Toyota Prius

Going inside the cabin is like a ride to the future! The mix of black and white in the interior further accentuate the futuristic vibes of the car. The latest Toyota Prius is big on modern technology. The infotainment system comes with a large touchscreen and a powerful audio system with navigation system. Now, it is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Furthermore, you can select a premium system from JBL for the best music experience.

Thinking about the instrument console? Well, it wasn’t placed in a conventional manner. The car’s digital instrument console was placed at the center of the dashboard where data is presented in a futuristic way. Talking about the dashboard, you will be surprised to have it dual-tone that makes it look like a premium car. 

As for the air conditioning system, you’ll get an automatic climate control with AC vents on the sides of the car that has blue surrounds to again highlight its hybrid nature. Its console was positioned vertically with the infotainment system and navigation features. The AC can be controlled through the toggle-like switches.

When it comes to the seating capacity, Prius can fit up to four people but there might just be a problem with the rear space as it’s a little cramped. But still, it provides good ergonomics enough to make you feel comfortable wherever you go.

Other interior and technology features include cruise control, reverse camera, push-button start with keyless entry, and electrically adjustable front driver’s seat with outside rearview mirrors.

Extrovert, radical, and futuristic - these are the best words to describe the exterior design of this hybrid electric car. Although it can somehow be intimidating, its styling is definitely unique that makes it stand out from its class.

As for its front fascia, the Toyota Prius didn’t get to have a grille but it has a very sleek front air dam topped with the blue Toyota logo depicting it is a hybrid vehicle. You can also see a revolutionary and wide difference from a typical sedan when you look at the sides of this vehicle. Although the rest of the exterior including the side doors and windows looks a bit modest, you will get a coupe-like feel when you see its roofing. It looks remarkable with its rear windscreen that has blackened C-pillar.

 The rear of the Toyota Prius is one of its highlights. Its vertical full LED taillamps are placed on the side edges extending all the way to the center meeting the rear boot-mounted spoiler with a stop lamp. This actually makes the Prius look like a modernized sports car that has a lot of bling on it.

This hybrid electric car promises nice steering dynamics. The automakers took their time to elevate the handling game for the Prius which eventually improved its performance. Although you cannot expect an athletic performance and track-ready acceleration with this car, you can still leverage the improved steering accuracy and ease of cornering or maneuvering through tight curves.

Prius’ powertrain still hosts a 1786cc Hybrid Synergy Drive, Variable Valve Timing - Intelligent, 4-cylinder in-line DOHC, 16-valve. The combination of the 1.8-liter petrol engine and lithium-ion battery can fire up to 73 PS at 5200 rpm and 142 Nm torque at 4000 revs per minute. The car’s mill is mated with an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with ECO and EV Mode Settings.

It has an estimated fuel efficiency of 40.5 kmpl. Its engine aside from being fuel efficient is also eco-friendly. Apart from emitting less carbon dioxide into the air, you can also save up for buying petrol. In fact, in 2007, it was rated as among the cleanest vehicles sold in the United States based on smog-forming emissions by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board. Moreover, the 2018 model year Prius Eco ranked as the second most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered car available in the US without plug-in capability.

Toyota employs ventilated and solid discs for the front and rear braking system, respectively. 

As for the safety features, it is equipped with the standard SRS airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, engine immobilizer, Traction Control, Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist, heads-up display, ISOFIX mounts for the child seats, tire pressure monitoring system, and Vehicle Stability Control.

In addition, the Japan-based automaker included the Safety Connect System on all of their models. What’s good about this feature is that in the event of an accident, breakdown, or any emergency, you can easily get in touch with responding authorities for help. Its latest model also provides additional driver-assist programs like Pre-Collision Detection and Lane Departure Alert.

Although the common notion for Prius is being too pricey, it is safe to say that this car can be worth the money. Given the technology and safety features, it has as well as the very eye-pleasing modern design and decent engine performance, this can be an ideal car for someone who has a small family or a bachelor who’s looking for a nice car to drive for daily commutes or business affairs. 

We cannot also take away the fact that this car is eco-friendly and fuel-efficient. Electric cars are like the future of transportation and the automotive industry so having a hybrid one can be a good investment for the future.