One thing is for certain, Toyota can’t be faulted for the effort they have put into redesigning the Prius.
The Japanese carmaker hopes to re-energize its hybrid flagship and overnight, it revealed the radical makeover it has been given for 2023.
A cartoon-like design and lack of power were the most notable comments made about the outgoing model.
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Few will confuse the latest fifth-generation model with its predecessor.
The overall look is now sleeker and more aggressive.
There is a gentle, coupe-like slope to the front end, windshield and roofline.
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Aero-efficiency is key, so Toyota’s designers have kept creases and flourishes to a minimum, too.
On the inside, the Prius 2023 interior has been revamped, with a focus on material quality and driver comfort.
2023 Prius performance
Ok, so the Prius’s dramatic design changes have got people talking, but what about power and performance?
Well, there is a new drivetrain – an upgraded version of that used by the previous Prius plug-in.
The old 1.8-liter gas engine makes way for a new 2.0-liter inline-4.
It is still paired to twin electric motors, but they have also been beefed up.
Combined output increases 60 percent, jumping from 121hp to 193hp.
If that is not enough power, there is the Prius+ plug-in hybrid, which has been given an even bigger boost.
Combined output for the Prius+ increases 77 percent, jumping from 134hp to 220hp.
According to Toyota, the 2023 Prius also increases its all-electric range, which is currently 24 miles, according to the EPA, by 50 percent.
All new Prius models will wear Toyota’s new ‘Beyond Zero’ badge, which will appear on all of its electric models moving forward.
Making the grade
The 2023 Prius will be offered in three grades: LE, XLE and Limited.
The LE grade has standard dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers, an eight-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, and six-way adjustable fabric front seats in black or grey, with fabric in the rear.
Additional standard features include six USB-c ports, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), SofTex steering wheel, and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).
The XLE grade comes with everything on the LE grade and adds standard 19-inch alloy wheels and eight-way adjustable heated power driver’s SofTex seat in standard in black or grey.
It also comes with standard rain-sensing wipers, smart key, wireless charger, and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking
The Limited includes all standard LE and XLE features and adds a standard 12.3-inch JBL Premium Audio touchscreen display, fixed glass roof, SofTex heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, power rear liftback, and Digital Key.
All Prius hybrid grades come in a choice of Front Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive.
2023 Toyota Prius price
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, excluding Dealer Processing and Handling, will start at $27,450 for the LE grade.
2023 Toyota Prius models are expected to arrive at Toyota Dealerships in January 2023.
