot 2008 to achieve similar practicality and a vaguely comparable level of fuel efficiency.

Still, there's much to admire about this Prius, and it does look less divisive than before, but we can't see the facelift version achieving significantly better sales numbers than its predecessor. In the below-R500 000 segment, compact SUVs and crossovers are all the rage, so in the local context, we think a hybrid C-HR would do better, and above the magical half-million mark, Toyota should consider offering the hybrid RAV4 family car, too.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/toyota-prius-2019-review/46707/

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Toyota Confirms Ten New Battery Cars

Toyota has confirmed a radical acceleration in its electric vehicle strategy.

The Japanese automotive giant has drastically increased the numbers within its near term electric vehicle policy. Toyota has announced that it plans to have a comprehensive product portfolio of pure battery-powered vehicles on sale much sooner than previously expected.

Although Toyota has maintained a strong presence in the hybrid vehicle market, with its commitment to Prius – the company has been cautious with regard to pure electric vehicles.

An engineering joint-venture with Subaru, to pursue the development of batteries and electric vehicle platform technology for crossovers, is sure to change all of this. Suzuki and Daihatsu have been courted too, for a similar partnership relating to compact city cars.

Toyota says the first of its ten new battery-powered vehicles, will be launched in 2020. The ambition is to total 5.5 million electrified vehicle sales by 2025 – essentially half of Toyota’s current global volumes.

These numbers are much more ambitious than Toyota originally planned for. The 5.5 m sales target was datelined for 2030, but that has now been brought forward by five years, to 2025. It must be noted that Toyota is including hybrids in its classification of ‘electrified’ vehicles.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/toyota-confirms-ten-new-battery-cars-/46843/

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My son has an OLD Prius. When he bought a new one last year, he decided to keep the OLD one. He was concerned that he might have to buy a replacement battery. He need not have worried, Toyota have extended the battery guarantee yet again. Who else offers 15 year guarantee? as a side note what do you call two Priuses" Priai?
 
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