Toyota Motor Corp has begun selling all-new Prius series-parallel hybrid (HEV) models in Japan. Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models will also be launched in March.

Introduced in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid car, the Prius has driven the adoption of HEVs as a new generation of environmentally friendly cars with outstanding fuel efficiency. Today, hybrid technology is used in a wide range of models that are loved and enjoyed by people around the world.

With a range of powertrain options being developed to promote carbon neutrality, Toyota said it wanted to create a new Prius HEV that customers would enjoy and cherish as the car of choice for generations to come.

The key features of the new Prius are as follows

Body shape

The new Prius inherits the distinctive mono-form silhouette of the original Prius, reborn with a lower center of gravity and even more stylish proportions. The simple yet sculpted body expresses an exhilaration that appeals to the senses and a universal beauty that will remain popular in the future.

The 'island architecture' concept creates a stress-free, spacious interior with a cockpit that makes it easy to concentrate on driving. Overall, the interior offers intuitive operation and an enjoyable driving experience.
A total of eight body colors are available, including two newly developed solid base colors, Ash and Mustard, which create a sporty impression and add a touch of color to customers' everyday lives, creating a stronger sense of belonging.

Performance

The new Prius is equipped with the latest fifth-generation hybrid system in both the 2.0-liter and 1.8-liter models.

Compared to the previous model, the 2.0-liter Prius (Z and G grades) achieves an improved fuel efficiency of 28.6 km/l and a maximum system output of 144 kW (196 hp), which is 1.6 times higher than the previous model*1. This model achieves a high level of balance between the outstanding environmental performance of a Prius and the captivating driving performance of a car that responds as expected with satisfying acceleration and responsive driving.

With a long list of improvements, including updates to all-electric modules, the 1.8-liter Prius (U and X grades) achieves an excellent fuel efficiency of 32.6 km/l. The refined performance and seamless acceleration of a hybrid give the feeling of agility when pulling away and the responsiveness of direct drive.

Advanced safety and driver assistance systems

Rear Vehicle Proximity Notification [first for a Toyota-branded vehicle].
Using the Blind Spot Monitor's rear millimeter-wave radar, this feature detects vehicles behind and alerts the driver via the Multi-Information Display and buzzer if another vehicle is approaching.

Closing Assistance (recording function and suggestions for vehicle reporting) 

If a vehicle approaching from behind is too close, this system offers the driver suggestions for dealing with the situation, including contacting the police.

In cars equipped with a drive recorder, the system not only records the event automatically, but also stores the data in a special area that makes it difficult to over-record.

Secondary Collision Brake (rear impact mitigation when stationary)
Using the Blind Spot Monitor's rear millimeter-wave radar, this system detects vehicles to the rear and, if it detects a very high probability of a collision when the vehicle is stationary, applies the brakes to reduce speed in the event of a rear-end collision. Compared to the previous model, this system enables earlier speed reduction by applying the brakes before a collision.