4th generation coming 2015!

Doubt we'd see much weight reduction even if the Prius is "smaller" due to a lower reach hatch (more sedan like). One of the major complaints with the Prius is road noise so I'd expect any weight savings would be negated by the addition of more sound deadening.

 

Gen4 will have smaller seats to keep the component light between the seat and the steering wheel.

 

FriarNurgle - IF, and I emphasize IF, the pictures that we have seen that are reported to be a G4 test mule, I would say it does not appear to be "more sedan like."

In truth, I have my doubts about the pictures.

 

I am light enough, so am I Gen4-ready?

 

Cut your weight by 30% to be gen4 worthy.

 

I just realized...If indeed the Gen 4 was on average 58 mpg, then wouldn't that mean around 61 mpg city and 55 mpg highway?

Both figures are amazing, especially city :O

This could also mean the PiP 2nd gen could really yield 60 mpg average and 63 mpg city and 58 mpg highway.

I am very curious about the efficiency. Here's to hoping they crack 20 miles EV though and true L2 charging speeds.

We are in a funny time in the automotive industry....

 

A news from Hybrid Life at Brussels (Toyota Auris 2015 show). Prius 4 will not be motorised with the same Otto - Atkinson-Miller like the brand new 1.2T gasoline sold in Europe.

Why ?
Because its use would go against a low consumption in all use cases, even at heavy load. The hybrid system still has priority to reduce consumption and pollution, whether in standard cycle or in real conditions. The thermal cycle engine of the fourth generation HSD remains in Atkinson-Miller, which torque will be supplemented by the electric motor.


New Toyota Auris 1.2T gasoline engine

 

wow, that's great news, thank you!

 

Not suprising, as that 1.2T achieves only 36% thermal efficiency

It's designed (downsized?) to have good fuel economy with normal transmission under light load in normal traffic conditions. Hybrid uses electric motor for light load, that is the whole point.

 

Was there any rumour that the Prius would use that?

 

Interesting news. Note that it's an "engine", not a "motor".

 

I just read from green car reports Toyota registered the trademark "Prius Prime":

Toyota 'Prius Prime' Trademark Registered; What New Hybrid Could It Be?

It most likely is nothing, or worse another more luxurious lexus version of the Prius family (not my cup).

But if i can dream, I'm hoping its a no holds barred all out most efficient version of a Prius a la volkswagens XL1. I seriously doubt that tho lol.

 

Maybe the Li-Ion version instead of NiMH (with AWD). Because think about it, you'll probably have your regular Prius trims of I II III IV and V

How confusing would it be if the LION version had just 4 more levels. Instead they could say buy the Prius Prime I, II, III, IV, and V with sunroof.

I'm still waiting for my Prius Prime minivan...

 

I think this is a good guess. I would like to see "luxury" features such as seat memory, heated steering wheel, etc. I would be very tempted.

I had been hoping for a Lexus version of the Gen III but found the ct200h to be less practical (smaller and lower) and not much of an upgrade otherwise.

 

Yep, it's gasoline engines...electric motors.

 

Naturally, I have no idea what the Prius Prime will be. But rest assured, the "prime" reason will be to extract more money.

 

i would be interested in a lexus type upgrade if it's the same size and only gives up a few mpg's and plugs in.

 

Better get that OPTIMUS vanity license plate now.

 

Maybe it comes without paint.