2023 Toyota Prius Is All New With Slick Looks, Optional Solar Roof Panels
The 2023 Toyota Prius was unveiled Wednesday in Europe, giving prospective U.S. buyers a first look at the company's iconic hybrid before its reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this week. The Prius has gone plug-in permanently for 2023, with 220 hp in Europe and optional solar roof panels.
The 2023 Prius is based on the second generation of Toyota's GA-C platform, which allows for a lower center of gravity thanks to optimized placement of the battery cells and fuel tank. It also improves the car's handling, though it's unlikely the average Prius buyer will make regular use of its increased sportiness. The exterior is all new, with an "iconic wedge shape" design Toyota says is inspired by "the natural flow of air." The wheelbase is 1.98 inches longer than before, but overall length actually decreases by 1.81 inches. The interior has taken a huge leap forward, with a new seven-inch digital gauge cluster and a dashboard with a massive infotainment screen.
The biggest upgrade comes to the drivetrain. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four makes 148 hp on its own, though when combined with a transaxle-mounted electric motor, total output jumps to 220 horses. For some context, that's nearly as much as the new GR86. In a Prius! Toyota says most of the Prius's driving will take place in pure EV mode thanks to denser cells in the 13.6-kWh battery. In addition to charging via the engine or a charging station, the cells can also be charged via optional solar cells on the roof.
The U.S.-spec Prius, which is expected to be revealed at this week's L.A. Auto Show, will likely share much of the same design and powertrain features. Expect it to go on sale some time next year.
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