The 2001 Toyota Prius, the world's first production hybrid car, had arrived, and it would profoundly change the trajectory of automotive propulsion evolution.

Over the next two decades, Toyota would go on to sell more than 6 million Prius vehicles worldwide and more than 3.6 million total hybrid models (including Lexus) in the US. Toyota Prius sales in the US reached 1.9 million through 2019, and the model name became synonymous with hybrid technology. (The original Prius went into production for the Japanese market in 1997.)

And so, Toyota is marking the special anniversary of the groundbreaking Prius, the foundational car of its global hybrid leadership, by offering the Prius 2020 Edition for model year 2021. Toyota will offer 2,020 of these special models, based on the well-equipped XLE FWD grade. Available in a choice of Supersonic Red or the new Wind Chill Pearl, the 2020 Edition features striking black exterior trim and unique features, including a color-keyed rear spoiler.

The 2020 Edition model includes black inserts for the 17-inch alloy wheels, blackout headlight components and trim, B-pillars and mirror housings. Unique to the Prius 2020 Edition are a ‘2020’ insignia key glove/fob and floor mats, as well as black shift knob and interior A-pillar trim and smoked HVAC vents.

The overall look is both sporty and elegant, with just a touch of mischief. But there's nothing mischievous about a car rated at a manufacturer preliminary-estimated 54 city MPG / 50 highway MPG / 52 combined MPG and equipped as standard with one of the auto industry's most advanced driver-assist safety systems.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0

The Prius, which already had Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) standard, steps up to the more capable TSS 2.0 for 2021. This latest version of the critical safety system includes: Pre-Collision System with Low-Light Pedestrian Detection; Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Bicyclist Detection; Lane Departure Alert; Automatic High Beams and Road Sign Assist.

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection is designed to offer automatic braking capability, under certain conditions, should the driver not react in time in an emergency situation. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Intelligent Parking Assist are also standard.

Also for 2021, all but the Prius Limited add Android Auto compatibility. (Apple CarPlay compatibility was already standard on 2020 Prius models.)

The Prius mission was right in its name; it is Latin for “first” or “original,” and can also mean “to go before.” Now, look at all the hybrids that have come since.

The Prius is one of 10 Toyota hybrid models, and one of 11 electrified vehicles with Mirai, a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV), available for 2021. Others include the first-ever Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Avalon Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4 Prime and Prius Prime.

The Shape of Progress

The unique design cheats the wind with an ultra-low 0.24 coefficient of drag. An automatic grille shutter reduces aerodynamic drag by closing when airflow to the radiator is not needed.

Standard Bi-LED headlamps and LED rear combination lamps not only provide better light than halogens, but they also reduce energy consumption and give a longer service life. A full-width glass panel beneath the rear spoiler aids rearward visibility while also serving as a distinctive Prius design feature.

The foundation of Prius efficiency is the Toyota Hybrid System II. It operates much in the same fashion as the original hybrid system in the 2001 Prius, but is more compact, more powerful, and more fuel-efficient. In the Prius, the system combines the output of a high-efficiency 1.8-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine with that of two motor-generators through an electronically controlled planetary-type continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The advanced Power Control Unit is the key to extracting the greatest efficiency from the powertrain. In most situations, the Prius launches on battery power alone and then seamlessly starts the gas engine and blends its output once underway, turning it off when its power is not needed.

Thanks to ultra-low internal friction and efficient combustion, the Prius gasoline engine exceeds 40 percent thermal efficiency. The air conditioning system, which uses a quiet electric compressor, works intelligently to maximize energy efficiency, with the Smart-flow (S-FLOW) mode directing airflow only to seated occupants to conserve energy.

The Prius XLE grade on which the 2020 Edition model is based comes standard with 17-in. alloy wheels, Safety Connect; heated, SofTex-trimmed 8-way power driver's seat; SofTex-trimmed heated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; 3-door Smart Key system with Push Button Start; remote illuminated entry, rear wiper, and Qi wireless phone charging tray that accommodates larger phones.

The standard Toyota Audio system includes a 7-in. touch-screen display; 6 speakers; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility; auxiliary audio jack, one USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and two 2.1-amp USB charge ports; advanced voice recognition; Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming; Siri Eyes Free, and an integrated backup camera display.

All Prius models share the familiar central screen interface, a signature feature in every Prius since the original. The 4.2-in. color Dual Multi-Information Display with customizable screens includes Energy Monitor and Hybrid System Indicator with Eco Score, Eco Savings Record, Drive Monitor, Eco Wallet, and Eco Diary features, plus displays for climate control, driver support systems, audio system content, and the navigation system.

First Generation - A Huge Leap in Fuel Efficiency

That original Prius combined output of a 70-hp gas engine and 44-hp electric drive motor. A second electric motor-generator served as the starter for the gas engine and also generated electricity for the drive motor and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack.

The first Prius achieved EPA estimated 42 city MPG / 41 highway MPG / 41 combined MPG. The higher figure for city driving reflected the hybrid powertrain making greatest use of the battery and electric motor in urban driving. The first Prius also used an auto stop/start system to shut off the gas engine at stoplights under certain circumstances. Such systems have since become commonplace, including for non-hybrids.

Second-Generation: A Huge Leap in Everything

A new brake-by-wire system improved regeneration and brake feel. A new air conditioning system used an electric compressor, which allowed it to operate without the gas engine running. Even with its gain in power and larger body for the second-generation model, its combined fuel economy jumped by 12 percent to 46 MPG.

Third Generation: 50 MPG and a New Family

The Prius marked its 10th anniversary in the US with an all-new third generation model, gaining more power and higher fuel efficiency. Its 50 combined MPG was a new milestone. This generation also brought new models, including the first Prius Plug-in Hybrid, a new compact Prius c for under USD 20,000 and a new, larger Prius v with crossover-like room and versatility. Prius models began offering Pre-Collision Braking and other advanced safety tech.

Fourth Generation: More Choices, Higher Efficiency

Based on the Toyota New Global Architecture-K platform (TNGA-K), the fourth-generation Prius is the most efficient and quietest in its history. The fourth-gen Prius introduced the top-of-line Prius Prime plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the Prius L ECO, and the Prius AWD-e model with all-wheel drive. (MT)

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Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has reported its financial results for Q3 FY2026.

The company reported revenue of INR 475.344 billion, as against INR 368.02 billion last year, net profit came at INR 37.94 billion, as against INR 36.59 billion last year. It is to be noted that the net profit was impacted for Q3 FY2026 was impacted due to a one-time provision of INR 5,939 million relating to new Labour Codes.

During the period, the company achieved its highest quarterly domestic sales of 564,669 units, an increase of 97,676 units over the previous year. Total sales reached 667,769 units, which included 103,100 units in exports. This performance was supported by a recovery in the car market following GST reform, with the small car segment in the 18 percent GST bracket contributing significantly to the volume increase.

For the nine-month period from April to December 2025, the company recorded its highest sales volume, net sales and net profit. Total sales volume reached 1,746,504 units, with domestic sales at 1,435,945 units and exports at 310,559 units. Net sales for this period increased to INR 1,242 billion, while net profit grew to INR 1,085 billion.

Financial statements for the period have been restated following the amalgamation of Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) with MSIL. This process took effect from 1 April 2025. The company continues to monitor market conditions as it manages its manufacturing and sales operations.

The recovery in the car market was led by the small car segment. Sales growth in this category accounted for 68,328 units of the total domestic increase. The company remains focused on domestic and export markets to maintain its sales volumes.

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Volkswagen Passenger Cars India has showcased the Tayron R-Line, marking the first of five product interventions scheduled for 2026.

The company plans to introduce updates or new models in every quarter to maintain market presence. These interventions will include SUV, Sedan and Hatchback body styles, with each model intended for different segments of the premium market.

For 2026, the company stated it has established objectives focused on products, customer engagement and experiences. The strategy involves using product actions to address various customer sets throughout the year. The brand aims to sustain interest through these quarterly releases across its vehicle portfolio.

The roadmap for the year is designed to cover multiple segments, ensuring a consistent rollout of updates. By addressing three body styles, the manufacturer intends to reach a broad audience within the premium category. The initiative forms part of a wider plan to enhance the ownership experience and interaction with the brand in India.

Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, “Today, we are glad to showcase the Tayron R-Line for the first time in India. I am also delighted to announce that we have planned four more product interventions throughout the year. This year, every quarter will witness a new product intervention that will cater to a different premium customer set. Our objective is to continue building excitement for customers through smart product actions and introducing models that will continue to build aspirations.”

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Renault India has revealed the new generation Duster in Chennai, marking the return of the nameplate to the Indian market. The vehicle is the first product launched under the Renault International Game Plan 2027, a strategy positioning India as a hub for the company's operations outside Europe.

The SUV is built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), with 90 percent of its components designed specifically for the Indian market. The vehicle features a 2,657 mm wheelbase and 212 mm of ground clearance, with approach and departure angles of 26.9deg and 34.7deg respectively.

The Duster introduces three engine options, including a hybrid variant for the first time in India. The Strong Hybrid E-Tech 160 pairs a 1.8L engine with a 1.4 kWh battery, designed to operate in electric mode for a claimed up to 80 percent of city driving.

Two petrol options are also available: the Turbo TCe 160, producing 163 PS and 280 Nm of torque and the Turbo TCe 100. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with a wet clutch.

The cabin features a driver-centric layout with a 10.1-inch OpenR Link multimedia system. This system incorporates Google built-in, providing native access to Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. A second 10.25-inch TFT display serves as the instrument cluster, capable of replicating navigation data.

Additional interior features include:

• Ventilated and electric front seats.
• Dual-zone automatic air conditioning with a PM2.5 air quality filter.
• Panoramic sunroof and electric tailgate.
• 17 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) functions.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO, Renault Brand, said, “As part of the Renault International Game Plan 2027, we are making India a key pillar of our growth outside Europe. We now have a strong ecosystem in Chennai, bringing together design, engineering, manufacturing, and local operations at the highest level - making India one of the most complete and powerful hubs in Renault’s global network. The new Renault Duster is the first step in Renault’s renewal in India.”

Stephane Deblaise, CEO, Renault Group India, added, “With the new Renault Group Modular Platform, Renault brings an advanced hybrid technology and top-tier safety engineering. With Renault Forever program, we also offer our customers a significantly improved ownership experience. New Renault Duster is the start of a renewed product cycle and for an exciting trajectory for Renault in India. Renault is back.”

The vehicle comes with an industry first 7-year or 150,000 km warranty under the Renault Forever programme. Pre-bookings are open via the 'R Pass', with official pricing expected in mid-March 2026. Deliveries for petrol variants will commence in April 2026, while the Strong Hybrid version is scheduled for release during Diwali 2026.

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Stellantis-owned electric vehicle brand Leapmotor recently showcased its new range of product offerings at the Brussels Motor Show.

The OEM utilised the platform to display its latest vehicle technologies and models as part of an expansion strategy within the European market. The lineup featured both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) equipped with range extenders.

The event saw the European debut of the B03X, a model designed to showcase the brand's approach to electric technology. Additionally, Leapmotor provided the first public viewing of the B05 interior, highlighting a design philosophy focused on digital integration and materials.

Leapmotor launched the B10 Hybrid EV, which employs a range extender system. Unlike conventional hybrids where the internal combustion engine frequently powers the wheels directly, this architecture uses the electric motor as the sole source of propulsion. The engine serves as a generator to produce electricity for the battery when required and is never mechanically connected to the drivetrain.

This configuration is intended to provide the torque and noise levels of a pure electric vehicle while addressing infrastructure limitations and range anxiety. The system manages energy automatically, allowing for long-distance travel without a reliance on fast-charging stations. Leapmotor positions this solution as a practical transition for regions with varying levels of electrification readiness.

In a standard HEV, the engine drives the wheels, with the electric motor acting in a supporting role. Conversely, Leapmotor's system maintains a consistent electric driving experience because the engine does not provide mechanical drive.

By removing the mechanical complexity of traditional hybrid drivetrains that switch between multiple modes, the company claims a more refined operation. The range extender is designed to operate only in ideal conditions to optimise efficiency and reduce noise.

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