2023 Toyota Prius: metamorphosis…
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I have to say, I am not disappointed by the new 2023 Prius. Not only it is the best-looking Prius ever (by far) but one of the best-looking Toyota in many years. It almost looks like a concept.
Regular Hybrid and PHEV models both returns. Specs seem to be different depending on the market. The European version of the PHEV is now rated at over 220HP, with a new 2.0 Liter engine. Which is a huge jump from the current generation. Apparently, there is no gain in MPG when compared to the current generation. But with over 220HP, the driving experience must be quite improved.
With a larger battery, the PHEV is rated at over 58 miles of EV range in Europe. But that could actually be less when calculated by the EPA in the US. Toyota claims the EV range on the PHEV model is improved by 50%. Which would still be under 40 miles in the US, and a bit less than expected ( I was really hoping for more than 50 miles)
Europe is also getting an optional solar roof panel.
The Hybrid will be available before the end of the year while the PHEV comes out next spring.
It is based on Toyota’s new 2nd generation TNGA platform and comes with new 19-inch wheels (standard in some markets).
“maintaining the same level of fuel efficiency as the previous model” is what Toyota is officially mentioning regarding both versions. Which could be disappointing to many. Although a 220HP car with a 58/53MPG rating is quite good. I guess they figured more buyers wanted more power than better fuel economy.
The interior is also a revolution compared to all previous versions. There is finally a small screen directly in front of the driver. And the whole thing looks really nice. Although better photos of the US model will be welcome and will be posted soon.
We should get all info available about the US model very soon. And as I mentioned earlier, the car should be at the Los Angeles Auto show and I will report on it again when I see it in person.
Interior looks like they took a bZ4X and a Crown and mashed the two together (in a good way).
Finally a magnificent design. Not only for Toyota but in general for the entire current panorama of automotive design. A return to the fundamentals of proportion and purity of 70s Italian design with extremely modern elements.
Vince, this is definitely the nicest Toyota, nice design, etc.
ONE problem, STEALERSHIPS. will be charging $5-10K over MSRP prices. Pure robbery, and Toyota doesn’t do nothing about it.
I wouldn’t mind buying one but not at those crazy prices that Toyo stealerships are charging on their line up, specially the Rav4 Hybrid and others models.
I’ll be waiting for a 2024 Subaru Forester Hybrid rumored to be 1.8 Turbo engine, paired with a Toyo batteries. Will see.
Toyota shamelessly copied the design of the Dodge Dart. And why is Toyota still obsessed in Hybrids? Why not fully dedicated BEV? How can the Prius compete against cars like the Kia Niro BEV which is in the similar price range, power and has 127 MPGe fuel economy.
I could see this new model pulling some former Prius owners back into the fold that migrated to Tesla because they could not stomach the Frankenstein looks of the 4th Gen.
Finally a Prius that you don’t have to be that weird college professor to drive.
Tell me again why I need an EV?
Wow. This is magnificent! It’s just too bad they didn’t make PHEV standard. It better have a great base price for the HEV version.
I haven’t heard of a Forester Hybrid coming up… Plus, the Stealerships are everywhere these days. Not just Toyota. A friend of mine was quoted $45 000 for a Nissan Kicks last year. And leases above $800 a month for a Kia EV6 are common.
Regarding the PHEV. It is standard in Europe. But North America will probably get both versions, Hybrid and PHEV.
Looks better, and will electric torque will possibly smoke the new Integra 0-60. This is not just good for a Prius, it is simply good design for any car.
Looks better, and with electric torque will possibly smoke the new Integra 0-60. This is not just good for a Prius, it is simply good design for any car.