2023 Toyota Prius Review

The fifth-generation Toyota Prius hatchback marks a significant transformation from its previous iterations. Shedding its reputation as one of the least attractive cars on the market, the Prius has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, emerging as a stunning and eye-catching vehicle. With a maximum output of 196 horsepower, this generation boasts the most power ever seen in a Prius. Toyota estimates that the front-wheel-drive model, delivering 194 horsepower, can achieve an impressive 57 mpg combined, setting a new efficiency benchmark for the Prius. Inside, the cabin has been completely redesigned, adopting a more conventional layout for the driver's space. Enhanced screens and an expanded array of features, including optional heated rear seats, enhance the overall driving experience. The new Prius sports a sleek profile with a low roofline, wide stance, and lowered seating position, solidifying its image as an enticing and desirable vehicle. While the Prius was once a pioneer in the hybrid segment, it now faces competition from a range of vehicles, including the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, Toyota's own Corolla Hybrid, and various hybrid SUVs.

What’s New

For The 2023 Toyota Prius enters its fifth generation with a comprehensive redesign that encompasses both its exterior and interior. Built on Toyota's advanced TNGA-C platform, every Prius now benefits from enhanced rigidity, improved eco-friendliness, and a wider stance, resulting in a more engaging driving experience. The updated model features a brand-new hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive 194 horsepower, with the option for all-wheel drive. Surpassing its hybrid competitors, the Prius offers excellent performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. In the case of all-wheel-drive models, the addition of a high-output magnet boosts the power output to 196 horsepower. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid variant called the Prius Prime is available, boasting a powerful 220-horsepower engine. However, our review focuses solely on the standard Prius model.

Pros

- The redesigned 2023 Toyota Prius showcases that efficiency can be achieved without sacrificing aesthetics.

- The Prius features an intuitive and user-friendly multimedia interface, ensuring a hassle-free user experience.

- With sturdy acceleration, the Prius delivers confident performance during highway merges and passing maneuvers.

- The well-calibrated and intuitive driver aids enhance the overall driving experience, providing added safety and convenience.

Cons

- The cargo area and rear opening of the Prius have been significantly reduced, offering less space for storage.

- Backseat headroom is limited, making it less comfortable for taller passengers.

- The gauge cluster is obstructed by the steering wheel, making it difficult to see and read the displayed information.

- The Prius can become noisy when the gas engine engages, causing a noticeable increase in sound levels.

Performance

The Toyota Prius lineup is equipped with a single powertrain option that comprises a 194-horsepower hybrid system. This system consists of a 2.0-liter hybrid inline-four gasoline engine, borrowed from the Corolla Cross hybrid crossover, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. The standard configuration is front-wheel drive. However, for all-wheel-drive models, Toyota adds a high-output permanent magnet electric motor to the rear axle, increasing the total powertrain output to 196 horsepower, a significant 60 percent power boost.

In terms of performance, the new Prius demonstrates impressive acceleration. Our tests of a front-wheel-drive Limited model showed that it reaches 0-60 mph in just 7.1 seconds, a notable improvement over the previous model's time of 10.5 seconds. This acceleration time is even quicker than both the Camry Hybrid and Elantra Hybrid. Additionally, thanks to larger front and rear brakes, the new Prius exhibits better stopping performance from 70 mph, coming to a halt in just 171 feet compared to the previous test's distance of 194 feet.

Fuel Economy

Despite the increased engine size and more powerful powertrain, the 2023 Toyota Prius achieves improved fuel efficiency compared to its previous generation. According to EPA estimates, the front-wheel-drive Prius achieves an impressive 57 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway. This marks a notable improvement of 4 mpg and 6 mpg, respectively, over the previous model. The all-wheel-drive Prius, while experiencing a slight decrease in fuel economy, still delivers commendable figures, with an estimated 53 mpg in the city and 54 mpg on the highway. We will provide an update on the Prius' fuel economy performance during our 75-mph highway test as soon as data becomes available.

Interior

Despite its new and updated exterior design, the fifth-generation Prius adopts a more conservative approach when it comes to the interior, showcasing a traditional automotive cockpit. One notable change is the inclusion of a gauge cluster positioned directly behind the steering wheel, a first for the Prius. The redesigned interior incorporates a lower roofline, reduced by 2.0 inches, to promote a lower center of gravity. Additionally, front passengers now enjoy a lower seating position compared to previous models. While the base models feature a faux leather steering wheel, opting for the XLE or higher trim levels grants access to heated front seats, additional cup holders for rear passengers, and the inclusion of heated rear seats.

Infotainment

Both the base and upper-level models of the new Prius offer larger screens compared to its predecessor. The LE and XLE trims now come with a standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen, while Toyota has introduced a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen for the Limited trim (or as an optional feature for the XLE). This advanced system incorporates voice control through the "Hey Toyota" command and provides infotainment updates via cloud-based over-the-air updates. The larger screen is equipped with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, and there is also the option of utilizing Wi-Fi connectivity.

Safety

Unlike many of its competitors, the Prius includes driver-assistance technology as a standard feature, while others typically offer it only through optional packages or on higher trim levels.

Final Words

For optimal value, we suggest opting for the XLE trim in the middle range. This trim level offers several desirable features that go beyond the base LE trim, such as keyless entry, heated front seats, and synthetic leather upholstery. While not essential, you may also want to consider selecting an XLE with the optional 12.3-inch center touchscreen for an enhanced infotainment experience.