2016 Toyota Prius arrives with new design and new platform

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The car that made hybrids a reality – the Toyota Prius – arrives for 2016 as a new car with a new platform, new design and the promise of better handling and economy.

We had a first look at the 2016 Toyota Prius just last week, but now it officially arrives on the new Toyota Global Platform (TNGA), with a design clearly influenced by the Mira and the promise of improve handling and agility, economy and emissions.

Much of the improvement that come with the new Prius are thanks to the new TNGA platform, which has allowed Toyota to deliver a Prius that’s bigger, better-looking and more sophisticated, with new double wishbone suspension at the back, a lower centre of gravity, greater rigidity and the promise of a much improved car.

The design is clearly influenced by the new Mirai, with a similar front-end treatment including big swept-back headlights, blacked-out C-pillars for a floating roof effect and a tailgate spoiler. Inside is still familiar, but it’s had a bit of a titivate, including a new steering wheel and, doubtless, a more upmarket feel.

Toyota are being a bit coy about the Prius powertrain, but it seems almost certain it will retain the 1.8 litre Atkinson engine and a battery and motor which are more compact but better able to deliver. Toyota are claiming a ‘Huge Boost’ in economy.

The new Toyota Prius is set to go on sale before the end of 2015, and we should get proper details on its drivetrain as the Frankfurt debut looms.