Toyota has launched the latest version of the Prius in the UK market, featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The new Prius, now in its third generation, boasts improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and enhanced electric vehicle driving capabilities.
Customers can choose between two versions: Design and Excel, both equipped with a 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid engine producing 223PS. With a 13.6kWh battery, the Prius offers an impressive electric driving range of up to 53 miles.
In situations where longer journeys are required or charging is not feasible, the plug-in hybrid system maintains a combined CO2 emissions rating of just 12g/km – the most environmentally friendly Prius model to date.
The acceleration of this Prius plug-in hybrid is also very impressive as it can reach 62mph in just under 7 seconds, which makes it the fastest version they've made so far.
The Basic and Excel versions of the all-new Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid
The standard Prius Design includes 17-inch alloy wheels, intelligent (keyless) entry, rear privacy glass, Toyota's newest Smart Connect+ multimedia system featuring cloud-based and embedded navigation, a digital driver’s instrument cluster, parking sensors, and dual-zone air conditioning. Additionally, it is equipped with a range of cutting-edge Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems as part of the standard package.
The inclusion of Excel upgrade entails the addition of 19-inch wheels, front seats that can be adjusted in eight different ways and are equipped with heating for winter driving, as well as ventilation to offer a refreshing burst of air during the summer. Moreover, the specification also encompasses a digital rear-view mirror and a power back door.
Upon unveiling the vehicle in November 2022, Toyota announced that the latest model would not be offered to customers in the UK due to insufficient demand for non-SUV models. The company's UK division explained that the decline in interest for their traditional saloon model was a result of a shift towards SUV-type hybrids, with the CH-R outselling the Prius by a significant margin in the previous year.
However, Toyota's decision was reversed after observing a significant increase in hybrid sales in the UK, as many consumers remain hesitant to transition to fully electric vehicles.
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The commencement of customer ordering is set to begin in March, while the initial vehicles are expected to arrive starting from July in the UK.