Even though it looks like the dog's dinner, we're starting to dig the new Toyota Prius. It does many things a little better than the previous models and features systems other manufacturers haven't even considered yet. For example, Toyota tweaked the suspension so that the nose stays flat under acceleration. But the most interesting system is the optional E-Four, a 4WD system that uses an electric motor mounted between the rear wheels together with a low-range single-speed gearbox.
Japan has always struggled with snow, but there has never been an all-weather Prius… until now. Instead of compromising the habitat by using a prop shaft, Toyota engineered the E-Four system, but had to re-design the rear suspension around it.
For now, Toyota USA has not confirmed or denied the availability of this system. But we think videos like these will twist its hand. The first one is a live demo filmed by Impress Japan at a press event. It shows the difference between a 2WD and 4WD Prius on a slippery patch of road.
The rear electric motor can work at up to 70 km/h, but it only activates when it senses the front wheels are struggling. As you can see, the system is great for off-the-line acceleration, but we think tires play an equally important part after that.
Remember the saying "you can't have your cake and eat it"? Well, it also applies here. The new Prius just went on sale in Japan today, so full specs are now available. Not only does the E-Four system cost extra, but it has a profound effect on the economy.
In Japan's upside down fuel consumption system, the cleanest model called Prius E gets 40.8 kilometers per liter of fuel (2.45 l/100km or 96 mpg US). All the other 2WD models offer 37.2 km/l (2.69 l/100km or 87.4 mpg), while the E-Four gets 34.0 km/h (2.94 l/100km 80 mpg).
Price? Well, E-Four adds about 195,000 yen to all the trim levels, which is equivalent to about $1,600 at today's exchange rate.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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