The automaker is prepared to highlight the US version of the new Toyota Prius PHEV after unveiling it in Europe. Inside and out, the 2023 Prius hybrid and 2023 Prius Prime plug-in are identical to their European counterparts, but now that we know more about the US model, including information about the all-wheel-drive variant,
The company’s second-generation TNGA-C platform serves as the foundation for the fifth-generation Prius. In comparison to the model it replaces, the new hybrid is one inch (25.4 mm) wider and 2 inches (50.8 mm) shorter. Additionally, the hip point is one inch lower. To help lower the car’s centre of gravity and maintain its cargo space, Toyota placed the battery under the back seats.
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The front wheels of the Prius are driven by a larger 2.0-liter engine and a newly created lithium-ion battery pack that both have a 15% increase in output. With a combined output of 194 horsepower (142 kilowatts), the hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 7.2 seconds, which is a 26% faster time than the previous front-wheel-drive model’s 9.8 seconds.
According to the automaker, the base FWD model can get up to 57 miles per gallon in combined fuel efficiency. The combined EPA rating for the 2022 Prius is 52 mpg.
The new Prius will be available from Toyota in an all-wheel-drive configuration, with the rear wheels being driven by a powerful interior permanent magnet motor. Its 2.0-liter hybrid engine generates 196 horsepower (144 kW), which allows it to reach 60 mph in 7.0 seconds.
The most athletic of the group is the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid. The new 2.0-liter engine and battery are still used, but in this variant they produce 220 hp (161 kW). The faster powertrain accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in only 6.6 seconds. The math suggests 37.5 miles of all-electric driving, but the new powertrain also more than doubles the previous generation model’s 25-mile electric-only range. An optional solar roof panel works with the Prime’s battery to help recharge it.
The Prius and Prius Prime are available in three trim levels from Toyota. While the plug-in is offered in SE, XSE, and XSE Premium, the regular hybrid is given the designations LE, XLE, and Limited. The 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen from Toyota (along with over-the-air updates), an eight-speaker JBL premium audio system, and heated and ventilated front seats are included in both top trims.
The two mid-level trims include wireless charging, 19-inch wheels, two extra cup holders in the backseat, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The two base trims come with 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment systems and 17-inch wheels. Both lineups come standard with Toyota Safety Sense.
Later this year, Toyota will reveal Prius pricing details and a launch date. The first half of 2023 will have to pass before we learn more about the Prius Prime.
