New Concept Toyota Prius 2009Although our spy photo shows an evolutionary shape, it doesn’t represent the final design. It was one of three designs Toyota was considering, but we’ve heard the final decision went to a more conservatively styled Prius more along the lines of the Hybrid X shown in Geneva this year.
Toyota officials have said recently that they hope to bring down the cost premium of hybrids while continuing to improve their efficiency. With new less-hybrid-friendly EPA testing procedures, the 2009 Prius may not show huge gains in its stated fuel economy figures, but its real-world numbers should improve beyond the current 40-45mpg range.
