This is the new fifth-generation Toyota Prius

The fifth-generation Toyota Prius has been revealed today with a complete redesign and new-found focus on driving.

Surprisingly, the world’s go to car for efficiency hasn’t gone fully electric like many of us would’ve thought.

Either way, the new Prius has been left up to those behind the wheel whether they will “love it” or simply use it as a “commodity”.

Hybrid only powertrain

Instead of going full electric, the new Prius retains the hybrid status model is well known for, featuring the choice of two different powertrain layouts.

First up is the 2.0-litre petrol engine plug-in hybrid system which produces a maximum power output of 164kW.

The PHEV system is made up of Toyota’s Dynamic Force Engine and lithium-ion batteries which is said to maintain the same efficiency as the previous model. It can also accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds.

Also available is the choice of a 1.8- or 2.0-litre series parallel hybrid system which uses the petrol engine as a petrol-powered generator for the battery. This system sends a combined 144kW of power to the electric motors on each axle which makes up Toyota’s latest E-Four all-wheel drive system.

The PHEV model also features a solar charging system which can generate enough power for 1250km of driving per year.

Familiar but stylish exterior

When looking at the car from the side, a familiar silhouette is apparent. That’s because Toyota took inspiration from its previous models while adding “more stylish proportions”.

The aforementioned additions include a lower-to-the-ground appearance while 19-inch wheels now fill up much of the arch space.

Up front, a familiar look to the fully electric bZ4X is present featuring sharp headlights and a pointy nose. A simple yet “sculpted” body leads into the rear of the car where the full width tail light spans from left to right.

A more focussed driving experience inside

Toyota has developed the new Prius’ interior to be more spacious, supposedly making it easier to concentrate on driving.

Much of the colouring is kept simple with black tones but adds a sense of “sportiness” and new “sophistication” with its angular design.

An ambient lighting element runs between each side of the interior which also acts as a warning light if the car detects an object ahead.

In terms of displays, a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen is centrally-mounted while a digital driver’s display sits high on the dashboard.

Safety features include the Toyota Safety Sense monocular camera at the front, a rear-facing camera for the Digital Inner Mirror, and an in-vehicle drive recorder.

The model is also equipped with two 100 VAC/1500 W accessory power outlets with one at the back of the center console and one in the cargo space.

Pricing and availability

Pricing has yet to be announced for the new Prius but Toyota has said the model will be launched in North America, Europe, and “other countries” around the world.

Japanese customers can also get behind the wheel through the Kinto car subscription service.

Further details will be announced later this year.

As of November 17, Toyota New Zealand has confirmed the new Prius won’t be coming to our shores.