Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Toyota Prius (ZVW30) Facelift

2012 Toyota Prius

When the third-generation Toyota Prius was launched in May 2009, this third-generation model is remarkably an evolution of the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. Now, after being on service for two years, the third-generation Prius deserved a mid-life facelift to keep it updated for the road ahead. Well, it's a start.

The facelifted Prius is now gaining a new exterior design. Expect a new front bumper, front grille, under grille, rear combination lamp, 15-inch rims, and a new rear view that makes this third-generation different from the previous model.


2012 Toyota Prius interior


Inside, the shift knob and the steering switch base is now paneled in silver and there are new seat colors available, especially two-tones such as "Blue & Black" and "Brown and Black". Once more, the instrumental panel's now change to something more vivid and colorful for added accessibility but still, this is the same Prius interior from before.

No changes on the 2ZR-FXE engine that produces 99PS of power and 142Nm of torque. The power output can be increased into 136PS if the 60kW 3JM electric motor is active. It still uses the Nickel Metal Hydride Battery for EV Mode purposes only. As for the fuel economy, nothing's changed and still remains the 32.6km/L JC08 fuel economy at the entry level 1.8 L variant while most models remain the 30.4km/L JC08 fuel economy.

Pre-Crash Safety System is available for the new Prius as this system provides safe braking in an event when this car approaches the car's behind. There is also Radar Cruise Control that maintains speed while cruising on the highway, Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control, Antilock Brake System, Traction Control, Hill Start Control, and the new Pedestrian Warning system that emits noise on incoming passengers, especially the approaching blind.

Available in eight colors;Super White II, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Black, Red Mica Metallic, Bordeaux Mica Metallic, Frosty Green Mica, and Light Purple Mica Metallic.

My comment:
The third-generation Prius' minor change has the same Prius experience with the new look, just to keep this new model updated after the third-generation was released since May 2009. As of now, there are so many Prius models roaming around the streets of Japan and this new model will drive sales even further but how can it keep up because it was heavily affected by the March 11 disaster and the Thai flooding?

Sales for the facelifted Prius starts this December 19, 2011 at all Toyota dealers across Japan.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

1 comment:

SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION said...

Prius has many features like it provides superior handling, security and constancy. Weight saving of car is achieved by applying lightweight aluminum and high tensile steel for building of a car. Prius for sale is also known as series –parallel vehicle because it can run on both with petrol and electric power. It uses newest art technology so it is called superior automobile. It is well appreciated and perfect model to save your money. Availability of many colors makes it perfect in looking.