Toyota and Citroen raise quality in their latest models

As Toyota plans to introduce full hybrid technology across its core model range, it continues to refine the quality, performance and owner-appeal of Prius, still the world's best-known and best-selling hybrid vehicle. With over 20,000 sales in the UK to its credit since its launch in 2009, the third-generation Prius has been made an even stronger proposition.
As ever, the appeal of Prius is underpinned by its outstanding efficiency: in its latest guise it continues to deliver 89g/km CO2 emissions - the lowest level in its class - and combined cycle fuel economy of 72.4mpg (the figures for models running on 17-inch wheels remain 92g/km and 70.6mpg). The new year brings improvements inside and out. The front of the car has been given a new look, in line with Toyota's new design approach, while in the cabin there are new front seats, new upholstery and new soft-touch surfaces that combine to give a higher quality feel. Equipment levels have been raised, notably with the introduction as standard on all grades of the Toyota Touch touchscreen control system. The advanced Toyota Touch & Go Plus multimedia and navigation system is a standard feature on Prius T Spirit and an option onT3 & T4. This brings with it Bluetooth, a rear-view camera, USB port and an on-board connectivity feature that allows access to a raft of on-line information services sourced through Google Local Search using a compatible mobile phone. Extra stiffness in the bodyshell and changes to the suspension and steering column have increased comfort and steering feel. UK sales of the revised model range will begin in March, with on-the-road prices from £21,350. Later in the year Prius will grow, with the introduction of the ultra-efficient Prius Plug-in Hybrid and Prius+, the world's first seven-seat full hybrid MPV.

Citroën has introduced DS3 Ultra Prestige to its UK range just months after the model premiered at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show to celebrate DS3's ongoing sales success. Powered by a punchy THP 155 petrol engine or a fuel and CO₂ efficient e-HDi 110 diesel with Stop & Start, prices start from £20,700 and DS3 Ultra Prestige's front seats are fitted with ‘watchstrap' design seat upholstery in ‘Club' leather.
The leather itself is of a quality typically reserved for handcrafted ‘made to order' creations. A mark of the model's exceptional quality, the front seats also sport a ‘crescendo' colour effect that is entirely new to the automotive sector. Inspired by the world of fashion - and made using a process specially created for Ultra Prestige - the colour of the leather on the front seats gradually changes from white at the top of the seat back to black on the seat base. The dashboard strip is covered in ‘Alpine' white leather, embossed with the DS signature. The colour of the dials also matches the white of the interior detailing. There are ultra-thick protective mats, braided with double top-stitching in contrasting colours. As an extra touch of luxury, leather trim is also fitted to the door panels and central armrest. The DS3 THP 155 6-speed manual petrol is £20,700 and the diesel DS3 e-HDi 110 Airdream 6-speed manual costs £20,900.