More hybrid sales: Bigger or smaller Prius?
Portfolio of Prius hybrids by 2012
Prius derivatives galore in 2012
OK. We’ve known a whole lineup of Toyota Prius derivatives have been in the works for some time, but the Wall Street Journal has now confirmed that the US will receive both a larger and a smaller Prius by 2012 – the same year the plug-in Prius hits the streets.
So, which Prius achieves greater sales?
The larger Prius – probably the Prius MPV, or alpha Prius – is said to offer 50 percent more passenger and cargo space than the current Prius, while also offering a third row of seating. Such an offering definitely seems more American, but are Americans really ready for a larger Prius to compete with smaller SUVs and crossovers that have recently become quite hot in the US?
Since it will probably be at least twice as fuel efficient as any crossover on the road, the larger Prius could be a very compelling offering.
On the other hand, a Yaris-based hybrid offers the potential of being the by far cheapest hybrid on the market, as well as the most fuel efficient – not including plug-in hybrids of course. How low could the price go? Could it be packaged in a Scion-like way to increase share amongst younger and hipper buyers?
Since I’m already biased I’ll just say right away that I’m a big fan of the small hybrid, as my driving needs are defined by narrow surface streets, lots of congestion, hills and far too many stops signs and stop lights. Of course, I don’t represent the norm.
Regardless, if packaged and priced right, both new Prius hybrids will hit on some very interesting trends currently brewing in the auto industry: frugality and downsizing. Can’t wait to follow this sale’s story.
