New Prius to Produce 70 Percent Fewer Smog-Forming Emissions

US version of Toyota Prius

We already knew that the third generation Prius was going to be one of the most advanced models ever produced but Toyota simply wants to refresh our memory every once in a while. So today the Japanese automaker rolled out a new press statement praising the upcoming Prius but, more importantly, it also debuted some important specs concerning the new model.

First of all, the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius provides a combined EPA estimated fuel efficiency rating of 50 mpg, mostly thanks to the top-notch hybrid system it includes. Secondly, it boasts an impressive lineup of features, including moonroof with solar panels – especially aimed at producing alternative electricity -, four driving modes, Intelligent Parking assist and steering-wheel mounted touch controls easier access while driving.

"The Prius has evolved with our customers over the past 10 years and is now more things to more people," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "It's environmental, innovative, and practical. It's an everyday car for everyday use, and when it goes on sale a few months from now, we believe that its new features will appeal to returning owners, while at the same time attract buyers who are looking for innovative technology with a hybrid powertrain."

And even if it provides such an advanced fuel economy, this doesn't necessarily mean that the automaker ignored engine performance. The 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder unit will produce a maximum output of 98 horsepower while together with the hybrid system the overall power achieves 134 hp.

"The 1.8-liter Prius engine is the first Toyota power plant that requires no belts under the hood for better fuel economy and less potential maintenance,” the Japanese automaker said the statement for the press.

Another thing worth mentioning is that Toyota claims the new Prius will produce 70 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle, which does nothing more than to underline Toyota's efforts to cut polluting models and concentrate on environmentally friendly-models.

While we're not going to talk about the equipment levels included in the new Prius range (Toyota repeatedly mentioned them with every single occasion), here are the optional packages, as presented by the Japanese automaker:

• A Navigation Package available on Prius models III, IV, and V, includes a voice-activated touch-screen DVD navigation system with a JBL AM/FM/four-CD changer with integrated XM satellite radio, MP3/WMA playback capability, hands-free phone capability via Bluetooth wireless technology, eight speakers and a backup camera.
• A Solar Roof Package, available in Prius models III and IV, includes all contents in the Navigation Package, a power tilt/slide moonroof with a solar powered ventilation system and a remote air conditioning system.
• An Advanced Technology Package, available in Prius model V, includes all contents in the Navigation Package; a Pre-Collision System; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Lane Keep Assist (LKA); and IPA.

There is no pricing information at this point, but Toyota says new details will be rolled out closer to the official launch date.