Toyota Releases Test Drive Survey Results Is the New Prius Dolphin-Like!? Support Even from Photo Enthusiasts!?

■ "Prius I.D."

Toyota Motor Corporation conducted a survey of test drivers for the new Prius launched in December 2015. The data obtained from this survey has been published on the "Prius I.D." website starting January 27.

The data is compiled from over 8,000 questionnaires collected during test drive events held at approximately 5,000 Toyota dealerships nationwide starting January 9.

We compiled honest feedback from actual test drives—from overall impressions like "How was the new Prius?" and "Would you buy it?" to specific aspects like "handling/ride comfort" and "design"—regardless of whether opinions were positive or negative. This revealed unexpected traits among potential Prius buyers and candid evaluations of the new model. Among the 33 questions were unique ones like: "What kind of Prius driver would you dislike?", "How would you describe your Prius experience in a haiku?", and "What would you compare the Prius to?".

Detailed results can be viewed on the Prius I.D. website, visualized using artificial intelligence. It also links with test drive data and features big data visualization capabilities.

 

The company explains its reason for releasing test drive data: "Driven by our desire to build better cars, we re-examined car manufacturing from the ground up. We want customers to experience this firsthand. That's why we're sharing all raw feedback, positive or negative, without reservation. We want many people to feel 'I want to test drive it.'"

■ Survey Overview

・Respondents: 8,267 men and women nationwide who test-drove the new Prius

　 ・Survey Period: January 9–14, 2016

・Survey Method: Online questionnaire survey

■ "Survey Results Summary"

• 90% rated the new model as "good." Satisfied with ride comfort and design.
• You have to drive it to appreciate the new model's appeal. Those who notice the difference in driving feel compared to previous models are more likely to say "I want one!"
• The differences in the new model are felt more strongly by active groups like "outdoor enthusiasts" and "meat-eaters."
• 90% are considering purchasing the new model. "Meat-eaters" show particularly strong intent.
• Also popular among "photo enthusiasts" who actively post pictures on social media.
• The new model's appearance and design resemble a "dolphin."
  etc.

Prius I.D. Site: http://toyota.jp/prius/cp/id/