Long before it became fashionable to own a hybrid or an electric car, people knew you were making environmentally-conscious choices if you owned a Toyota Prius. It was as much a statement as it was sustainable. Prius means “To Go Before” in Latin, and it did just that – it paved the way for a more energy-efficient future. Today, the Toyota Prius 2023 seems ready to carry forward its predecessor’s legacy.
On November 16, Toyota revealed that the Prius is ready to make a comeback in two forms – the all-new 2023 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime. The carmaker revealed the news to eager fans at a kickoff event scheduled before the start of the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Recently, Mercedes Benz CEO Ola Kallenius also stated that the future is EV. But before the world reaches that milestone, hybrid cars can accelerate our drive there.
The Toyota Prius Legacy
The Toyota Prius has been a symbol of sustainability for over two decades. When it was first released in 2021, nobody expected the world to prioritize clean energy and promote the use of hybrid cars and EVs.
The Prius 2001 set into motion a number of changes, and showed the world that clean energy vehicles can be fun and efficient. An environmentally-sound sedan, its competitive pricing kept skeptics away. But once they started driving, it was hard to pull the brakes.
The Toyota Prius was instrumental in attracting customers to clean technologies and guilt-free rides. Since its introduction, Priuses have been driven by over 20 million global customers.
The Prius 2023: A Stylish Rebirth
“As a company, we set our sights on developing a new Prius for the future, and our design and engineering teams really delivered,” said Toyota group vice president and general manager Dave Christ. “The weight of the Prius name is heavy – it carries with it the identity of an entire category of vehicle powertrain. We’re confident the all-new 2023 Prius and Prius Prime will continue this important legacy.”
Toyotas are a familiar sight when it comes to hybrid cars. The Toyota Prius 2023 and Prius Prime promise to help you achieve carbon-neutrality, one mile at a time.
The new Prius is designed in Japan and is all kinds of modern, progressive, and efficient. Available in LE, XLE and Limited grades, the Prius 2023 is built on the 2nd-generation TNGA-C platform. It is equipped with a large 2.0L engine (the current one has a 1.8L engine) and a lithium-ion battery. The newly developed lithium-ion battery is lightweight and energy-efficient compared to the previous nickel metal battery. The new hybrid system allows the Prius to go between 194 and 220 horsepower, in the right conditions. It is a huge improvement from the earlier 121 horsepower.
The Toyota Prius 2023 has an EPA rating of 57 mpg for the LE FWD model. Significantly more powerful than the earlier models, the new hybrid car offers better fuel economy and boasts of features like solar panels and hands-free driving.
It has three drive modes – Normal, Eco, and Sport, each with its unique features. The Toyota Prius 2023 offers a wide range of features no matter the grade. It is available in Wind Chill Pearl, Cutting Edge, Guardian Gray, Black, Supersonic Red, and Reservoir Blue colors.
The company shared that drivers can prepare themselves for a smooth ride with the Connected Service Drive Connect that allows drivers and passengers access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Enhanced safety features and the Proactive Driving Assist assure riders of a secure drive where they are in control. Just a “Hey Toyota” will perk up the car’s voice command system for navigation, climate, and audio control.
The company has not revealed the Prius 2023 price. The official on-sale date and pricing is expected to be announced late this year. Experts predict the Prius 2023 prices will start at around $27,000 for the most basic grade LE.
The Prius 2023 will go on sale sometime next year in the US.
Final Thoughts
The new Prius is appealing as it is efficient. While some details have not yet been revealed, it is clear that the Toyota Prius 2023 packs a powerful performance. Toyota’s fleet currently consists of 10 hybrids, two plug-in hybrids, one battery electric vehicle and the mini hydrogen-fueled vehicle.
The company has ambitious plans to develop its EV line-up and wants to sell around 3.5 million EVs annually. As it transitions from fossil fuel-based cars to EVs, the Toyota Prius is a stylish bridge that lets you move around comfortably.
Another hybrid that is being eagerly awaited is the BMW Hybrid SUV that is touted to be luxurious and futuristic.