Featured All Worldwide 2016 Prius 4th Generation Press Releases

Toyota's press releases for the 4th generation 2016 Prius vary widely across the world in the information provided and the amount of it. So, I've included all of the press releases from across the world, starting with the global release, then the US release, then the Euro release. Keep in mind that some of the features will vary across the world.

Due to the multiple releases that Toyota is putting out, these are listed in reverse chronological order, with the most recent releases first since they contain more information than the previous.

10/13 Releases

Under the Hood of the All-new Toyota Prius


Toyota City, Japan, October 13, 2015―In its fourth generation, the Toyota Prius is set to take on new markets with groundbreaking environmental performance, a bold new design, and a fun-to-drive spirit. Today, Toyota is proud to unveil the technological advances that enable its hybrid flagship to break the mold while still remaining true to form.


All-new Prius (prototype based on Japan specifications)

More than nine million gasoline-electric hybrid cars are in service throughout the world. Toyota-made vehicles account for eight million of them, and the Prius makes up half of Toyota's total. The vehicle which just 18 years ago set out to be a forerunner of a new era of automotive environmental consciousness has quickly become mainstream.

There's no doubt that the Prius sparked a revolution. When it went on sale in 1997, it was the world's first mass-produced full-hybrid vehicle. In 2003, the second-generation model revolutionized the eco-car market again with its focus on improved fuel efficiency and distinctive triangular silhouette. Having already brought hybrids into the mainstream, the Prius made significant progress in its third generation in 2009, achieving fuel efficiency of 32.6 km/L in the Japanese JC08 test cycle.

The fourth-generation Prius builds on the environmentally-friendly credentials of the its predecessors, with certain grades achieving a target fuel efficiency of 40 km/L under the Japanese JC08 cycle (in-house measurements).

Today, however, many automakers offer alternative energy vehicles, in part because Toyota made its technology available to promote uptake of the concept. Environmental performance alone is no longer enough to truly make a car stand out in a now-crowded segment. That's why Toyota rebuilt the Prius from the ground up, broadening the car's appeal by overhauling its design, improving performance, and adding personal touches both inside and out, under the developmental concept of "a beautiful car for a beautiful Earth."

The result: a sleeker, sportier form that elicits an emotional response from the outset; an interior designed to pamper its occupants; a fun driving experience with plenty of excitement; advanced safety functions; and the ability to double as a power supply in emergencies. Central to many of these advances is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), an innovative, integrated development program for powertrain components and vehicle platforms, which enabled the car's technical engineers to achieve their performance goals.

In other words, the all-new Prius has everything it needs to remain a segment leader and a pioneer, offering improved environmental performance in a more compelling, comfortable, responsive and engaging package than ever.

Following its unveiling in Las Vegas last month, the all-new Prius will go on display from October 28 at the Tokyo Motor Show, and is slated to go on sale in Japan in December.

Main specifications of prototype model (based on internal estimates)
Length / Width / Height 4,540 mm / 1,760 mm / 1,470 mm
(1,475 mm on models with E-Four system)
Wheelbase 2,700 mm
Interior length / width / height 2,110 mm / 1,490 mm / 1,195 mm
Engine Type In-line 4 DOHC
Displacement 1,797 cc
Maximum output 72 kW [98 PS] / 5,200 rpm
Maximum torque 142 N･m [14.5 kgf･m] / 3,600 rpm
Motor Maximum output 53 kW [72 PS]
Maximum torque 163 N･m [16.6 kgf･m]
Battery Lithium-ion or nickel hydride
Sporty, low-slung stance and distinctive exterior
Based on Toyota's Iconic Human-tech design philosophy of fusing emotional and rational vehicle factors, the exterior of the all-new Prius hints at the car's advanced functions while also expressing its fun-to-drive spirit, creating an instant and lasting impression.

The Prius' signature triangular silhouette begins with the Toyota emblem, continues along the lower hood and sweeps over the top of the cabin towards the rear wing. The rocker panel features a distinctive light-catching surface that begins at the lowest part of the front bumper and under the door, then races upward to accentuate the car's low-slung stance.

Completing the triangle is the beltline, which is angled lower and forward for a sense of motion, creating an advanced structure in which the glasshouse intersects with the body for a unified yet aggressive appearance. Together, these design elements contribute to the aggressive, front-flowing feel of the exterior.

In redesigning the Prius, Toyota has moved the peak of the roof forward by 170 mm and lowered the car's maximum height by 20 mm. The result is a distinctive outline that instills the next-generation halo eco-car with a unique presence while also being functional in ensuring ample head clearance for occupants and helping to achieve an exceptional drag coefficient of 0.24. Furthermore, the nose has been lowered by 70 mm, while the rearmost section of the cowl and hood has been lowered by 62 mm, improving front visibility.

Bi-Beam LED headlamps provide both high beams and low beams in a single lens with a robustly distinctive design. Meanwhile, the curved, triangular LED clearance lamps make their own striking impression.

At the rear, distinctive character lines and a coordinated LED lamp design add to the car's emotional appeal and distinctive hybrid presence. The overall impression is a firm, planted stance achieved with an upper beltline and prominent rear spoiler that connect with corner edges for more efficient aerodynamics.

The exterior comes in nine colors, including three new colors: the sporty and lustrous Emotional Red, Thermo-Tec Lime Green (Japan only) which helps mitigate increases in exterior surface temperature, and Steel Blonde Metallic (North America and Japan only), which exudes a progressive yet refined composure.

An advanced but warm interior
Staying true to the core concepts of the Prius, Toyota has produced an occupant-friendly interior that focuses on ease of use, with a design that aims to evoke the car's advanced capabilities while remaining warm and welcoming.

The instrument panel, with its thin, horizontal design and smooth surfaces, consolidates operational areas near the driver and places information areas further away. This creates a spacious and comfortable area for front-seat occupants, and gives the cabin itself a unified feel that embraces and engages with occupants.

Both the steering wheel and the front console tray are highlighted by a white accent that stands out and adds warmth and flair to the advanced design.

In order to minimize discomfort during long drives, Toyota has totally redesigned the Prius' seats. In the front seats, improvements to frames and cushion bolstering have enhanced comfort while saving weight and space, providing a 'snug' fit and chiropractic control, while the seatback springs have been moved rearward for optimal occupant posture. As a result, pressure on the lower part of the pelvis is reduced and dissipated broadly, thereby alleviating stress on the lower back and muscles.

The cushioning in the rear seats has also been optimized, with the seating area widened to mirror the improved comfort of the front seats. Although the car's height has been lowered, there has been no sacrifice in terms of cabin space―in fact, the fourth-generation Prius offers more headroom than previous models.

Enhanced hybrid system delivers target fuel efficiency of at least 40 km/L
The Prius retains its 1.8-liter VVT-i equipped Atkinson cycle petrol engine (2ZR-FXE), which is perfectly for highway driving needs. However, the engine has been completely re-engineered, with remarkable results in terms of performance, fuel economy, and reductions to size and weight.

The new engine achieves a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 percent―the world's highest level in a mass-produced gasoline engine (as of October 2015, according to in-house research). This improvement was enabled in part through the use of a large-volume exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and improvements in combustion efficiency. Additionally, a redesigned air intake port improves airflow inside the combustion chamber, while the coolant passages have been redesigned to optimize internal engine temperature. The friction created by the piston skirts, rotating parts and the oil pump has been reduced, while the use of low-viscosity oil reduces friction between sliding engine components.

Key components of the hybrid system―including the motors, transaxle, power control unit and hybrid batteries―are now smaller and lighter, improving fuel efficiency and making excellent use of space.

The transaxle also boasts a more compact design, and achieves approximately 20 percent loss reduction compared to the current Prius. This was made possible due to multi-shaft positioning of the motors, along with the relocation of the final drive reduction gear onto the same axis as the drive motor.

The two all-new motor-generators in the Prius boast higher output density, with size and weight reduced to suit the multi-shaft transaxle design without affecting fuel economy. Both motors feature an innovative rolling-coil structure.

Improvements to the power control unit, including the use of low-loss components, have resulted in a 20 percent reduction in electrical losses, and a more compact design enables the unit to be positioned directly above the transaxle. The auxiliary battery has been relocated from the luggage area to the engine compartment. The relocation of the hybrid batteries to the space under the rear seats also increases the capacity of the luggage area by 56 liters, bringing the new total to 502 liters.

For the first time, the Prius has market-specific hybrid batteries―either Nickel-Metal Hydride or Lithium-ion. Positioned under the rear seats, these high-performance, compact batteries contribute to improvements in fuel efficiency.

Fuel efficiency is also boosted by improvements to heating performance. An automatic grille shutter has been added to open and close the grille as necessary in response to outside temperatures. The exhaust heat recirculation system has also been improved and made more compact. This recycles exhaust heat from the engine into the coolant to be reused in the heaters and to warm the engine. Cold weather fuel efficiency has also been improved by introducing an engine coolant selector valve and adding a new system which accelerates engine heating.

Toyota New Global Architecture improves safety, performance and comfort, and ensures a quiet drive
The new Prius' center of gravity is lower than the current model, resulting in exceptional stability and minimal sway during driving. Through TNGA, body torsional rigidity has been improved by more than 60 percent compared with previous models, due to the use of Laser Screw Welding (which allows for welds at shorter intervals along the frame compared with spot welding), structural body adhesives, and the use of ring-shaped frame structures. These improvements combine to produce a firmer, more stable ride.

Toyota has increased the amount of high tensile strength steel plate (using strong, lightweight hot-stamp materials with tensile strength of at least 980 Mpa) from three percent in the current model to 19 percent in the new model. Additionally, the new Prius body was designed to meet Toyota's most stringent safety benchmark yet, the Global Outstanding Assessment. This results in a light and stable frame with class-leading collision safety performance.

Driver and passenger hip points in the Prius have been lowered by 59 mm, combining with optimized placement of the steering wheel and pedals for a more natural and comfortable driving position which minimizes fatigue and improves operability.

Toyota has developed an all-new double wishbone rear suspension for the Prius to provide new levels of handling stability and ride comfort, including a significant improvement in wheel-wheel impact shock damping.

The rigidity of the body suppresses vibration and noise, while Laser Screw Welding allows for further noise elimination throughout the vehicle by decreasing the distance between welded joints. Improvements can be felt from the windows and doors to less obvious areas such as the floor and ceiling, making for an exceptionally quiet ride.

New updates to the Prius' hybrid system software improve the feel of acceleration, giving a smooth and direct response in a lower rpm range.

Toyota has added a new feature to enhance the driving experience when Power mode is selected. An adaptive system continuously monitors the acceleration pattern and lateral G-force readings to determine if the driver is adopting a more enthusiastic driving style. This system will then adapt and implement a sportier acceleration and deceleration.

To improve brake feel and control while reducing noise reduction, the all-new Prius utilizes a newly-developed active hydraulic booster for its regenerative brakes.

A full complement of advanced technologies worthy of the Prius name
Toyota Safety Sense P, a collision avoidance and mitigation package available on the all-new Prius, combines a camera and millimeter-wave radar for outstanding performance and reliability. Toyota Safety Sense P integrates four of Toyota's existing active safety technologies: a Pre-Collision System that can detect both pedestrians and vehicles, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam, and Radar Cruise Control.

Intelligent Clearance Sonar plays a support role in collision avoidance during low-speed maneuvering regardless of accelerator or brake pedal operation, and reduces damage resulting from collisions. Safety is further enhanced through a warning function which uses ultrasonic sensors on the side of the vehicle to alert drivers of possible collisions when turning right or left.

Drivers can also take advantage of Toyota's newly-developed Simple Intelligent Parking Assist, which uses ultrasonic sensors to detect surrounding objects and identify parking spaces. The driver stops the car before an open parking space and, at the push of a single button, the system guides the driver to the correct position for reverse parking and aids in backing into the space. The accuracy of this system has also been improved, and objects can be detected by the ultrasonic sensors even if the rear camera fails to do so.

The Prius also features a Blind Spot Monitor developed by Toyota to warn the driver if there is a vehicle on either side when making a lane change. The driver is alerted to the presence of a vehicle in the blind spot by illuminating LED indicators in the relevant exterior mirror.

The new-generation Prius offers a unique instrument cluster featuring two high-tech 4.2-inch full-color thin-film transistor (TFT) LCD screens with convenient, easy-to-read displays. The right-side screen indicates speed, fuel levels, and other basic data, while the left-side screen is a Multi-Information Display (MID) operated by switches mounted on the steering wheel.

A Head-Up Display (HUD)―full color for the first time in a Toyota vehicle―projects the car's speed and other alerts onto the windshield to minimize shift in the driver's field of focus.

The steering wheel features synthetic leather with temperature-regulating properties, providing a pleasant, comfortable feel.

The S-flow air-conditioning control automatically focuses airflow only to areas where people are seated to maximize comfort and fuel economy.

The all-new Prius also features Toyota's recently-launched ITS Connect safety package, which uses vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication to provide drivers with the kind of safety information that cannot be picked up by onboard sensors. This includes traffic signal information and information about the presence of vehicles and pedestrians in blind spots.

E-Four ensures safe driving on snowy roads
For the first time, the Prius will feature an E-Four (electronic four-wheel drive) system, which uses a high-output rear motor to assist the engine and front motor as needed and continuously optimizes the allocation of power between the front and rear wheels. As a result, E-Four delivers levels of power and drivability under bad-weather and slippery conditions that are found only in a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

With a compact size and lightweight design that minimizes any negative impact on fuel efficiency, the system is positioned snugly in the rear of the vehicle to ensure plenty of legroom and luggage space. The luggage area capacity of the model featuring E-Four (with spare tire) is 457 liters, the same as the 2WD model (with spare tire).

US Release:

Toyota Unveils Advanced Technologies in All-New Prius
Prius to have highest fuel economy of any vehicle without a plug

• 1.8-liter VVT-i engine achieves 40 percent thermal efficiency
• Full hybrid system components have been made smaller and lighter, including the elec-tric motor, transaxle, power control unit and hybrid battery
• Newly developed lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride batteries
• Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) chassis delivers impressive driving dynamics
• Toyota Safety Sense system available among other safety enhancements


October 13, 2015
TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 13, 2015 - - In its fourth generation, the Toyota Prius is set to take on new markets with groundbreaking environmental performance, a stylish new design, and a fun-to-drive spirit. Today, Toyota is proud to unveil the technological advances that enable its hybrid flagship to break the mold while still remaining true to form.

Toyota has made significant improvements in its new generation full hybrid powertrain, reducing losses, redesigning and relocating key components and reducing weight. Extensive changes to the transaxle, engine and combined hybrid system, generate an expected 10 percent improvement in EPA estimated MPG on core models, with an Eco model that will achieve an even greater improvement.

Engine with Unprecedented Thermal Efficiency
The new Prius retains the established 1.8-liter VVT-i gasoline engine, however, the engine has been completely re-engineered, with remarkable results in terms of performance, fuel economy, and reductions to size and weight.

The new engine achieves a ground-breaking maximum thermal efficiency of 40 percent. This improvement was enabled in part through the use of a large-volume exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and improvements in combustion efficiency. Additionally, a redesigned air intake port improves airflow inside the combustion chamber, while the coolant passages have been redesigned to optimize internal engine temperature. The friction created by the piston skirts, rotating parts and the oil pump has been reduced, while the use of low-viscosity oil reduces friction between sliding engine components.

Fuel efficiency is also boosted by improvements to heating performance. An active grille shutter has been added to open and close the grille as necessary in response to outside temperatures. The exhaust heat recirculation system has also been improved and made more compact. This recycles exhaust heat from the engine into the coolant to be reused in the heaters and to warm the engine. Cold weather fuel efficiency has also been improved by introducing an engine coolant selector valve and adding a new system which accelerates engine heating.

Transaxle and Electric Motor
The transaxle and motor have been redesigned, delivering a reduction in their combined weight. The motor itself is considerably more compact and gains a better power-to-weight ratio. Notably there is a 20 percent reduction in mechanical losses through friction compared to the previous model. The planetary gear arrangement in the reduction gear has been replaced with parallel gears, which further helps loss reduction.

Power Control Unit
The use of a loss-reduction device in the power control unit cuts losses by about 20 percent. With a more compact design, the unit can now be positioned directly above the transaxle.

New Lithium-Ion or Nickel-Metal Hydride Hybrid Batteries
he new Prius will be available with either a new lithium-ion or a new nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery. While the batteries use established technology, Toyota has succeeded in increasing their energy density, which means more power can be obtained from a smaller unit. This in turn has allowed the battery to be relocated beneath the rear seat, increasing cargo space.

A Hybrid that Handles
The TNGA concept delivers an increase of more than 60 percent in body torsional rigidity, compared to the previous model, by using Laser Screw Welding (with a greater number of weld points), structural adhesives and uniquely shaped frame structures. In addition, the amount of high-tensile strength steel has increased from 3 percent to an impressive 19 percent. Combine these enhancements with its new double wishbone rear suspension and a lower center of gravity, and the result is a hybrid with a sporty ride.

New updates to the hybrid system software improve the feel of acceleration, giving a smooth and direct response in a lower rpm range. To improve brake feel and reduce noise, the all-new Prius utilizes a newly-developed active hydraulic booster for its regenerative brakes.

Functional Beauty
The new Prius displays cutting-edge styling that’s been designed to evoke a stronger emotional response. The TNGA chassis allows for lower lines, while retaining the Prius’s signature triangular silhouette.

The body height has been reduced by 20mm and the high point of the roof has been moved 170mm forward, ensuring plenty of headroom for front seat passengers while also contributing to excellent aerodynamics and an impressive 0.24 coefficient of drag (Cd). The lower center of gravity has also allowed the nose height to be brought down by 70mm and the rearmost section of the hood by 62mm, improving the driver’s forward view.

Standard bi-LED headlamps are fitted, which use a single lens for both high and low beam operation. They have a striking appearance that adds character and emphasis to the front of the car.

The rear of the Prius features strong lines that extend from the rear spoiler through the combination lamps to meet the edges of the bumper. The result is both distinctive and functionally aerodynamic.

Interior Designed to Please the Senses
Staying true to the core concepts of the Prius, Toyota has produced an occupant-friendly interior that focuses on ease of use, with a design that aims to evoke the car’s advanced capabilities while remaining warm and welcoming.

The new instrument panel has a slim, sculpted form, with optimum positioning of the gauges, displays and controls. White accents on the steering wheel and front console tray add to the impact and advanced quality of the design.

New seats have been created to provide more comfort and support and to help ease the strain of long journeys. Innovations in the materials and thicknesses used for the cushion pads help take the strain off the hips and create a more comfortable feel for passengers.

Improvements have also been made to the cushioning of the rear seats in order to match the higher comfort levels achieved in the front seats. Although the car’s height has been reduced, this is not at the cost of space; in fact an innovative ceiling design has increased headroom compared to previous models.

New Features for On-board Information and Comfort
Toyota has improved the look and performance of the multi-information display in the driver’s instrument panel. Data and images are now presented in full color with high resolution graphics on dual, 4.2-inch multi-information display screens. The right-hand section presents speed, fuel level and other basic data and the left-hand section is a multi-display where the driver can select preferred content using a switch on the steering wheel.

There is also a new color head-up display, which projects essential vehicle data and alerts on to the lower section of the windscreen, making information instantly and easily readable without the driver having to take their eyes off the road ahead.

The Smart-flow (S-FLOW) air conditioning system improves efficiency. It detects whether the front and rear passenger seats are occupied and adjusts ventilation and heating performance accordingly, minimizing air flow around any empty seats. This results in making the cabin environment more comfortable and also helps improve fuel efficiency.

Available Advanced Technologies Worthy of the Prius Name
The new Prius will make a significant advance in active and preventive safety measures with the available Toyota Safety Sense P package that includes a Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Detection. The system uses a millimeter-wave radar and a single-lens camera with integrated control to detect both cars and pedestrians. The package also comes with Full-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Drivers can also receive parking assistance with the Intelligent Parking Assist, which uses ultrasonic sensors to detect surrounding objects and identify parking spaces. The driver stops the car before the open parking space and by pushing a single button, the system guides drivers to the right position for reverse parking and assists drivers in backing into the space.

Setting the Stage for the Future of Mobility
It started in 1992 with a vision for the future – mobility in harmony with society. Prius, which means “to go before” changed the way we move about the world, and changed the automotive industry forever. More than two decades and over 8 million Toyota hybrid sales later, the all-new, no compromises 2016 Prius stands side by side with its sibling, the hydrogen powered Mirai, poised to change the game yet again. The new Prius will arrive in dealerships early next year.
Toyota Prius Takes a Bold Step Forward


Las Vegas, U.S., September 8, 2015―Toyota revealed the all-new 2016 Prius today in Las Vegas. In its fourth generation, the model redefines expectations from hybrids by sporting a ground-breaking style and setting new standards in fun-to-drive dynamics.


The Prius went on sale in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle. By offering outstanding environmental performance in an affordable package, it changed perceptions and helped raise the status of alternative energy vehicles from niche products to game-changers. As of July 31, 2015, cumulative Prius sales exceed 3.5 million vehicles across approximately 80 countries and regions.

Thanks largely to pioneers such as the Prius; today's car buyers often expect environmental performance as standard. In response to this trend, Toyota went to great lengths to ensure that the appeal of the fourth-generation model would extend well beyond the car's proven environmental credentials: the new model also boasts a stylish, attractive design in keeping with its fun-to-drive nature. Additionally, as the first global vehicle to use the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the new Prius has a completely new, more rigid platform which, combined with a class-leading low center of gravity and a new front and rear suspension, offer a fun, refined drive.

The new Prius will go on sale in Japan at the end of 2015, and is subsequently scheduled for successive launches around the world.

Stunning styling that subverts the conventional hybrid car image
From the bold design to the quality interior, the Prius has never had such a powerful presence. Toyota's designers were given free rein to realize their vision, and it shows.

The new model inherits the nameplate's signature triangular silhouette which, combined with a low center of gravity, results in an impressively angular yet emotional design. Flowing curves blend with aggressive cut edges that spark interest from any angle. The top of the roof has been lowered by 20 mm and moved forwards, while the engine hood has also been lowered to create a stylish outline. All improvements have been achieved with no sacrifice to interior space.


The use of new headlamps minimizes the Prius' frontal area and, at the same time, provides a striking lighting display which helps define the vehicle's distinctive character. The effect borders on being radical. Meanwhile, the bold and unique rear combination lamps express the distinctive lines of the Prius from the rear spoiler to the trailing edges of the sides.

Up to eight exterior colors are available, including "Emotional Red" which utilizes a newly developed treatment process to achieve a deep, vibrant luster that highlights the external forms.

According to Kouji Toyoshima, the model's chief engineer: "There is much more to the new Prius than a green image. The exterior has a particularly emotional appearance, thanks in part to the new platform that enables a low slung silhouette similar to a sports car."

The Prius' interior adopts advanced technology complemented by features that are functional, fun and have high visual impact. Once inside you feel immediately comfortable, cossetted and impressed by styling cues seldom, if ever, seen before in a vehicle.

A sense of quality and space is created through the wide instrument panel with its layered construction that clearly defines the "display zone", separating it from the "control zone" which is now closer to the driver. White ornamentation used in the lower sections of the cabin evokes an impression of fine bone china.


TNGA makes the new Prius fun to drive
To greatly improve core vehicle performance and enhance product appeal, Toyota is implementing the Toyota New Global Architecture, an innovative, integrated, development program for powertrain components and vehicle platforms.

As the first global product of this activity, the new Prius has received an entirely new Toyota platform. This has resulted in improved handling, safety and heightened driving enjoyment. Nearly every aspect of the new Prius has been improved in surprising and significant ways.

The new Prius features a chassis that is 60 percent more rigid, while the powertrain unit's lower placement and low center of gravity has increased the vehicle's stability and comfort.

Evolutionary advances to the hybrid system
Almost every internal component of the Prius engine is new or substantially revised―effectively blueprinted to the finest limits and tolerances.

A comprehensive program of size and weight reductions for major hybrid components was achieved while maintaining overall performance.

As a result, the Prius has achieved a remarkable world's best, with over 40 percent thermal efficiency and a huge boost in fuel economy, contributing significantly to overall driver enjoyment and fewer visits to the fueling station.

Improved driving dynamics and safety
The new Prius is 60 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm lower than the model it replaces, providing a much more planted on-road presence while also delivering more occupant and cargo room.

A class-challenging low center of gravity and completely new and far more responsive front and rear suspension package provides a significantly improved driving experience. The height of the Prius' front badge is exactly the same as that of Toyota's 86 sports car―an indication of the advancement made in achieving optimum reduction in height and mass.

The new front suspension and rear double wishbone suspension gives the new Prius a greater connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions.

Improvements to chassis rigidity mean that the Prius is noticeably more responsive in corners. Whether going up a winding mountain road or urban terrain, the car's handling is taken to an all-new level while maintaining excellent occupant comfort.

In addition to creating a dynamic, exciting driving experience, TNGA provides a high-strength framework and stiffened structure to help enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision. The high strength upper body is designed to distribute frontal collision impact energy. Additional reinforcements have been adopted to distribute side collision impact energy.

Active safety systems have also received a significant update: all models will feature the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes (depending on grade and market) Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Road Sign Assist is available exclusively in Europe.

Prius Preliminary Specifications (North American market)
Figures in square brackets [ ] indicate dimensional changes from existing models
Length 4,540 mm [+60 mm]
Width 1,760 mm [+15 mm]
Height 1,470 mm [-20 mm]
Wheelbase 2,700 mm [±0 mm]

United States

Beyond Possible: The Sky's the Limit for the All-New 2016 Prius at Las Vegas World Premiere Event

• Striking exterior design ushers in new hybrid era
• New platform and rear double wishbone suspension dial up driving dynamics
• Ten percent fuel economy improvement on core models; highest MPG without a plug
• First vehicle based on Toyota’s New Global Architecture
• Toyota Safety Sense system available among other safety enhancements

September 09, 2015
LAS VEGAS, Sept. 8, 2015 - - The same vehicle that pioneered the hybrid category just disrupted the status quo again. The all-new, fourth-generation Prius starred in a spectacular evening production of music, food and special effects to celebrate an industry icon in a way that was anything but expected.

More than 350 journalists, social influencers and Toyota guests watched the all-new 2016 Prius elevate into the Las Vegas night sky. After almost twenty years of shaping the world view on alternative energy vehicles, and more than 3.5 million global sales, Prius is setting out to change the world again.

Today’s consumers expect environmental credentials, and the new Prius delivers. Smaller, lighter hybrid system components, higher-energy density in the batteries, and an internal combustion engine touting ground-breaking thermal efficiency (more than forty percent), contribute to a significant advancement in fuel economy. With an expected ten percent improvement in EPA estimated MPG on core models, Prius will offer best-in-class fuel economy among vehicles without a plug. A soon-to-be unveiled Eco model will achieve an even greater improvement, strengthening Toyota’s leadership in hybrid fuel efficiency.

But it’s not just about MPG anymore. Today’s customers want all the traditional benefits of a hybrid, but don’t want to compromise on looks and performance. So Toyota upgraded the Prius inside and out to deliver the complete package - emotional styling, smarter technology and impressive MPG, in a vehicle that’s more fun to drive than ever.

“Prius set the global benchmark for hybrids, but now is breaking its own boundaries with more engaging style and fun-to-drive dynamics,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “What was once a rational purchase that for many customers focused on fuel economy, is now so much more. This Prius will invite new drivers into the category by delivering an impressive look and feel, built on the foundation of safety and eco-consciousness that define the vehicle’s heritage.”

Easy on the Eyes
The Prius’ exterior has been completely reimagined. From the side, it is longer and sleeker with the overall outline evoking an athletic shape. Inspired by a runner in the starting blocks, the sporty design conveys a feeling of forward motion.

The hood is lower and the distinctive roof peak has been moved forward. Bold character lines run along the side from the front fenders – one just above the sill that sweeps up towards the rear fender, while the upper crease morphs into the rear spoiler, which has been lowered.

The use of new standard LED headlamps minimizes the Prius’ front fascia and, at the same time, provides an arresting lighting display which helps define the vehicle’s character. The unique and striking rear combination lamps express the distinctive lines of the Prius from the rear spoiler to the trailing edges of the sides.

A palette of seven exterior colors includes an all-new Toyota hue, “Hypersonic Red.” This new color utilizes a newly developed treatment process, which results in a deep and vibrant luster highlighting the external forms.

Need a Hug?
The Prius’ new, premium interior adopts advanced technology complemented by features that are functional, fun and have high visual impact. The wrap-around dash design, form-hugging seats, ease of controls and improved visibility put the driver in complete control.

Once inside, drivers will feel immediately comfortable and impressed by styling cues that are unique in the industry. The wide instrument panel, seamlessly designed to be both functional and beautiful, gives a sense of comfort and spaciousness. Available premium white ornamentation in the lower sections of the cabin is reminiscent of fine bone china.

Efficient Development from the Start
The 2016 Prius is the first global vehicle to implement Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). TNGA aims to greatly improve core vehicle performance and enhance product appeal through an integrated development program for powertrain components and vehicle platforms. Development of vehicles is being grouped to promote strategic sharing of components with the goal of improving resource efficiency by better than twenty percent. Resources will be directed into developing advanced technologies, and most importantly even further strengthening product appeal.

A Fun-to-Drive Hybrid? A “Wish” Come True
Engineered from the ground up, the new Prius is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and 0.8 inches lower than the model it replaces, providing a planted on-road presence while delivering more occupant and cargo room.

Hallmarks of TNGA, a lower center of gravity and a more responsive suspension package, dial up the driving excitement. In fact, the height of the Prius’ front badge is exactly the same as that of Scion’s FR-S sports car – a remarkable achievement in height and mass reduction.

The all-new rear double wishbone suspension produces a better connection to the road, providing greater control and feedback in all driving conditions. A more rigid body helps improve responsiveness while cornering. From winding mountain roads to the wide boulevards downtown, the new Prius stays connected to the road, without sacrificing ride quality and occupant comfort.

Safety First
TNGA also provides a more rigid structural framework to help enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision. The high strength upper body is designed to distribute frontal collision impact energy. Plus, the Prius will be among the first U.S. models to offer Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a new multi-feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision braking. TSS bundles cutting edge safety technologies including:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Automatic High Beams

Available on the new Prius, Toyota aims to make Toyota Safety Sense available across nearly the entire vehicle lineup by the end of 2017.

Setting the Stage for the Future of Mobility
It started in 1992 with a vision for the future – mobility in harmony with society. Prius, which means “to go before” changed the way we move about the world, and changed the automotive industry forever. More than two decades and over 8 million Toyota hybrid sales later, the all-new, no compromises 2016 Prius stands side by side with its sibling, the hydrogen powered Mirai, poised to change the game yet again. The new Prius will arrive in dealerships early next year.

Europe

Full Frankfurt Auto Show European Press Release:

NEW PRIUS THE REBIRTH OF THE PIONEER

The introduction of the all-new fourth generation Prius marks a further advance in the history and achievements of Toyota’s hybrid power technology.

Frankfurt, Germany -
The new model builds on the strengths and achievements of its predecessors and is set to establish new benchmarks in fuel economy, emissions and efficiency. Each successive Prius has delivered improvements in these areas, but the new model is aiming to make the biggest leap yet in performance, with a target of improving CO2 emissions by 18 per cent*.
This achievement is only one aspect of a product that has evolved to acquire new capabilities and greater driver appeal. Powered by a new generation of Toyota’s full hybrid powertrain, the new Prius marks significant advances in highway fuel economy and provides a much more rewarding driving experience. Acceleration is smoother and more responsive, and, at higher speeds, is quieter and has a more linear feel that is better aligned to engine speed.
The new car’s dynamic capabilities are rooted in the use of the first Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. At a stroke, this endows the car with a lower centre of gravity for improved handling response and stability. It also gives the designers a freer hand to craft a car that has richer visual appeal, with lower lines overall and a more athletic profile. TNGA also helps define the “peace-of-mind” interior, with its excellent packaging, driving position and comfort. Load space is also improved thanks to the use of a smaller, more energy-dense hybrid battery and a new double wishbone rear suspension system – features which do not intrude in trunk capacity.
The Prius remains Toyota’s technological ambassador, a showcase for new, relevant technologies that raise levels of safety, convenience, performance and comfort.
Safety remains a priority, with the TNGA chassis optimised for excellent impact performance. The scope of the Toyota Safety Sense package is extended in the new Prius with addition of radar-managed Adaptive Cruise Control and a Pedestrian Detection function for the Pre-Crash Safety system.
The full hybrid powertrain has undergone extensive revisions to improve efficiency, reduce weight and sharpen performance. Detailed design changes to the engine have achieved more than 40 per cent thermal efficiency – world-best performance for a gasoline unit. Other hybrid system components have been made more compact and have been repositioned for optimum packaging, further contributing to the car’s lower centre of gravity. The new nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery is more compact while its durability and charging performance have been significantly improved.
In combination, these changes and innovations confound the popular notion of what an eco-car should be like to drive and to look at. The new Prius demonstrates the genuine rewards that remain to be enjoyed from Toyota full hybrid technology, advantages that will steadily feed through to new generations of other Toyota hybrid models.

Prius Heritage
In 1997 the original Toyota Prius was launched with the declaration “just in time for the 21st century”. As the world’s first mass-produced hybrid-powered car, it was true to the Latin roots of its name in being ahead of its time.
That first car was a small four-door sedan, powered by a new hybrid system featuring a combination of 1.5-litre VVT-i Atkinson cycle gasoline engine and 33 kW electric motor. Headline efficiency figures were 120 g/km CO2 emissions and an average 5.1 l/100km fuel consumption. This initial package was comprehensively redesigned and improved in the second generation model in 2003, with considerable gains in power and efficiency, plus a larger, more stylish, comfortable and practical hatchback design. The improved hybrid system adopted a hybrid battery pack that was smaller and lighter and offered a higher energy density. The fuel economy improved by 15 per cent to 4.3 l/100km and CO2 levels fell to a new low of 104 g/km.
The current Prius made its debut in 2009, delivering an even stronger combination of power and efficiency. The hybrid system’s output was now more than a third greater than in the original model, while at the same time CO2 emissions had fallen by a quarter and fuel consumption was 23 per cent better.
The first generation Prius created the hybrid vehicle market, the second generation raised the model’s popularity with a more advanced image, and the third generation secured mass-market success, helping Toyota progressively roll out hybrid power into its mainstream model ranges.
In its first 18 years, the Prius has reshaped the motoring landscape, bringing hybrid technology into the mainstream market and helping focus the attention of industry and consumers on how cars can be made cleaner and more efficient. The way in which people have come to understand, appreciate and adopt Toyota hybrid power is witnessed by more than eight million cumulative sales of Toyota hybrids worldwide since 1997, including more than 3.5 million Prius. The growth rate has accelerated in line with the technology’s higher visibility and the availability of an increasing range of vehicles covering different market segments. The fourth generation Prius will add further impetus to hybrid’s market appeal, achieving its strongest environmental performance yet, while delivering much improved styling and driving dynamics.
Toyota’s experience with the Prius has been central to its development of hybrid as a foundation technology for alternative powertrains, not just with conventional gasoline and diesel engines, but with biofuels and hydrogen fuel cells as well. The basic technical premise that gave Toyota its breakthrough with Prius continues to support development of new mobility solutions, from the all-electric urban i-Road to Mirai, Toyota’s first hydrogen fuel cell saloon.

The Market
The new car market has changed greatly in the 18 years since Toyota introduced the original Prius and set in motion its hybrid technology programme. Growing awareness of environmental issues and the need to protect natural resources have not only shifted people’s perceptions of how a vehicle should perform, they have been reinforced by national and international legislation requiring manufacturers to reduce vehicle emissions.
These changes have helped Toyota hybrids establish themselves in markets worldwide and have also given impetus to other manufacturers in the development of rival hybrid systems and other alternatives to conventional gasoline and diesel engines, such as all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
Hybrid has become Toyota’s key competitive advantage, the principal quality that differentiates it from other manufacturers and which gives it a specific strength in the marketplace. This is reflected in the fact Toyota hybrids make up more than 50 per cent of all the alternative powertrain vehicles sold in Europe – more than all the other hybrids, plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles combined.
The way in which hybrid has become a driver for Toyota’s success in Europe’s core new car market segments is evidenced by sales figures for 2014 which show hybrids accounted for 55 per cent of all Auris sales and 33 per cent of Yaris sales. Furthermore, hybrid is bringing more new customers to Toyota, with these models attracting significantly high levels of conquest sales from other brands – up to 63 per cent for Yaris Hybrid and 51 per cent for Auris Hybrid.
Toyota believes hybrid’s market potential will increase further, with more people taking up the technology as the emissions performance of conventional gasoline and diesel engines come under closer scrutiny and legislative control. At the same time, more manufacturers are following Toyota by introducing their own hybrid models, increasing competition and giving customers a wider choice.
Toyota will continue to enjoy the advantage of offering a full hybrid system, in which the electric motor can operate independently of the petrol engine. This allows the car to be driven in all-electric EV mode when possible, with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions. These benefits are not available in “mild” hybrid systems, in which the electric motor can be used only to support the performance of a gasoline or diesel engine.
Toyota believes that continuous improvement of its full hybrid technology will enable it to strengthen its market position, ahead of the wider uptake of alternatives such as plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles. Key challenges in securing this growth are to strengthen environmental performance while increasing the attractiveness of hybrids as desirable cars that are fun to drive. These qualities are fundamental to the new Prius, which sets new benchmarks for environmental performance while making a stronger emotional connection with customers through improved styling, quality and driveability.

THE THREE PILLARS OF THE NEW PRIUS
The new Prius is founded on outstanding hybrid technology, delivering unprecedented efficiency and environmental performance. But beyond these credentials it embraces stronger emotional and performance qualities that give it wider and greater appeal to customers who appreciate eye-catching, original styling, high levels of sensory quality, practicality and a driving experience that is genuinely fun and rewarding.
The realisation of these qualities in the new Prius is based on three pillars: the Toyota New Global Architecture, design and styling, and a new generation full hybrid system.
Toyota’s First TNGA Platform
The new Prius is the first model to use a Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. This plays a defining role in the car’s essential fun-to-drive quality, giving new Prius a lower centre of gravity compared to the current model, which in turn allows for an improved driving position.
It makes a significant contribution to improved driving dynamics – beyond what might be expected of an eco-car. This quality is further supported by a body that is 60 per cent more rigid than before thanks to extensive use of high-strength steels and additional reinforcement to the centre pillars’ lower structure and the panel connection. The result is superior, direct and responsive handling, without having to use firmer suspension settings.

Double wishbone rear suspension
The new double wishbone rear suspension plays a significant part in this, producing one-third the level of shock when driving on uneven roads compared to the current Prius. To achieve better handling with more direct response, the front MacPherson strut suspension has been revised with an increase in the incline angle of the shock absorbers and the use of slant bearings.
The chassis is fully able to harness the more responsive acceleration provided by the new full hybrid system. Greater stability is maintained, body roll is much reduced in high-speed lane changes and performance is smoother on rough surfaces. On winding roads, new Prius holds easily to the driver’s intended line and there is outstanding straight-line stability when driving at speed.

Improved safety with TNGA
Safety is a key consideration in the development of the new TNGA platforms, not just in terms of secure, stable handling, but also in improving the driver’s vision. The view from the steering wheel of new Prius is significantly wider and deeper than in the current model and rearward vision is improved by the wider curve of the rear glass.
The platform has been optimised for excellent performance in independent international crash testing, including Euro NCAP.

Styling and Design
New Prius is not simply “another green car,” its design and high quality throughout give it greater emotional appeal and a powerful, desirable presence, underpinned by the fundamental strengths of the new TNGA platform. As Toyota’s most advanced car, it is appropriate that it is an image leader and the intention has been to produce a design that makes an immediate impact.
The car’s new low-slung stance – made possible by the TNGA platform – suggests an excellent driving performance, supported by a distinctive new body silhouette that is both athletic and aerodynamically efficient. The result is a “human-tech” design with strong emotional quality, fully exploiting the opportunity presented by the car’s lower centre of gravity.

Exterior
The design theme for the new Prius has been to capture in the contrast created between the rich curves and hard surfaces of the bodywork. The result is a new form that stands out with its smooth yet sharp use of lines.
The frontal design is true to Prius’s heritage in making the Toyota emblem a strong focal point, but it also makes an impactful visual statement about its more advanced design and performance with a much lower hood height. New headlights have permitted slimmer, more striking headlamp units to be designed and these combine with an intricate but unfussy treatment of the fog lights and air intakes to give the car a distinctive and intelligent appearance
In profile, the Prius displays a silhouette that is lower and more athletic. The TNGA platform has allowed for significant reduction in height in key areas to create a lower, more dynamic appearance. The overall height has been reduced by 20 mm compared to the current Prius, to 1,470 mm. The peak of the roof has been moved forward, and the belt line has been dropped, emphasising the car’s stronger dynamic qualities. The new model retains the 2, 700 mm wheelbase of the current Prius, but is 60 mm longer overall at 4,540 mm. It is also 15 mm wider at 1,760 mm.
New Prius has a unique aerodynamic treatment to the rear section of the roof, which supports the clean flow of air over and away from the vehicle. The new TNGA platform is also designed for the smoothest possible airflow beneath the car. In combination, the car’s low wind resistance features secure a world-class coefficient of drag.
The rear end design flows strongly from the rear spoiler down through the bumper, with the wheel placement further emphasising the car’s firmly planted stance. The slim, striking combination lamps have been moved to the outer edge of the car, following a sharp angle that is accentuated by the distinctive, unbroken line of the red LED tail lights.
Toyota has produced a vibrant colour palette for new Prius with seven exterior finishes available, including a new shade, Emotional Red.

Interior
“Peace of mind” is the theme for the cabin, which is designed to be a welcoming, quiet and comfortable space, with a dashboard that wraps gently around the driver and which flows almost seamlessly into the door panels. The number of different parts that make up the instrument panel has been reduced, for example the piano black section is now a single unit. This creates a strong visual contrast with the areas of the dashboard and door panels, finished in a high-quality white material that is soft to the touch and scratch-resistant.
The fine attention to detail can be seen in elements such as the air vents, while the high ergonomic quality extends to intuitive positioning and range of adjustment of the seats. The high sensory quality of the interior is further emphasised by a pleasingly tactile leather steering wheel trim. Two interior colour choices have been created for the new Prius – cool grey and black. Overall the cabin environment is light and spacious.
Quietness has always been a distinguishing characteristic of Toyota’s hybrid vehicles and the new Prius provides a cabin environment that exudes a genuine sense of luxury in exceptionally low levels of noise, vibration and harshness. New Prius’s improved ride is further supported by a new front seat design that provides more comfort and wraparound support.

New Hybrid System
The New Prius heralds the next generation of Toyota’s signature hybrid powertrain. This new family of powertrains builds on the two pillars that have made Toyota hybrids popular with drivers across the globe: on the one hand their fuel efficiency, and on the other the relaxed and carefree drive that they provide.
Toyota has focused its efforts on making this next generation of hybrids even easier and more intuitive to drive. They have been set up so that they give a natural, immediate, but smooth response to any accelerator pedal input. Refined and confident, they deliver the right level of performance.
But of course, fuel economy has been improved as well. The new hybrid systems will come in a more compact package, that is lighter in weight and lower in cost. This new generation will reflect significant advances in battery, electric motor and gasoline engine technologies.
The batteries will offer higher energy density, which means more output from units of the same dimensions and weight.
The electric motors will be smaller in size, yet also provide a better power-to-weight ratio.
And the thermal efficiency of the gasoline engine – at 38.5 per cent already very high on the current Prius – is increased to more than 40 per cent – a world’s best for a gasoline unit.
As a result, applied to the new Prius, this new hybrid system targets an 18 per cent* improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the current car .

PRIUS: TOYOTA’S HIGH-TECH AMBASSADOR
The Prius has always provided a reference point for Toyota’s development of useful, intuitive high-tech features and that remains true for the fourth generation model, which benefits from a number of innovations that support safety, convenience and better, more sophisticated HMI (Human Machine Interface) performance.
New Prius Chief Engineer Koji Toyoshima explains: “Prius is the ambassador for Toyota technology, a brand vector pulling hybrid sales of our core models.”

Toyota Safety Sense with additional functions
The new Prius will make a significant advance in active and preventive safety measures with the adoption of Toyota Safety Sense. This package of safety features will be further extended in the new Prius with the addition of radar-governed Adaptive Cruise Control and a pedestrian recognition capability in the Pre-Collision Safety system.
In the current Prius range, only around two per cent of vehicles are sold with the Pre-Crash Safety system. In the new Prius this is one of the standard features of Toyota Safety Sense, together with Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist.

Extra sensors for safety and convenience
The technologies Toyota has developed for successive generations of the Prius have always served a clear purpose. This continues in the new model with an increase in the number of sensors to provide the driver with more comprehensive information, improving safety and convenience. In effect, new Prius becomes a driver’s sixth sense, recognising and anticipating things they might not notice themselves.

* According to New European Cycle (NEDC)

 

Updated the OP with the Frankfurt press release.