The Toyota Prius has generally received well-deserved praise for its fuel efficiency, usefulness, and enjoyable driving demeanor since it was first introduced to the market. It’s always had the upper hand in the hybrid market, eventually becoming one of the best-selling hybrids of all time. We could go on and on about its impact on the market, as well as its accolades. But one thing the Prius lacked over the years was style. Well… not anymore.
Last month, Toyota unveiled the completely redesigned 2023 Prius at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and for the first time, the Toyota Prius receives a full redesign that takes away the old egg-like look and adds a sleek, and more futuristic aesthetic. Arriving in early 2023, the new Toyota Prius faces stiff competition from the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the Kia Niro PHEV.
The 2023 Toyota Prius represents a significant advancement for Toyota’s flagship hybrid sedan, considering its new exterior and interior design, tech, and performance. If you've never considered purchasing a Prius, here are a couple of reasons why this model could be your ideal daily driver.
The 2023 Toyota Prius Received A Modern Makeover
As opposed to the current model’s quirky design, the 2023 Prius Prime will have an upscale and more pleasing appearance, featuring a rounded front end with a slimmer grille, a large oval air intake at the bottom of the fascia, and C-shaped daytime running lights.
The Prius Prime is available with solar panels in its glass roof for additional battery regeneration, and it has a sweeping rear roofline for an aerodynamic appearance. The Prius Prime's rear features a built-in spoiler, broad fenders, and thin taillights joined by a horizontal bar.
Enhancing the Prius’ aggressive appearance is the two-inch decrease in overall height and a one-inch increase in body width. With the decreased height, the Prius has a lowered seating position of the vehicle and center of gravity, improving handling.
The 2023 Toyota Prius Gets A Significant Power Bump
As the exterior and interior are new, so is the powertrain, which substitutes the current 1.8-liter engine for a bigger 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. When combined with the more potent electric motor, the 2023 Toyota Prius should churn out up to 194 horsepower, which is significantly more than the 121 of the prior generation.
From the previous LE model's combined city and highway fuel economy of 52 MPG, the new LE should achieve 57 mpg, according to Toyota. This not only saves you money at the pump but also increases energy sustainability, which we’re excited about.
The lithium-ion battery is now stored just under the back seat and doesn’t eat away the storage space. While Toyota hasn’t specified the size of the battery pack, the brand claims is larger than before and should provide up to 38 miles of all-electric range.
In standard form, power goes to the front wheels (FWD). With the optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, a second electric motor joins the driveline to power the rear wheels. According to Toyota, the FWD Prius accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, while the AWD model does so in exactly 7.0 seconds.
The 2023 Toyota Prius’ Comes With A New Cabin Design And More Tech
For the new model year in 2023, the Toyota Prius Prime's interior also receives a significant upgrade. The PHEV's dashboard design retains a more traditional approach, with an instrument cluster in front of the steering wheel, a central touchscreen mounted on top of the dash, and a row of simple physical controls. If you ask us, this is a much more aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly design than what we’ve seen in the past.
From the old and outdated touchscreen interface of the current model, this model significantly improves the Prius' technological prowess as well. There are two sizes available: an 8-inch screen that is standard on all models and a 12.3-inch screen that is optional on XLE and standard on Limited models.
The user interface does seem similar to the one inside the bZ4X, the Sequoia SUV, and the Tundra pickup. And, if that's the case, expect it to be crispier, more intuitive, and more attractive than the one on the current model. You'll also notice that the center stack is more integrated and higher up than before, improving visibility under direct sunlight.
On the connectivity end, the Prius will come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling you to perform a variety of tasks including making phone calls, accessing voice-activated GPS and directions, and changing the radio station without ever taking your eyes off the road. A Wi-Fi hotspot, an eight-speaker JBL audio system, and luxury features like heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic roof are all available upgrades.
Also coming standard on all trims is the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driving aids, which includes a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning, pre-collision warning, and braking, as well as adaptive cruise control and a lane departure alert. Upgrading to the XLE from the LE trim gives you front and rear parking sensors with automatic braking.
The 2023 Toyota Prius: Pricing And Release Date
At the time of this writing, Toyota hasn’t yet revealed the details on the pricing of the 2023 Prius. But with the current model starting at $29,865 (with destination), expect a slight price bump for the new 2023 model.
With the Inflation Reduction Act limiting eligibility to vehicles made in North America, the 2023 Toyota Prius will be ineligible for a federal tax credit.
There aren't many PHEVs on the market, but the 2023 Prius Prime should strongly square up against its Kia and Subaru competition. As the 2023 Toyota Prius' official release date approaches, we'll keep you updated with more info.
Sources: Toyota