Prius, the revolution continues. With this model, Toyota in 1997 began one of the greatest transformations of the automobile by putting on the market what in a short time became an icon, a symbol of electrification. .
Today, the most famous hybrid in history has reached its fifth generation, presented in world preview at the Los Angeles Motor Show (it will be available in Europe as early as next spring exclusively in the plug-in version).
It is a new generation system, more powerful than the previous ones thanks to a new high-capacity 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery. Together with the two-litre engine it is capable of generating a total power of 223 HP. The higher energy density cells allow for optimized packaging and the battery pack is therefore compact enough to fit under the rear seats, lowering the center of gravity. The electric range has also been improved and is now 50% greater than the current generation.
It also changes the design and improves the aerodynamics which by optimizing the air flow achieves an excellent level of fuel efficiency, handling and stability. The silhouette is still typical of a coupé but more dynamic and “emotional”, as the Japanese engineers are keen to point out. The iconic wedge shape, trademark of the Prius since the second generation, has evolved, adopting elegant and modern lines. With a width greater than 22 mm compared to the previous one, the footprint of the Prius reveals dynamism, while on the front the “hammerhead” design elegantly integrates lights that accentuate its distinctive shape.
The rear view is accented with a three-dimensional linear lighting element that emphasizes the futuristic design and draws attention to the bold Prius logo.
Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) second-generation GA-C platform, the new Prius features reduced weight and increased stiffness. By optimizing the placement of the battery and fuel tank, a lower center of gravity has been achieved, for an engaging and decidedly relaxing driving experience.
The black-themed interiors are divided into three zones according to Prius’ new “Island Architecture”: “surroundings”, “driver module” and “floating instrument panel”. The newly designed dashboard prioritizes comfort in the cabin and combines a discreet, lower central screen with a compact dashboard for air conditioning controls, while the dashboard lighting is linked to Toyota Safety Sense notifications, which send warnings through color changes.
Still too early to know the price lists but perhaps we will know something more on December 5 with the European presentation. But the fifth Toyota revolution has begun.
Prius, the Toyota revolution continues. Introducing the fifth generation, plug-in hybrid only