The evolution of a hybrid icon

With its sportier and more dynamic style, the fifth generation of the Prius breaks with the design of previous models. Toyota has succeeded in combining functionality and aesthetics to create a vehicle that turns heads yet is still focused on efficiency.

With an impressive drag coefficient of 0.24, the Prius reduces air resistance to a minimum, thereby optimising energy efficiency. This is thanks to flowing lines and a teardrop-shaped silhouette that allows for better airflow with less drag, as well as a rear diffuser that optimises airflow under the vehicle and reduces turbulence.

The Prius is equipped with adaptive LED headlights that provide optimum visibility at night while ensuring that other road users are not dazzled. It stands on 17- to 19-inch alloy wheels, which are two-tone to emphasise its premium character. The 195-millimetre-wide tyres on the 19-inch wheels are designed to optimise energy efficiency.

Interior: A futuristic experience and plenty of comfort

The interior of the Toyota Prius combines minimalism and technology. The large windscreen, which seems to stretch into infinity, is accentuated by the visually impressive dashboard. In the centre is a 12.3-inch touchscreen with the Toyota Smart Connect multimedia system and an intuitive navigation system. It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A 7-inch display in front of the driver shows the most important information. Numerous parameters can be controlled via the controls on the steering wheel. Although it may seem a little counterintuitive at first, the system is easy to use after a short familiarisation period. The heated steering wheel has many buttons for various functions. Here, too, it is easy to use after a short period of familiarisation.

The electrically adjustable and heated seats offer good support and plenty of comfort. An LED light strip on the dashboard adds a splash of colour to an otherwise rather grey interior. The storage space in the doors and in the centre console, which has four USB ports, is cleverly utilised. The rear seats are generously proportioned. Passengers sit slightly elevated and have two USB-C sockets at their disposal. The panoramic roof ensures plenty of light. Overall, no one in the rear of the vehicle is likely to feel cramped. The standard audio system is very high quality, but can be upgraded to a JBL system as an option. The Toyota Prius is equipped with the latest driver assistance systems and a rear-view camera that provides a real-time view of the rear.

The only notable drawback is the boot. At just 280 litres, it is disappointing in this vehicle segment. This is due to the rechargeable battery, which needs space.

Better than a fully electric car on the road?

The Prius impresses with its road holding, as it is consistently designed for balance and precision. Its TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform gives the Prius a lower centre of gravity and optimal weight distribution, as well as greater rigidity. These characteristics ensure exemplary stability in corners. The suspension efficiently absorbs road irregularities, ensuring remarkable comfort. In addition, the precise and responsive steering provides a direct connection to the road and enables smooth manoeuvres. Whether in the city or on winding roads, the Prius impresses with its confidence-inspiring and dynamic handling.

When starting, the Prius is in fully electric mode. However, the driver can also choose between electric, hybrid and battery recharge modes. In the latter mode, the combustion engine is used at a specific speed to recharge the battery. In electric mode, the driving performance is similar to that of a fully electric car. Thanks to its optimised weight and excellent drag coefficient, its fuel consumption is lower than that of other plug-in hybrid vehicles, which are often heavier.

In hybrid mode, with a fully charged battery, it achieves a remarkable average fuel consumption of 3.5 litres per 100 kilometres. Even when electric drive is limited to a minimum, a percentage of electricity is still available to start and assist the vehicle, and fuel consumption remains at a manageable 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres. At 130 km/h on the motorway, consumption rises to an acceptable 6 litres per 100 kilometres, which is still very good for a plug-in hybrid.

Powertrain: a must for hybrids?

The new Toyota Prius is equipped with a hybrid powertrain that combines energy efficiency and performance. The previous 1.8-litre engine has been replaced by a four-cylinder combustion engine with a displacement of two litres, which operates according to the Atkinson cycle. This cycle is more fuel-efficient but has less power. This makes it the technology of choice when it comes to optimising the combustion engine of a hybrid vehicle for efficiency.

The combustion engine delivers 152 hp and has a torque of 190 Nm. It has a double camshaft with variable intake and exhaust and a D-4S injection system (direct and indirect). This combined injection system not only ensures greater elasticity, but also reduces fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.

The combustion engine is designed to work in perfect synergy with the electric motor by reducing the power required when starting and accelerating. The electric component is based on a permanent magnet synchronous motor with 163 hp and a torque of 208 Nm. In conjunction with a lithium-ion battery, it ensures a smooth transition from electric to hybrid mode. The battery has a capacity of 13.6 kWh and enables a range of up to 70 kilometres in fully electric mode (according to the WLTP cycle). This meets the growing demand from consumers for emission-free driving in everyday life. It is equipped with a small 3.3 kW on-board charger. It takes around four hours to fully charge. All this adds up to a combined output of 223 hp and 208 Nm, which is more than enough for a vehicle that focuses on efficiency.

Toyota has remained true to its continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the new Prius. It harmoniously manages the power of the two engines and ensures smooth and efficient driving. The CVT is based on a planetary gear system that acts as a power distributor. This enables immediate response as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed.

Unfortunately, however, the CVT transmission causes the engine to rev a little high, similar to a motor scooter.

Conclusion

With its increased energy efficiency, the new Toyota Prius once again redefines the standards for hybrid vehicles. However, Toyota only offers a PHEV version, which is quite expensive. The starting price is 48,340 euros.