 2011 Prius C&A Custom Concept | 2011 Prius PLUS Performance Package | 2011 Prius | 2011 Prius a | 2013 Prius  |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
Image credits: © Toyota.
MSRP: $24,000-39,525
Invoice: $22,565-37,945
2012 Toyota Prius news, pictures, and information | ||
| Tweet | ||
2012 Toyota Prius, America's Best-Selling Hybrid, Adds Revised Styling and Advanced
• Úpdated Styling Details and Amenities• Toyota Entune™ Connectivity Features
• 50 MPG Combined Fuel Economy Rating
• Over One Million Sold in Ú.S. Since 2000
RICHMOND, Calif., Sept. 16, 2011 – The Toyota Prius, the best-selling hybrid vehicle in America and the world, offers advanced new infotainment systems for 2012, including the Entune suite of connectivity features. A new PLÚS Performance accessory appearance and handling package introduced in late 2011 continues for 2012.
The Toyota Prius continues to lead the market for hybrid automobiles that it started 15 years ago. With its 50-MPG fuel economy rating, Prius is the most fuel-efficient gas-powered passenger car available in the Ú.S. today. Prius offers its stellar fuel economy in a versatile five-passenger package that is recognized as a midsize car by the EPA. Since 2000, Toyota has sold over one million Prius models in the Ú.S.
The third-generation Prius, which was all-new for the 2010 model year, gains updated headlamps and tail lamps, plus a new front fascia and bumper for 2012. The Prius Two gains new 15-inch wheel covers for 2012 and standard LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL). The Prius Three adds a standard three-door Smart Key entry system, and the Prius Four features standard auto on/off headlamps. The Prius Four also provides enhanced comfort wîth new SofTex-trimmed seats and an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat.There's big news for the 2012 Prius in the audio/infotainment area, wîth new standard systems for Prius Two, Three and Four models. The Prius Two, features a new Display Audio touch-screen system wîth a 6.1-inch screen. The AM/FM CD player unit offers MP3/WMA playback capability wîth six speakers, a ÚSB port for iPod® connectivity, auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability and audio streaming. The display also provides vehicle information and allows the driver to customize vehicle settings.
 | Vital Stats |
| Engine : 1.8 L., 4-cylinder Power: 98 hp Torque: 105 ft-lbs | |
Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable | |
For 2012, the Prius Four includes that system plus eight JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers and an eight-channel JBL amplifier. GreenEdge technology significantly reduces electric draw on the vehicle, which can help enhance fuel economy. When the Deluxe Solar Roof Package is ordered for the Prius Four, that system is further upgraded wîth a Head-up Display and Premium HDD Navigation System, which uses an exclusive seven-inch touch-screen wîth split-screen capability.The Solar Roof Packages continue to offer the world's first sliding glass moonroof packaged wîth solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a ventilation system. The solar powered ventilation system helps reduce the interior air temperature when parked directly in the sun. Cool-down time is shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning. The available remote air conditioning system was the first in the world to function on battery-power alone, and it allows remote operation so the driver can cool the interior temperature for comfort before getting into the car.
The top-of-line Prius Five model's Advanced Technology Package for 2012 includes the Premium HDD Navigation System, plus the Head-up Display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System and Lane Keep Assist. The Pre-Collision System retracts the front seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when it determines that a crash is unavoidable. Lane Keep Assist can help the driver stay within the lane.
The dealer-installed PLÚS Performance accessory package gives the Prius a decidedly sporty demeanor, as well as sharper handling. The Toyota Racing Development (TRD) engineered package starts wîth a seven-piece aerodynamic ground effects kit that delivers an aggressive and lower-profile stance. The custom body kit was aerodynamically designed and engineered to reduce the vehicle's coefficient of drag, maintaining its already great fuel efficiency. Seventeen-inch forged alloy wheels reduce the upsprung weight. The wheels are fitted wîth low profile 215/45R17 tires and have a custom offset, which increases track width yet maintains the car's low rolling resistance. Track-tuned lowering springs lower the vehicle 1.1 inches in the front and 1.3 inches in the rear to enhance §teering response and improved cornering ability. A tuned rear sway bar helps reduce body lean for flatter cornering.
Eco-Icon
The Toyota Prius – now synonymous wîth 'hybrid' – entered the market in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid. The company's exclusive Hybrid Synergy Drive System was introduced in 2004 on the second-generation Prius. The Prius helped boost public awareness for the automobile's role in the environment, specifically putting a focus on improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
The current Prius extends its record of continuous improvement in fuel economy. The first-generation Prius was estimated at 41 EPA combined MPG, and the second-generation model achieved a 46 MPG EPA combined rating. Toyota increased fuel efficiency for the third-generation Prius to an EPA estimated 51 MPG in city driving, 48 MPG highway and a combined 50 MPG. Mileage is especially improved in cold-start conditions and at higher speeds.
Hybrid Synergy Drive
The Prius is built using processes that reduce emissions in every stage of the vehicle lifecycle, from production and driving, through to eventual disposal and dismantling years down the road.
A 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine produces 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. Together wîth its electric motor, the hybrid system generates a combined 134 net horsepower. Due to the unique way that Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive combines the power of the gasoline engine and electric motor, the driver experiences a feeling of torque in the Prius that makes it feel even more powerful than the output numbers suggest.Úse of an electric water pump and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system also contributes to the engine's efficiency. The 1.8-liter Prius engine was the first Toyota powerplant that requires no accessory drive belts, helping enhance powertrain efficiency and also potentially reducing maintenance costs.
Prius has been an uncompromised 'full' hybrid since its introduction. This means it can run on the gasoline engine alone, battery alone, or a combination of both. The Hybrid Synergy Drive was completely re-engineered for the third-generation Prius, wîth lighter, more efficient components.
The 2012 Prius offers four driving modes ('Normal,' 'Power,' Eco' and 'EV'). The EV Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds for about a mile, if conditions permit. Power Mode increases sensitivity to throttle input for a sportier feel; Eco Mode helps drivers achieve the best mileage. A multi-information display panel that monitors fuel and energy consumption is standard. It provides feedback on the Prius' efficiency using three different displays to help the driver adopt economical driving habits.The 2012 Prius is certified as a Super Últra Low Emission Vehicle (SÚLEV) and an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in California, as well as those states applying California emission standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) The AT-PZEV certification requires the SÚLEV exhaust standard linked wîth the ability to meet a zero-fuel-evaporative standard, a 150,000-mile durability demonstration, extended emissions system warranty, and technology deemed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to advance future fuel cell vehicles. In the rest of the country, Prius is certified as Tier 2, Bin 3.
Trend-Setting Design
The Prius' design, by itself, has come to represent 'hybrid' in the eyes of many. The 106.3-inch wheelbase helps to give the Prius a smooth ride and the interior room of a midsize sedan. (concept carz) Weight was saved through use of aluminum for the hood, rear hatch, front stabilizer bar and brake calipers and by using super high-tensile strength steel in the inner rocker panel, center pillar and roof reinforcement.
The third-generation Prius received more hours of wind tunnel testing than any other Toyota in history, resulting in one of the cleanest aerodynamic profiles of any mass-produced vehicle in the world. By focusing on the shape of the body, underfloor, wheelhouse liner and wheel face design, the designers reduced the coefficient of drag (Cd) value to 0.25, one of the lowest for any production car.
LEDs (light emitting diodes), optional in low beam headlamps and standard in DRLs, tail and stop lamps, help reduce the vehicle's power consumption. An exhaust heat recirculation system reduces heat waste by warming engine coolant during cold startup, for improved performance. It also heats up the passenger cabin more efficiently.
Interior Design
Viewed from the cockpit, the center cluster smoothly flows from the instrument panel to the console. Simple, fin-type air vents and judicious use of silver accents add a finished, technical feel. A space-saving contoured front-seat design maximizes rear seat legroom.
The available Touch Tracer Display features touch sensors on the §teering wheel switches that are designed to reduce driver eye movement for better concentration on the road. When the driver touches the audio or trip switch located on the §teering wheel, a duplicate image is displayed on the instrument panel, directly in front of the driver. Touch Tracer was the first display system in the world to allow §teering wheel controls to display in the instrument panel.
In pursuit of new technologies for sustainable mobility, Toyota uses plant-derived, carbon-neutral plastics in the third-generation Prius. Known as 'ecological plastic,' the new material is used in the seat cushion foam, cowl side trim, inner and outer scuff plates, and deck trim cover. Ecological plastic emits less CO2 during the production process than conventional plastic; it also helps reduce petroleum use.
Safety
The new Prius was designed to comply wîth class-top level collision safety performance in each global sales region, and to accommodate increasingly strict safety requirements in the future. In addition to a driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, front and rear side curtain airbags, driver and passenger front seat-mounted side airbags and driver's knee airbag are standard equipment.
Active headrests are used in both front seats to help reduce the possibility of whiplash injury in a rear collision. An Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and the Smart Stop Technology brake-override system make up Toyota's standard Star Safety System™. A Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. Also available is Safety Connect, which includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator, emergency assistance button (SOS) and roadside assistance (1-year trial subscription included).
Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion wîth no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter wîth converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. In applicable states hybrid-related component coverage is 15 years/150,000 miles wîth the exception of the hybrid battery, which is warranted for 10 years/150,000 miles. The Prius will also come standard wîth Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.Source - Toyota
| Volkswagen Of America Reports April Sales | |
| - April sales total 33,644 units delivered- • April sales total 33,644 units, representing an 10.3 percent decrease versus the prior year • Chattanooga-built Passat delivered 9,069 units for the month, 30.8 percent TDI® Clean Diesel • Jetta Sedan achieved 11,110 sales in April • Best year-to-date sales of Tiguan with 10,439 units delivered through April and 2,488 for the month • High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 21.7 percent of sales in April and 21.5 percent of sales ...[Read more...] | |
| 2014 Corvette Stingray Starts At $51,995 | |
 | The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license. 'The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet's mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,' said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. 'The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology t...[Read more...] |
| Kia Motors Announces Pricing For All-New 2014 Cadenza Premium Sedan | |
 | Kia's Flagship Sedan Offers Premium Amenities at a Starting Price of $35,1001 MSRP
• The most powerful and technologically advanced Kia in the U.S. market is defined by European-influenced styling and extraordinary levels of refinement and amenities
• Cadenza features class-leading interior room2 and is offered in one trim level with two available option packages IRVINE, Calif., April 19, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) is pleased to announce pricing for its most powerful and ...[Read more...] |
| VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS BEST HIGHWAY FUEL EFFICIENCY, WITH SEVEN MODELS THAT ACHIEVE MORE THAN 40 MPG | |
 | • New Jetta Hybrid earns EPA fuel economy rating of up to 48 mpg; the first compact hybrid available with a turbocharged engine Herndon, VA - With EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 48 mpg on the highway, 42 mpg in the city, and a combined rating of 45 mpg, the Jetta Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the Volkswagen lineup and the seventh model capable of more than 40 mpg on the highway. With sales of the Jetta Hybrid beginning later this month, Volkswagen wil...[Read more...] |
| Ford Celebrates Production Launch of the Only Front-Wheel- Drive Hybrid Transmission To Be Made in North America | |
| •Ford's Van Dyke Transmission Plant adds hybrid transmission capacity thanks to a new, flexible assembly line supporting Ford C-MAX Hybrid, C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, Fusion Hybrid, Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid •Ford adds 225 new jobs at Van Dyke Transmission, bringing jobs in-house while helping deliver on its commitment to provide customers the power of choice for fuel-efficient vehicles •Ford and its suppliers invest $220 million to transform Van Dyke Transmission a...[Read more...] | |
2012| Similar Vehicles | |
 | 2012 Toyota Prius c |
| Comparable Vehicles | |
| Buick LaCrosse | ($26,495-33,265) |
| Buick Regal GS | ($26,245-28,745) |
| Buick Verano | ($22,585-25,965) |
| Chevrolet Malibu | ($21,995-30,085) |
| Chevrolet Silverado | ($21,945-49,195) |
| Dodge Avenger R/T | : |
| Dodge Charger | ($25,495-45,795) |
| Dodge Charger Pursuit | ($25,495-45,795) |
| Ford Fusion Hybrid | ($26,280-26,280) |
| Ford Taurus | ($26,600-39,200) |
| Honda Accord | ($21,380-36,340) |
| Honda Civic Hybrid | : |
| Honda Civic Si | ($22,355-22,555) |
| Kia Optima Hybrid | ($25,700-26,500) |
| Mitsubishi Galant | ($21,889-24,299) |
| Mitsubishi i-MiEV | : |
| Toyota Camry | ($21,955-29,845) |
| Volkswagen GTI | ($23,695-31,635) |
| Volvo C30 | ($24,700-27,100) |
| Similar Automakers | |
| Honda | Jaguar |
| Nissan | Saab |
| Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Volvo | |
| Toyota: 2011-2020 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Toyota History |
| Other models by Toyota |
| Manufacturer Website |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2000 GT 4Runner Avalon Camry | Celica Coaster Corolla Corona | FJ Cruiser GT-One GT86 Highlander | Land Cruiser Land Cruiser 40 Series Land Cruiser 70 Matrix | MR2 Prius RAV4 Sequoia | Sienna Starlet Supra Tacoma | Tundra Venza Yaris |
| 2011 Prius C&A Custom Concept | 2011 Prius PLUS Performance Package | 2011 Prius | 2011 Prius a | 2013 Prius |
