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Toyota launches the Prius C hatchback next month in Australia, but admits demand in Japan means supplies of what it calls the most affordable hybrid car on the market will be tight this year.
Sales and Marketing Executive Director Matthew Callachor says the Prius C already is a hit in its home market of Japan, with Toyota holding orders for more than 120,000 of the subcompacts – 10 times the monthly sales target.
The initial allocation of the hybrid model for Australia had not been affected, but Callachor says the overwhelming demand in Japan likely will limit supplies throughout 2012.
He says in a statement the Prius C will have an advantage in the “thousands of dollars” over the A$29,990 ($31,900) price of the best-priced rival hybrid car in Australia. It will bring Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology to a new segment of buyers at a more affordable price.
“In addition to its price advantage, (the) Prius C will deliver more power, better fuel economy and more relaxed cruising from its bigger 1.5L petrol (gasoline) engine and electric motor,” Callachor says.
The Prius V, a station-wagon derivative of the original Prius liftback, is due to be released in Australia in the second quarter.
