Thread repository for ALL non-PriusChat 2016 Prius reviews

Yeah even 215s are skinny "Prius" tires.

 

Only if you know what you're doing. Joe Public is going drive off the road with those tires.

 

http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2016-toyota-prius/?all=1

 

It's my go-to site for Canadian automobile reviews. They're a good bunch.

 

@jbkendrick the moonstone fabric gets vent accents and contrast stitching too! (see above NYT link)

 

English subtitles available

 

2016 Prius Technology

http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/test-drive-2016-toyota-prius-tech/

 

Toyota Prius 2016 – Elle a changé et elle est géniale! | Guide Auto

Translation:

The 2016 Toyota Prius is different - The classic and original, and not the plug-in, the c or the v. It has been redesigned, have you noticed? Longer, larger and lower, the 4th generation Toyota Prius lost its spaceship look, its lines are more refined and its interior radically improved. But that's not all. In terms of driving, the car has climbed up several rungs. In fact, it's great; one forgets they're driving a hybrid.

After several hundred kilometres driving the 2016 Toyota Prius - in Quebec, in the urban jungle, travelling through construction zones on the highway and on the hilly roads of Charlevoix - and a full tank of $22, I found it difficult to hand the keys back to Toyota. And yet, at the start, the test vehicle didn't tempt me. I would've preferred the plug-in 2017 Prius Prime, coming this autumn with the expected fuel consumption of 1.97Le/100km.

A redesigned vehicle

It must be said that I didn't have excellent memories driving the previous generations of the classic Prius. But taking place in the vehicle, and seeing the constant improvements on aesthetics and ergonomics, on comfort and space, I was eager to see more.

The 2016 Prius range comprises of 3 models - the base Prius, Prius Technology and Prius Touring. Toyota Canada provided the base model for this test drive, priced at $27,950 (before taxes) equipped with the Upgrade Package for $590. The manufacturers shows that you have everything you need in the base model. It's generously equipped and the Upgrade Package adds heated front seats, automatic headlights (Editor: It's actually standard, it's an article error), cruise control (Editor: DRCC, not cruise control), lane departure warning system and pre-collision system.

Personally, I would be happy with heated seats but I would love to add some light to the interior with a moonroof. However, the latter is only offered in the Technology model ($30,585) and it would cost you $3,260 to get Blind Spot Monitoring which is included in the Advanced package. In short, the Prius cannot be purchased à la carte, but the base model offers good value.

Generous standard equipment

The smart key, backup camera, bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, a USB port in the front, foldable heated power mirrors, alloy wheels, automatic climate control, power windows, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, EcoDrive monitor, 6.1" display audio system w/ 6 loudspeakers and AUX input - all that! - is part of the standard equipment. About the Upgrade Package, it won't cost you anything because it's practically reimbursed to you by the $500 government rebate [for purchasing a hybrid in Quebec], directly taken off at the dealer.

The Prius is started with a push button. The central console has small practical storage compartments for your smart key, your smartphone and other small items. The USB port allows you to connect your phone to charge. If you love gadgets, the Technology model also offers wireless [phone] charging.

The cloth seats aren't the most comfortable that I know and if you have a sensitive back and needs more lumbar support, you will unfortunately have to choose the Technology model which has the option feature. However, we made the return trip from Quebec to La Malbaie without aches. It's perfectly fine for daily driving. Behind the rear seats, there is sufficient space for you to put grocery bags for a family of four. The rear seat folds down 60/40 to expand the cargo space if need be.

The secret behind the improved drive

Now we talk about the drive. The new Prius will surprise you. It's quick, agile, lively and offers a well-balanced behaviour. It's night and day compared to the old generations. The secret behind the new driving behaviour: The application of new TNGA global architecture, an integrated development program that, in this application, results in a lower centre of gravity, a new chassis and a new stiffer and high-strength body structure. Add to that a new rear suspension that contributes to a smoother ride than the previous model and brakes that provide a more natural and progressive feel.

I found the response of the hybrid system acceptable. The 4th generation Prius again uses a 1.8 litre, 4 cylinder gas engine and a CVT transmission, but the two components received several upgrades to improve efficiency. The acceleration is more lively and passing manoeuvres are easier on the highway.

Aside from the gasoline engine, the hybrid system combines two electric motors and NiMH battery pack. Note that a new lithium-ion battery pack is added to the list of options. Its compact dimensions is its main advantage. It frees up more space in the trunk.

The Prius can operate in hybrid mode, that is, combining both the gasoline engine and the electric motors or operate in 100% electric mode under certain conditions. For example, if you can drive at low speed (under 40km/h) in city traffic, you will not spend a drop of fuel. Think of all the the money saved. In conclusion, if I had to choose a compact [car] with a budget between $25,000 and $30,000, I will seriously consider the Prius.

 

2016 Toyota Prius Review

How I Got 65 MPG From A 2016 Toyota Prius