Toyota Prius Review 2023
The new Toyota Prius is a hybrid car that continues to impress with its eco-friendly features and fuel efficiency. In a time where environmental concerns and emissions regulations are becoming increasingly significant, the Prius offers an attractive option for conscientious drivers.
Rivals to the Toyota Prius include the Hyundai Ioniq or Kia Niro.
Our Toyota Prius review covers:
- Distinctive and futuristic look with an efficient aerodynamic exterior
- Spacious and well-designed interior
- 502-litre boot, expanding to 1,633 litres with rear seats down
- Offers a 1.8-litre petrol engine paired with a compact electric motor
- Two trim levels are available: Business Edition and Excel
Pros:
- Quiet Ride
- Fuel Efficiency
- Low Emissions
Cons:
- Price
- Limited Performance
- Cargo Space
The design of the new Toyota Prius is distinctive and instantly recognizable. It features a sleek and aerodynamic exterior that not only enhances its fuel efficiency but also gives it a futuristic and unique appearance. The Prius’ design is optimized for aerodynamic efficiency, with a sloping roofline, sharp edges, and various body contours to minimize drag. This not only contributes to improved fuel economy but also sets it apart from conventional cars. The front grille is striking and incorporates distinctive LED headlights, which give the Prius a modern and high-tech look. The 'double-bubble' rear window is a signature feature of its design. You'll find a hybrid badge on the exterior, highlighting its eco-friendly nature and hybrid powertrain.
The Toyota Prius is designed with practicality in mind, making it a suitable choice for daily driving in the UK. The cabin of the Prius offers ample space for both front and rear passengers. It provides a comfortable and spacious environment, which is important for long journeys and daily commutes. The interior layout is designed to be user-friendly, with an easy-to-reach touchscreen infotainment system and well-organized controls. The dashboard design is clean and modern. The Prius provides good visibility from the driver's seat, aiding manoeuvrability in city traffic and on narrow UK roads.
The boot space in the Toyota Prius can vary slightly depending on the specific model and trim level. The standard Prius typically offers around 502-litre boot, expanding to 1,633 litres with rear seats down. This should be sufficient for everyday groceries, luggage, and small to medium-sized items. It's worth noting that the Prius’ hybrid battery is located beneath the rear seats. While this contributes to a lower centre of gravity and better weight distribution, it can reduce the height of the cargo area slightly.
The interior of the new Toyota Prius is designed to provide comfort, functionality, and a modern ambience for both the driver and passengers. The Prius offers a spacious and roomy cabin, providing comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. Taller passengers will appreciate the ample headroom and legroom, making it suitable for long journeys.
The driver's seat is designed to be comfortable and ergonomic, with easily accessible controls. The dashboard layout is clean and user-friendly, with a central touchscreen infotainment system that keeps essential functions within reach. The Prius is equipped with Toyota's latest infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display that varies in size depending on the trim level. It typically offers features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation, depending on the trim and options.
The Prius often includes advanced technology features such as a head-up display, wireless phone charging, and a premium JBL audio system, depending on the trim level. These tech enhancements contribute to a more enjoyable driving experience. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard on many Prius models, allowing the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperature settings.
Two trim levels are available: Business Edition and Excel.
Both model grades offer an extensive range of equipment. In the Business Edition and Excel trims, you'll find a dual-zone Intelligent S-FLOW air-conditioning system, Adaptive Cruise Control that remains operational at all speeds, and the Toyota Touch 2 entertainment system featuring a 7-inch touchscreen control. For Business Edition Plus and Excel models, you can opt for the Touch 2 with Go satellite navigation system. Moreover, starting from the Business Edition trim and above, the new Prius comes with additional features like a wireless phone charging system, a colour head-up display, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The Toyota Prius is equipped with a single-engine option, consisting of a 1.8-litre petrol engine coupled with a compact electric motor. This hybrid configuration allows you to drive in electric-only EV mode at lower speeds or combine both the motor and engine for more vigorous acceleration. The standard automatic gearbox seamlessly integrates these power sources, providing an effortless driving experience, particularly in urban settings.
In terms of comfort, the Prius impresses for a hybrid vehicle. It effectively minimizes wind noise, even at higher speeds. While there is some tire noise noticeable on motorways, it remains quieter than comparable models like the Hyundai or Kia. The Prius does exhibit a bit more body lean when navigating tight, winding roads compared to the Hyundai. However, it's important to note that both models share an identical five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. This means that the Prius is a secure choice for families, offering both economical hybrid efficiency and practicality, making it a compelling option to consider.
The Toyota Prius is now available for purchase at a starting on-the-road price of £36,534.00*, or it can be leased with monthly payments starting from £335.54.
If you're considering leasing a Toyota Prius, we proudly offer excellent car leasing services in the UK. Our leasing deals include a manufacturer's warranty, road tax, breakdown insurance, and free delivery to most areas of the UK mainland (excluding specific regions).
Leasing a Toyota Prius can often be a more financially advantageous option compared to purchasing outright, thanks to the fixed monthly payments, variable mileage options, low initial rental, and flexible contract durations.
It's important to note that the 'on-the-road' price mentioned includes a year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee, and a number plate fee. Please be aware that this price is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change. To get the most up-to-date information, we recommend contacting your nearest retailer.
