Beyond fuel economy, 2023 Prius is actually fun to drive
The 2022 Toyota Prius has the design presence of an alien life form, with an interior ambiance that never lets you forget that weight is the enemy, as every unnecessary gram of weight has been eliminated. It has always been such, and with good reason.
According to the Toyota Prius’ chief engineer, the car was considered little more than a commodity car by Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda, a car built to a price to minimize CO2 emissions, not maximize thrills. The result was a fairly joyless car to drive.
But that’s all changed for 2023, as the car’s mission has changed within the Toyota lineup. No longer a unique offering, as most Toyota models offer a hybrid variant, Toyota’s designers created a car that looked sporty as well as aerodynamic, and challenged engineers to create a driving experience that matched the new car’s looks.
The result is a vehicle that Toyota management hopes has enough emotional appeal to lure buyers with its design, more powerful driveline and newfound handling finesse.
Created in Japan, the 2023 Toyota Prius is built using the corporate TNGA-C platform that allows the car to sport a lower center of gravity, reduced weight and increased rigidity compared to the 2022 model. It also means that this Prius has a wider vehicle stance, while providing a 2-inch lower roofline and lower driving position, imparting a sportier profile.
That change is apparent when you climb inside, as there’s less headroom
than before, although the front seats are wide and comfortable with a commanding driving position. Front seat space is ample, but rear seat legroom depends on the generosity of front seat passengers. Clearly, design took some precedent over practicality.
As in the current model, the instrument cluster sits far forward, but it’s no longer centered in the cabin but rather centered in front of the driver. But its placement is not adjustable and can become partially blocked by the top of the steering wheel unless the wheel is tilted all of the way down. The design suggests that Toyota wanted an instrument cluster with the functionality of a head-up display. Elsewhere, the cabin’s ergonomics are
spot-on — including its tech package.
When it comes to tech, there are six USB-C ports, an 8-inch Toyota multimedia touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five devices are standard. A 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen, cloudbased and navigation are optional.
High mileage wasn’t the designers’ first priority; design and driving experience were. In fact, its aerodynamic efficiency has declined somewhat. But fuel economy is still as high as 57 mpg, the best of any hybrid.
When you sit in the pilot’s seat, the first thing that strikes you is the surprising amount of steering feel. Nicely weighted and satisfyingly quick, it actually has some road feel.
As before, the driveline has different drive modes, and this time around, it noticeably changes torque distribution and steering but not suspension. Nevertheless, the Prius feels planted, with minimal body lean in corners.
For the first time Toyota has eschewed the antidesign, anti-performance mantra that has always marked the Prius’ disposition. It’s now been minimized to allow driving fun to join the party, while still returning 50+ mpg, making it the first Prius you may actually want to drive.