The world of electric vehicles has changed a great deal, with even Sony throwing its hat into the ring. However, one of the most significant examples of a decently widely used hybrid is the first-generation Toyota Prius. For many, the first Prius opened their eyes to an electrified possibility. However, despite the groundbreaking nature of the Prius, the car got a lot of negative attention in the beginning.
The first generation Toyota Prius came in 1997. The car is the first mass-produced Hybrid vehicle. By the end of the first generation of the Prius, the car had sold over 123,000 units. Though some disliked the vehicle, this helped prove to automakers that they should more seriously consider adding electric options. However, despite being groundbreaking, the original Prius was not without its significant issues. For one, most people didn’t love the Toyota Prius exterior. The 1997 Prius is a far cry from the upcoming sportier version of the car. Also, the car was not the fastest, which was a significant reason for the backlash it often gets from gearheads. Much of this has changed with later models, but many still associate the Prius with the first generation.
The first-generation Toyota Prius is a bit of a trailblazer in its own right. It may not have been the most respected vehicle, but it was an essential precursor to where EVs have come. Of course, options like the GM EV1 and the Honda EV Plus existed, but those cars were leased only. Many will note that Toyota only sold the first Gen Toyota Prius in Japan, which is why many people worldwide believe the car started much later. This makes the first gen version a modern JDM classic.
Here’s a look back at the first gen Toyota Prius.
The First-Generation Toyota Prius Has A Moderate Performance
Nowadays, we know that electric vehicles can be just as fast as internal combustion engine cars. Of course, the Prius is a hybrid, but this idea didn’t really exist in 1997 when the first model came along. The 1997 Toyota Prius has a 1.5-liter gas engine paired with an electric motor. It has a maximum output of 72 horsepower and a torque of 85 lb-ft. This front-wheel drive car has a one-speed automatic gearbox.
Regarding speed, we’ve already told you this car isn’t speedy. According to some reports, it accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 14.1 seconds. However, other reports put it closer to 12 seconds. It has a top speed of 99.4 miles per hour. In terms of fuel economy, the 1997 Toyota Prius gets a combined 46.1 miles to the gallon.
The First-Generation Toyota Prius Has A Compact Interior
The first generation Toyota Prius has a relatively compact but slightly advanced, if not weirdly designed, interior. Like many '90s cars, the gear shift is next to the steering wheel, which looks weird to many today. However, it’s not attached to the steering wheel like in other cars. Instead, it’s more so on the dash next to the wheel. Also different is that the instrument cluster, all digital, is in the center, which would make some think it’s a small infotainment system. There is also a navigation display, which is surprising for the time. Beyond this, the car has a relatively straightforward use of climate controls, comfort features for the time, and AC vents are plentiful.
Overall, the Toyota Prius has more than enough space for four or five people. It’s not a bland interior, but it’s nothing like what you’d find in a new Prius. Instead, it has a perfectly compact design that feels different enough without adding to the pretentious nature people often assigned to the car in its early days.
The First-Generation Toyota Prius' Exterior Is A Bit Bland
Again, where the car was a bit lackluster is its exterior. The first-generation Toyota Prius has a look that almost no one found attractive. This isn’t because it has some forward-thinking design that people just didn’t get. Instead, the early models of the Toyota Prius were boring and looked like any other sedan, just not as stylish. Honestly, the 1997 Prius looks a lot like the Toyota Echo. However, that car has some creativity behind it. The triangular and curved lights and the various air vents that served to keep the battery cool are also notable on the vehicle.
The first generation Toyota Prius is many things. It’s a groundbreaking car that helped show the world how far electric cars could go, both literally and figuratively. However, it’s also a car that caused some to believe EVs couldn’t be powerful, attractive, or simply fun. Luckily, the Toyota Prius has evolved over the years, and now there’s an entire market of exciting new electric vehicles. However, the word hybrid is often synonymous with Prius, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon.
Source: Toyota