Toyota Unveils new Prius at Detroit Auto Show: Bigger, with more power and less weight

Toyota introduced its third-generation Prius at the Detroit Auto Show with an extensively re-engineered hybrid drivetrain.

Ninety percent of the Prius's hybrid synergy drive system has been redesigned, with the focus on weight reduction. The lighter components include the transaxle to cut down on torque loss, inverter with direct cooling and smaller motor. In all, Toyota says it reduced system weight by 20 percent and estimates a 50-mpg combined fuel economy rating.

Three selectable drive modes are now offered. EV-Drive uses only battery power for low speed motoring, Eco for optimal fuel economy and Power mode increases throttle response for enthusiastic outings. Additionally, the regenerative brake system, now with discs at all corners, has been revised for improved regeneration performance.

Paired with the hybrid system is a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder, replacing the previous 1.5-liter unit. The larger engine features a power bump of 22 hp to 98 hp and torque increase of 23 lb-ft to 105 lb-ft over its predecessor, helping to shave off more than a second from the Prius's 0-60 mph time, to 9.8 seconds. With the additional torque, engine revs are kept lower at highway speeds to consume less fuel. Also helping to improve engine efficiency is an electric water pump, exhaust gas recirculation system and the elimination of all belts under hood.

New exterior styling boasts sharper lines and more distinctive wedge shape, achieved by moving the top of the roof back 3.9 inches to improve rear headroom and aerodynamics. Extensive wind tunnel work further improves airflow through the underbody to drop the coefficient of drag value to 0.25 from 0.26 of the current model.

The redone interior is built partially from plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics. Cabin comfort improves with an optional moonroof with solar panels powering an electric fan, reducing cool-down periods in warm months. A remote air conditioning system is also offered, capable of operating on battery power alone to adjust interior temperature prior to getting in the car. Reducing driver distractions is a Touch Tracer system that projects an image of audio and info controls on a panel in front of the driver.

Radar cruise control and a self-parking system are also available as options.

Base pricing hasn't been announced, but even with all the new content Toyota said the price shouldn't be a big increase from today's $22,720 price tag when it goes on sale late this spring.

Detroit Auto Show News

By Jonathan Wong