KEY POINTS
- Toyota unveils revised Avensis range with improved styling, quality, powertrains and driving dynamics
- Updated Prius joined by Prius Plug-in and Prius+, Europe’s first full hybrid seven-seat vehicle
- New-look 2012 Hilux and three-door version of new Yaris also on show
Toyota will present several new models at this year’s Frankfurt motor show this week (13 September) with world premieres for both the new Avensis and the new Prius family of full hybrid models. The new Hilux (already available in South Africa) will be making its European debut and the three-door version of the recently launched new Yaris will be on public view for the first time.
The changes to the British-built Avensis include revised exterior styling, incorporating a frontal treatment that follows Toyota’s new design language. The quality look and feel of the interior has been improved and strategic changes have been made to the powertrains and driving dynamics. Together, these changes represent the largest mid-life investment Toyota has made for any model.
With more than 2.3 million worldwide sales, Prius’s success story is well established. At Frankfurt a new chapter will open with the world-first introduction of the new Prius family of models. Toyota’s full hybrid model has been updated and is joined by the production version of Prius Plug-in Hybrid and the seven-seat Prius+. The introduction of these models will make Prius the first full hybrid to be offered as a complete, stand-alone model range.
Each new model has been developed to expand the Prius customer base by catering for specific customer needs. Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the most technically advanced Prius yet, with CO2 emissions potentially as low as 49g/km. Prius+ will deliver sub-100g/km CO2 emissions and is the first vehicle in Europe to offer the versatility of seven seats with the benefit of a full hybrid powertrain.
The new Hilux, Europe’s best-selling pick-up, has undergone major upgrade, reinforcing its credentials as a vehicle cut out for hard work and for leisure driving. The exterior changes are complemented by a new-look interior that offers the comfort and convenience of a passenger car.
Completing the new Toyota arrivals at Frankfurt is the three-door version of new Yaris, making its public debut.
