The AWD Toyota Prius 2016 launched in Japan but it's reportedly not hitting the US market anytime soon.
In its home market, the new Prius can be equipped with an E-Four AWD system. But according to Automotive News, Toyota won't be offering the options to US consumers.
Reportedly, the Japanese automaker doesn't see much demand for an AWD Prius. Moreover, they haven't even tested the hybrid in cold conditions such as in North America.
"Of course, the real irony is, there are the types of places where consumers would probably want an all-wheel drive Prius," World Car Fans said.
That said, the bulk Prius sales are in California, "making an AWD Prius somewhat of a niche product," according to The Car Guide.
Even in Japan, the AWD Prius reportedly only make up 10 to 20 percent of total sales. The additional 70kg the system brings doesn't bode well for fuel economy as well. The $1,487 (180,000 yen) option adds an electric motor to drive the rear wheels.
"The system automatically detects snowy and slippery conditions and will send power to the rear wheels when needed," WCF said.
That said, Toyota just doesn't think selling an AWD 2016 Prius in the US would be financially viable. It's not completely abandoning the idea, however.
E-Four engineer Yoshihiro Ikushima told Automotive News the whole thing is still under consideration. There may still be hope for those holding out on an AWD version of the popular Japanese hybrid.
The 2016 Prius debuted last year and started at $24,200. Under the hood is a 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle engine, an electric motor and a battery pack. All in all, they pump out 121 hp or 90kW. Fuel economy is estimated at 54 mpg city, 50 mpg highway and 52 mpg combined.
No timeline was given on when an AWD Toyota Prius 2016 might be offered in the US.
