Toyota Prius
Only with a plug this time
- 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery
- 111 kW (148 hp) 2.0l petrol engine
- 50% extra driving range than previous generation
The new Prius makes a striking entrance, both aesthetically and technically. Its slick coupe features hide a plug-in hybrid powertrain, even though Toyota has always been a champion of the "self-charging" hybrid.
The fifth-generation Prius
Since the launch of the first generation in 1997, the Prius has garnered fame as the archetype of the fuel-efficient hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). Toyota remains convinced of the energetic soundness and practical benefits of this concept, but pushed by European CO2 targets and market demand, the brand found itself compelled to expand its range to include PHEV models.
The first plug-in hybrid version of the Prius appeared in 2012, followed by an improved model in 2016. Today, the latter passes the torch to the fifth-generation Prius. Interestingly, the PHEV version is the only one available in Europe. Elsewhere on the planet, the Prius will again be offered as an HEV.
Smooth coupé lines
Strategic choices aside, the body design is quite agreeable. The Prius’ proportions are much more pleasing to the eye than those of previous generations. In view of an optimised fuel efficiency and driving range, Toyota really pushed the aerodynamic envelope.
The overall height decreased by 50 mm compared to the previous Prius PHEV, whereas the wheelbase increased by the same amount, which is good news for people with long legs. Its overall length shrank by 46 mm nonetheless and the new model is also 22 mm wider.
On the inside, Toyota introduces a new concept called Island Architecture. The instrument panel sits remarkably close to the windscreen base. De middle of the dashboard is dominated by a large infotainment screen that looks the part.
Bigger motor, bigger battery
Electric power comes from a 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides "more than 50 per cent extra driving range" than that of the fourth-generation Prius, says Toyota. As the previous number was 63 kilometres, the newcomer could hit the 100-km mark. The battery is integrated under the rear seat and, along with the placement of the fuel tank, helps to achieve a low centre of gravity.
At the heart of the hybrid powertrain is a 111 kW (148 hp) 2.0 petrol engine, which works in tandem with a 120-kW electric motor-generator. Together, they can deliver 223 hp or 164 kW, which is a lot more than the 122 hp or 90 kW of the previous Prius plug-in.
European launch is scheduled for spring 2023.
