The test runs of the 2016 Toyota Prius has been going on for quite some time now and latest spy shots of the vehicle was that it was spotted in Southern California recently. Although it was well-camouflaged, the contours and the lines beneath the sticker covering of the vehicle indicate that it is undoubtedly a Prius.
The snapped photos of the camouflaged test car showed a rounded nose, a very high tail with a sharply vertical Kamm back for good aerodynamic characteristics, and relatively small wheels and tires, details Green Car Reports.
Apart from being sportier than the current model in terms of design, handling, and grip, the 2016 Toyota Prius is 10% more fuel-efficient too, which means it has a remarkable EPA combined fuel efficiency rating of 55 miles per gallon.
The Japanese carmaker also announced a few months ago that the 2016 Toyota Prius will have a 38% thermal efficiency from a gasoline engine under certain running conditions.
The 2016 Toyota Prius is the fourth generation of the world’s most number of manufactured and moved hybrid-electric vehicles, with more than five million units sold since it was launched exclusively in Japan back in 1997.
The hybrid vehicle should be expected to debut this fall either at the Tokyo Motor Show in September of the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Production of the hybrid vehicle is said to start in Japan in December this year.
The two-motor hybrid system will certainly be the next generation of the long-standing Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive. There will also be a plug-in hybrid version, though it is likely to be released by next year yet.
No last minute redesign
While there have been some reports saying that there will be a delay in the official roll out of the 2016 Toyota Prius to accommodate a last second redesign, it appears that Toyota CEO Jim Lentz has quashed the speculations by confirming that consumes will no longer have to wait long to see the next generation Prius.
But the Toyota executive still did not specify the exact date for the release of the 2016 Toyota Prius, only saying that it would be unveiled very soon.
There are also reports that new Prius will not go into production until October 2016 during which it will come out already with wireless inductive charging capability and possibly a recharging plug.
Lenz also disclosed that he has had the opportunity to test drive the 2016 Toyota Prius and he says it was a fantastic experience for him.
He added that lower center of gravity of the 2016 Toyota Prius will make it quite superb and remarkable in handling that goes well with the hybrid vehicle’s stylish new design.
Overly optimistic
The Toyota CEO also confirmed that the next generation Prius will have better fuel economy than its current model but the initial reports of a 15% improvement over the current rating is bit on the overly optimistic side.