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Will There Be an All-Wheel Drive Prius?

Jan 19, 2016

Next month, Toyota will be debuting something big: the 2016 Prius will be the first car in Toyota’s lineup to feature something called the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. TNGA will become the standard, global platform for all Toyota cars and SUV’s over the next several years. What this means is that, by 2020, the Camry, Corolla, Prius, Yaris, Avalon, RAV4, and Highlander will all run on the same platform, with interchangeable components such as the drivetrain. The implications for this change are huge; it would make it feasible to have an AWD Prius and Camry, for example.

The other major benefit to this strategy is that is allows Toyota to increase its economies of scale across its global supply chain. Because Toyota will just be building TNGA platforms instead of Camry platforms, Prius platforms, RAV4 platforms, etc., Toyota will be able to buy the materials and component parts and assemble them into TNGA platforms in a more cost-effective manner. Toyota is ever mindful of the fuel efficiency requirements under the new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, and this new platform will play a role in helping Toyota achieve its goals

The very first nameplate to feature TNGA will be the 2016 Prius, which arrives next month. The 2016 Prius Prius has a more modern look, complemented by striking body lines; the creases in the rear fenders and doors are particularly elegant. The Prius remains very aerodynamic, and is rated at 54 mpg on the base model, and 58 mpg on the Prius Two Eco trim level! With a starting MSRP of $25,260, the Prius will compete directly with mid-size sedans that only get around 35 mpg.