Automotive
Toyota officially presented the 2023 Prius in November 2022, marking a significant milestone for the model as it finally achieved true maturity and delivered commendable performance capabilities.
The original Prius, launched in 1997, was primarily recognized for its exceptional fuel economy, though it fell short in terms of design and driving dynamics, earning the nickname “the ugly duckling” of the Toyota lineup. Subsequent generations showed gradual improvements in styling, but still lagged behind competitors. The fourth generation introduced all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid variant, yet failed to satisfy drivers seeking more responsive acceleration. It wasn’t until the fifth generation that Toyota successfully met and exceeded customer expectations.
The latest Prius showcased a significant leap in design, thanks to enhanced investment in Toyota’s styling department. Its futuristic appearance, featuring C-shaped LED headlamps and a sci-fi inspired front fascia, set a new standard for the brand. The slim upper grille and relocated badge, complemented by a wider lower air intake with optional silver trim, contributed to its modern look.
The car’s aerodynamic profile boasted an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27, thanks to fluid body lines. The ascending hood and panoramic windshield seamlessly integrated with a cab-rearward design, characterized by a curved roofline and sloping tailgate. Available dual moonroofs, inspired by the discontinued Prius V, further enhanced the design. Side handles were conventional for the front doors but discreetly integrated into the C-pillars for the rear, giving the vehicle a four-door coupe silhouette. Wheel sizes ranged from 17 inches (LE trim) to 19 inches (XLE and Limited trims), replacing the previous 15-inch options.
Inside, Toyota made a notable change by relocating the instrument panel directly in front of the driver, abandoning the traditional center-dash placement. The updated TFT display provided advanced vehicle information, while a landscape-oriented touchscreen graced the center stack. Enhanced front seats offered better support for cornering, and the rear featured a split-folding bench that complemented the spacious trunk.
The most substantial improvement lay beneath the surface. The Prius adopted the second-generation TNGA-C platform, incorporating McPherson struts at the front and a double-wishbone suspension at the rear. The battery placement under the rear seats lowered the center of gravity. Canadian models came standard with e-AWD, while other markets received FWD with optional e-AWD. Power output significantly increased from 123 PS to 223 PS in e-AWD versions, enabling a 0-100 kph acceleration time of 6.7 seconds – a dramatic improvement over the previous model’s 10+ seconds.
