The new Prius Prime, unveiled this week at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, promises to be the most fuel-efficient Prius ever.
2017 Toyota Prius Prime
During the first press conference at the 2016 New York Auto Show this past Wednesday, Toyota not only unveiled the latest Prius plug-in, it gave the model a new name, to boot.
It's now called the Prius Prime. According to Toyota, "'Prime' means best, making it the perfect name for one of the most technologically advanced, best-equipped Prius in the model’s history."
Based on the same platform as the standard new-generation Prius, the Prime is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and about an inch lower than the outgoing model and features the same double wishbone independent rear suspension as its platform mate.
Both vehicles also share a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine and Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, the biggest difference being that the Prime can be plugged in to recharge its larger 8.8kWh battery pack. With a full charge, it will offer an estimated all-electric range of 22 miles and can be driven at speeds of up to 84 mph without leaving EV mode. The system will also allow drivers to stay in EV mode in more situations, enhancing vehicle range. Toyota estimates that on one 11.3-gallon tank of regular grade gasoline and a full electric charge, the Prius Prime will have a total driving range of over 600 miles.
The Prime will also feature a first for Toyota's Prius line-up: a dual motor generator drive system that uses both the electric motor and the generator for drive force, helping to boost acceleration. Another big plus: using a standard household outlet, a full charge will take around 5.5 hours, while a 240V source will reduce that time by more than half.
Prius Prime exterior
Prime models are also differentiated by unique exterior front and rear styling treatments. Up front, the fascia is dominated by a pair of narrow headlamp housings, each containing 4 LED lamps and deeply recessed side scoops housing fog lamps that bracket a gray-finished "V" shaped central grille.
In addition to a unique lower fascia, the Prime features a stunning upper rear window that continues the "twin bubble" roof theme to the trailing edge of the hatch, which is constructed of carbon fiber. Meanwhile, the vertically-themed taillights of the regular Prius have been replaced by a single LED light band that stretches across the trailing edge of the hatch nearly encircling the lower rear window. The lower fascia features a pair of smaller outboard vertical scoops, housing reflectors that mimic the larger ones up front.
Prius Prime interior
In addition to the length equipment list found on regular Prius models, the Prime gets standard heated front seats and Toyota's best Entune multimedia infotainment system with navigation featuring an 11.6-inch HD tablet display. A suite of Prius Prime Apps will allow owners to, among other things, remotely manage their vehicle's charging schedule, locate charging stations, track and compare eco driving scores with others on social media and control the vehicle's climate system all from their smartphones. Siri Eyes Free mode is also available for iPhone users.
There's also an automatic climate control system that can operate without the engine on, using a heat pump that allows the system to cool or heat the cabin even when driving in EV mode.
2017 Prius Prime pricing and availability
The 2017 Prius Prime will arrive in Toyota dealerships nationwide in late fall, with pricing announced closer to its on-sale date.
