Jalopnik: Not-So-Pious Prius: Toyota Looking To Super-Size Gas Engine In Next Hybrid

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Not-So-Pious Prius: Toyota Looking To Super-Size Gas Engine In Next Hybrid Model?

http://www.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2006/12/Toyota-Hybrid-Synergy-Drive-Logo.jpgAccording to a report from the Japanese newspaper Asahi Shibun, ToMoCo is looking to bring a new hybrid-only model for the 'merican market. According to the newsmag's sources, it's expected be a midsize sedan with a 2.5 to 3-liter engine, larger than the 1.5-liter the Prius currently uses to putz around in. The plan, apparently, is to add this new model to the already-on-the-market hybrid line-up, alongside it's pip-squeak Prius brother. So what's the deal -- why is Toyota looking to boost both the car size and the fuel intake of the engine? According to Asahi and Toyota, the Prius is the most popular hybrid model in the U.S. because Americans want to be seen while being green -- so, even if a new-gen Prius is less-green than the puny one currently sold, the name cache is enough to make 'em sell like hotcakes. Hmm -- higher sales of gas-guzzling SUV's, a new Tundra ton-o-fun pickup, image coming first and now cutting fuel efficiency to expand market share -- ToMoCo's becoming more and more like the 'merican manufacturers it's replacing in the sales ladder every single day! – Ray Wert

Toyota to roll out new line of hybrids [Asahi.com via AutoblogGreen]

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