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Differences between European and North American Prius

Discussion in 'Gen 4 Prius Main Forum' started by Seeney, Sep 12, 2020.

  1. Seeney

    Seeney New Member

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    What are the differences between the 2016 European and North American Prius? Why is the 2016 European Prius towing capacity 1598 lbs and the North American Prius operation manual says no towing? Why can one tow and the other can’t are the vehicles manufactured differently? Thank you for responding to my post
     
    #1 Seeney, Sep 12, 2020
    Last edited: Sep 12, 2020
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    welcome!
    the only difference is, we have more lawyers than they do. you can tow with no problem, but if toyota finds out, they won't honor any warranty if needed
     
    #2 bisco, Sep 12, 2020
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  3. Prodigyplace

    Prodigyplace 2025 Camry XLE FWD

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    Well, they have differing package options. Early US 2016 Prius was stuck measuring miles and could not be changed to Km. Some Europeans drive on the wrong side of the road. ;)
     
    #3 Prodigyplace, Sep 12, 2020
  4. Elektroingenieur

    Elektroingenieur Senior Member

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    The major stampings and mechanical components are the same, if not identical, but the vehicles are designed to meet different safety and emissions regulations. For example, there are completely different bumpers, and the software in the hybrid vehicle control ECU and engine control module is different. (The European version has side mirror turn signal lights!)
    As discussed in previous threads, there are also different regulations for trailers, and differences in driving practices and expectations:

    Can you tow with a Prime?!? | PriusChat
    Why Tow Ratings are Different in the EU vs. the US | PriusChat
     
    #4 Elektroingenieur, Sep 12, 2020
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  5. kithmo

    kithmo Couch Potato

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    Yeah but you guys have the steering wheel on the wrong side of the car :rolleyes::p:D
     
    #5 kithmo, Sep 13, 2020
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  6. Prodigyplace

    Prodigyplace 2025 Camry XLE FWD

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    Unfortunately the occasional real idiot from here drives on our proper side of your roads and kills someone. :mad:

    At least neither of us drives upside down like @alanclarkeau in Australia. ;)
     
    #6 Prodigyplace, Sep 13, 2020
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  7. alanclarkeau

    alanclarkeau Senior Member

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    It's all in what you take as your point of reference.

    upload_2020-9-13_21-9-28.png
     
    #7 alanclarkeau, Sep 13, 2020
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  8. Seeney

    Seeney New Member

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    Thank you so much. Your post was amazingly helpful.
     
    #8 Seeney, Sep 13, 2020
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