Toyota, the world's biggest seller of autos powered by a combination of petrol and electricity, now plans to import its new plug-in hybrid vehicle Prius into China, FAW Toyota's General Manager, Mao Liwu said recently.

The 2011 Toyota Prius, which retains its 50-plus-mpg rating and innovative options such as a solar-powered ventilation system, is actually a rerun of the 2010 Toyota Prius. Moreover, it is larger, more powerful, and more fuel-efficient than the previous models.

The 2011 Prius is a midsize four-door sedan and is available in three models: standard, base and touring. As for the power system, the new Prius's powertrain and mechanical features are unchanged. It uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive System, which allows it to move at around-town speeds on electric power alone.

In addition, it features a 1.8-litre four-cylinder gas engine, which matches a continuously variable transmission. Nickel-metal hydride batteries power two small electric motors, generating 134 horsepower in total output.

Additionally, the new Prius' navigation system is excellent, with a big, clear screen and sensitive voice-recognition software that can search for restaurants and stores by brand name. Overall, it is better, but does not push any extreme boundaries.

FAW Toyota said earlier that it would make big moves in the second half of this year, to achieve its full-year sales goal of 500,000 vehicles in China.