With the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic keeping automotive related events down to a minimum, worldwide vehicle debuts have been a rarity over the past few months. Toyota on the other hand is trying to keep things interesting, and has revealed that it will be unveiling not one but two all new hybrid models in a live stream event on May 18th.
While the 2020 Toyota Prius 2020 Edition (a lightly spruced up version of the current Prius) is already confirmed to be a part of the event to coincide with its 20th anniversary, the Japanese auto giant is so far keeping the identity of the other two models a closely guarded secret. But some clues have emerged through various sources, with some of them pointing at the Sienna minivan as one of the hybrids. The next generation Sienna has been spotted testing on several occasions, and with the Chrysler Pacifica currently being the only hybrid minivan for sale, it would only make sense for Toyota to try and steal some of its domestic rival’s thunder with a hybridized variant. The Sienna could also use its green technology as a broader marketing tool, especially if it comes with a diverse arsenal of technology.
The other model is decidedly more mysterious, but a separate batch of rumors suggests that the Venza nameplate could be revived. When we last met the Venza, it was a gasoline powered CUV that tried to appeal to Toyota’s older buyers. But while the Venza did manage to build up an impressive cult of personality, it wasn’t enough to make it stand out from the rest of Toyota’s SUV lineup. This chapter of Venza would be produced in Alabama, with the model projected to be on sale for the 2022 model year. Production would start late in 2021, and various sources suggest that the Venza would be a hybrid exclusive affair with no traditional gasoline engine available.
Look for more information to be revealed when the live stream takes place on May 18th at 11:00 am EDT. We have added a link to the live stream here in the meantime, and we will also put a link on our social media pages too.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.