Twenty-two years ago, the Toyota Prius revolutionized the automotive landscape by introducing the world to mass-production hybrid vehicles. Now, the legacy continues with the unveiling of the all-new 2023 Toyota Prius, alongside the Prius Prime, marking a significant step forward in Toyota’s commitment to carbon neutrality and fuel-efficient driving. This fifth-generation Prius isn’t just an evolution; it’s a transformation, boasting a sporty new exterior, enhanced performance, and groundbreaking fuel efficiency, setting a new benchmark for hybrid vehicles in the US market and beyond.
Dave Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager, emphasized the importance of this new model, stating, “As a company, we set our sights on developing a new Prius for the future, and our design and engineering teams really delivered. 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.”
The original Prius aimed to normalize hybrid technology, shifting it from an alternative to a mainstream choice. With over 5 million units sold in North America and 20 million globally, Toyota hybrids have become a common sight, significantly contributing to environmental sustainability by preventing over 82 million tons of CO2 emissions. The 2023 Prius amplifies this impact as the most fuel-efficient Prius to date, achieving a manufacturer-estimated 57 MPG combined fuel economy rating on the LE FWD model. This achievement underscores Toyota’s dedication to accessible electrification and environmentally conscious driving.
Toyota’s multifaceted approach to carbon neutrality extends beyond hybrid technology, encompassing battery electric vehicles like the bZ4X and hydrogen fuel cell technology Mirai. The Prius, symbolizing this commitment, will be the first Toyota vehicle to feature the new “Beyond Zero” badge, representing a global initiative towards carbon neutrality in products and manufacturing.
Pricing and the official on-sale date for the highly anticipated 2023 Prius are expected to be announced later this year.
Sporty Design Meets Driver Comfort in the 2023 Prius
The design philosophy behind the latest Prius generation prioritizes both practicality and emotional appeal. Available in LE, XLE, and Limited grades, the 2023 Prius is constructed on the second-generation TNGA-C platform. This foundation allows for a lower center of gravity, reduced overall weight, and enhanced structural rigidity compared to its predecessors. The result is a driving experience that is both agile and comfortable, characterized by a wider stance and a lower driving position.
Designed in Japan, the 2023 Prius exhibits a modern, progressive, and refined aesthetic both inside and out. Its striking silhouette, marked by aerodynamic elegance, features a roofline lowered by 2 inches, contributing to a more athletic profile. The rear of the vehicle has been widened by nearly an inch, enhancing its dynamic and contemporary style.
The larger wheels, standard on the XLE and Limited trims, not only enhance the sporty appearance but also contribute to improved performance and handling. Furthermore, the hip point is approximately one inch lower than the previous generation, and the optimized battery placement ensures a low center of gravity while maximizing luggage capacity. These design elements collectively enhance both the visual appeal and the functional aspects of the 2023 Toyota Prius.
Enhanced Performance and Efficiency of the 2023 Prius Hybrid System
Performance in the 2023 Prius is purposefully engineered to deliver a refined driving experience. The new hybrid system significantly boosts both fuel economy and driving performance by increasing the output of both the engine and battery. Improvements in acceleration and handling provide a uniquely electrified driving feel with enhanced accelerator responsiveness.
At the heart of the 2023 Prius is the 5th generation hybrid powertrain, featuring a larger 2.0L engine and a newly developed lithium-ion battery positioned beneath the rear seat. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models incorporate an Electronic On-Demand AWD system, utilizing a rear-mounted motor to provide stable performance during starts and on slippery surfaces like snow. The new lithium-ion battery pack offers a 15% increase in output compared to the previous Nickel Metal battery, while simultaneously reducing size and weight.
This advanced hybrid system empowers the 2023 Prius with an engaging acceleration experience, delivering 194 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 7.2 seconds for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models – a remarkable 26% improvement over the previous generation’s 9.8 seconds.
For All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models, the 2023 Prius offers 196 horsepower and achieves a 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds. The rear motor in AWD models utilizes a high-output IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) design, contributing to a compact structure that enhances traction on low-grip surfaces and improves stability during cornering.
Drivers can tailor their experience with three distinct drive modes: NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT. ECO mode optimizes fuel efficiency by moderating the accelerator response for finer control. SPORT mode enhances throttle responsiveness by increasing drive force at low-to-mid accelerator input, providing a more dynamic driving feel in the 2023 Prius.
Trim Levels and Feature Highlights of the 2023 Prius: LE, XLE, and Limited
The 2023 Toyota Prius offers a comprehensive suite of standard and available features across its LE, XLE, and Limited grades, ensuring a well-equipped vehicle regardless of the chosen trim. Available in a range of exterior colors including Wind Chill Pearl, Cutting Edge, Guardian Gray, Black, Supersonic Red, and Reservoir Blue, the Prius allows drivers to express their personal style.
Prius LE Grade (Standard Features):
- 17-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic wheel covers
- 8-inch audio multimedia touchscreen display
- 6 USB-C ports for device connectivity
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) for enhanced convenience
- SofTex-trimmed leather steering wheel for a premium feel
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) for increased safety
Optional features for the LE grade include Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB).
Prius XLE Grade (LE Features Plus):
- Upgraded 19-inch alloy wheels for a bolder stance
- 8-inch audio multimedia touchscreen display
- Digital Rear-View Mirror & HomeLink for enhanced visibility and convenience
- Additional rear seat cup holders for passenger comfort
- Heated front seats for driver and passenger comfort in colder climates
- 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat for personalized comfort
- SofTex-trimmed seats for a refined interior
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers for automatic operation
- Smart Key system for keyless entry and start
- Qi wireless charging pad for compatible devices
- Direct light illumination for improved interior visibility
- Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB)
Optional features for the XLE grade include a larger 12.3-inch audio multimedia touchscreen, a fixed glass roof for an open-air feel, and Digital Key functionality.
Prius Limited Grade (XLE Features Plus):
- Expansive 12.3-inch audio multimedia touchscreen display
- JBL® Premium Audio System with 8 speakers for an immersive sound experience
- Fixed glass roof for panoramic views
- Heated steering wheel for cold-weather comfort
- Heated and ventilated front seats for year-round comfort
- 8-way power driver’s seat with memory function for personalized settings
- Digital Key for smartphone-based vehicle access
- Power back door for convenient cargo access
Optional features for the Limited grade include Advanced Park assist for automated parking maneuvers, Digital Rearview Mirror, heated rear seats, and Panoramic View Monitor for a 360-degree view around the vehicle.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Connectivity in the 2023 Toyota Prius
The 2023 Toyota Prius is equipped with a suite of advanced technological features, headlined by the available 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. Developed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team, this system offers intuitive touch and voice activation controls. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates ensure the system remains current with the latest features and improvements.
With available Connected Services like Drive Connect, drivers gain access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant responds to voice commands initiated by “Hey Toyota,” enabling hands-free control for directions, Points of Interest (POI) searches, audio adjustments, climate control, and more. Cloud Navigation leverages real-time cloud data for up-to-date maps, traffic information, and routing. Google POI data enhances the accuracy and comprehensiveness of point-of-interest searches. Destination Assist provides 24/7 access to live agents for navigation assistance.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system supports dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. An available Wi-Fi Connect trial provides 4G connectivity for up to five devices, transforming the Prius into a mobile AT&T Hotspot. Integrated Streaming allows users to link their Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions for in-vehicle control, complementing HD Radio®, USB data, and SiriusXM® Platinum Plan compatibility.
The optional JBL® Premium Audio system elevates the audio experience with eight speakers and Clari-Fi® technology, which enhances the quality of compressed digital music formats, creating a richer and more dynamic sound.
Additional Connected Services include Safety Connect (Emergency Assistance, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator) and Service Connect (Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts), both available with up to a 10-year trial. The Toyota app enables Remote Connect features (headlight activation, door lock/unlock, remote start, vehicle status checks, Guest Driver Alerts) with a 1-year trial on LE and standard on XLE and Limited. Digital Key functionality, available on XLE and Limited, allows smartphone-based vehicle access and operation.
The 2023 Prius is designed to keep devices charged with six USB ports throughout the cabin: two Type-C ports in the front center stack, two in the center console, and two for rear passengers at the back of the center console. Convenience features include standard Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) on all grades, available Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, and optional Panoramic View Monitor and Advanced Park assist on the Limited grade.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Advanced Safety Features in the 2023 Prius
The 2023 Prius comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), the latest iteration of Toyota’s comprehensive active safety suite. TSS 3.0 builds upon the previous generation with enhanced features and capabilities:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Enhanced detection capabilities, improved intersection support, and now includes motorcyclist detection.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Improved lane recognition, including 3D object detection like guardrails.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Adds a fourth following distance setting and enhanced vehicle detection for smoother speed adjustments, even in adjacent lanes.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Enhanced lane recognition and now includes a lane centering function that provides a subtle offset from vehicles in adjacent lanes being passed.
- Road Sign Assist: Expanded sign detection to include intersection and warning signs.
- Automatic High Beams: Automatically adjusts high beam settings for optimal visibility.
- Proactive Driving Assist: A new feature that provides gentle braking into curves or gentle braking/steering to maintain distance from preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
The Emergency Driving Stop System, integrated into Lane Tracing Assist, monitors driver inputs and can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive, enhancing safety in emergency situations.
The 2023 Toyota Prius represents a significant evolution of the hybrid vehicle, combining striking design, exhilarating performance, exceptional fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. As Toyota continues its journey towards carbon neutrality, the Prius remains at the forefront, offering a compelling and responsible choice for drivers seeking a vehicle that excels in both innovation and environmental consciousness.
