First look Toyota Prius

Australia’s favourite car brand went all sparky to open the action at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show.

Toyota revealed the all-new Prius and a concept version of its local Camry hybrid as it put the focus on the future.

The Prius will be in showrooms before the end of the year and the Camry hybrid will be in production at Toyota Australia’s factory at Altona in Melbourne in 2010.

The two cars helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of Toyota Australia, although company president Max Yasuda said it would be one of the toughest in its history.

“Our short-term focus is to weather the storm. (But) even in these tough time, Toyota will continue to invest in our long-term vision,” Yasuda said.

“By 2020, Toyota intends to offer a hybrid variant for each model in our vast range. The momentum is building. Hybrid technology is the future.”

The 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show...