Toyota is setting the stage for an epic battle in Europe. The hybrid vehicle leader is getting ready to launch the all-new 2012 Prius Plug-in across the pond, and when it goes on sale in the UK, it will priced the same as the all-electric Nissan Leaf after rebates.
Nissan Maryland tells us that both vehicles are capable of providing emissions-free driving, but the Prius Plug-in can run under electric power for just 15 at speeds up to 62 mph. The Leaf on the other hand can go nearly 100 miles on a full charge. Nevertheless, Toyota says that drivers of the Prius Plug-in will not need to suffer from “range anxiety” since the vehicle can switch seamlessly between electric and full hybrid propulsion.
Ewan Shepherd, General Manager Toyota/Lexus Fleet Services said: “Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be an exciting and valuable addition to what is already an industry-leading Toyota range that delivers significant financial benefits to companies and company car drivers with advanced and highly efficient models such as Prius and the British-built Auris Hybrid.”
In real-world driving, the Prius Plug-in delivers greater flexibility, thanks to the combination of an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, and a gasoline engine. With pricing that’s on par with that of the Leaf, Chicago Toyota thinks it may be a more attractive option for buyers looking to get the cleanest and most efficient vehicle they can get their hands on.
Here in the Unites States, the match-up is a little different. The 2012 Prius Plug-in starts at $32,000 at Nissan Dealership MA before any applicable rebates and jumps to $39,525 for the range-topping Advanced version. Meanwhile, the 2012 Nissan Leaf will be priced from $35,200 and the uplevel SL can be had for $37,250. With the available $7,500 federal tax credit, consumers can get the base Leaf SV model for around $27,700. This battle will undoubtedly play out slightly differently than the ongoing battle between the Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt.