5 Things Actually Make the 2023 Toyota Prius Cool Again
It doesn’t matter if you’re into jacked-up trucks or diesel-guzzling SUVs. You’ve probably heard of the Toyota Prius. It’s been around in the U.S. since 2000 with rampant popularity as a fuel-efficient hybrid. However, after interest dipped in recent years, the 2023 Toyota Prius made some serious upgrades to be back on top.
Is the 2023 Toyota Prius available?
Yes, the 2023 Toyota Prius is available to order, and inventory has reached local dealerships. You can hop in this redesigned hybrid beast for hours of engaging and comfortable driving while saving at the fuel pump.
The new model kicks off the fifth generation, while the fourth generation is probably what you’re used to seeing on the road. This is the first time the Prius has had a significant redesign since 2015, so it was due for some changes.
Older Prius models didn’t exactly hold their style well and have a reputation for being a little slow and possibly boring.
But the new model erases every single complaint about the outgoing model with a sleek redesign, revamped interior, advanced tech, and more power. Check out why the Prius is back on the map.
1. The 2023 Toyota Prius is sporty
I was surprised to see that our 2023 Toyota Prius Limited model doesn’t have steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters because it has the athletic attitude for an engaging performance. It has an instant acceleration with smooth transmission shifts and confident brakes.
It corners well, and the bucket seats are well-bolstered to hold you in place. Seriously, it reimagines what the Prius can do.
With the 2022 Prius, you can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 10.8 seconds, which isn’t exciting. But the 2023 model juices things up to 7.1 seconds for a noticeable difference.
It pairs a 2.0-liter incline-four engine with two electric motors to crank out 196 hp and 139 lb-ft of torque. You get a 60% increase in power without sacrificing the fuel economy.
2. How many mpg does the 2023 Prius get?
The 2023 Toyota Prius gets an EPA-estimated 57 mpg in the city and up to 56 mpg on the highway. During our week of traveling from Rock Hill, SC, to Asheville, NC, and Columba, SC, we hovered around 52.8 mpg.
Our routes included long stretches on the interstate, back country roads, and downtown city areas with red lights. We spent most of our time in Sport Mode, which enhances sporty dynamics and acceleration.
But, in Eco Mode, the hybrid efficiency is improved by limiting power in response to light accelerator input. If we used Eco Mode more, our numbers would probably be improved. Plus, a screen on the digital gauge cluster will coach you to be more efficient.
3. The new Prius model is out of this world
The 2023 Toyota Prius has the style and characteristics of a spaceship. The engine makes a light electronic whirl, and the position of the digital gauge cluster feels like where meters on a personal ship would go.
You sit a bit lower to the floor, and the massive windshield creates the feeling of a dome to provide excellent visibility in every direction. Think about the traditional flying saucer with a low circular body and cock pit on top.
The aerodynamic design that reduces coefficient drag only helps our case. Plus, the modern interior has a vibrant blue interior stripe with a vibrant touchscreen display and brushed metal accents for a futuristic atmosphere.
4. The Prius is comfortable
The 2023 Toyota Prius has excellent front seats. They’re well-padded and sculpted to tailor to various body shapes and sizes. You get hours of comfort on the road, and the automatic climate control system rarely needs to be adjusted.
Plus, the rear seats are well-padded, too. There is enough space in the rear for two adults around 5’5” and under to relax. However, there aren’t rear air vents for them to enjoy. But the seats sit at a relaxed angle.
The Prius provides a smooth ride over most surfaces. Larger impacts can be noticed in the cabin, but bumps are quickly settled. No one on tablets, phones, or even the Nintendo Switch felt car sick during our adventures.
5. The Toyota Prius has nice tech
The tech in the new Toyota Prius model includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that’s easy to connect and a wireless phone charging pad that’s in a convenient location by the center console. It holds your phone in a secure spot that’s easy to access.
Also, the 360-degree camera has an excellent resolution with accurate parking sensors, making getting in and out of tricky situations simple. The automated parking sensor is helpful as well. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is intuitive and fast, plus the voice recognition software is spot on.
The adaptive cruise control system has lane tracing assist, allowing you to relax as the car steers for you while maintaining your preferred distance from other vehicles. It warns you to keep your hands on the wheel to ensure safe operation.
It’s time for the 2023 Toyota Prius to return, and it certainly can with enhanced comfort, power, and tech. However, we have a few complaints regarding cargo space, tech, and more. Stay tuned for our pros and cons.