Toyota is updating the low-slung, plug-in hybrid Prius for 2025, which the Japanese car maker says is designed to create “a more efficient and convenient” car.
Smae PHEV system
There are no mechanical changes, so the Prius keeps its 223hp 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain, which comes with enough battery capacity to provide it with up to 86km of electric-only range on the WLTP test (and a claimed 110km if you’re driving around town). The claimed fuel economy remains at 0.5 litres per 100km; the official CO2 figure is just 11g/km.
Geo-fencing tech
The big new addition for 2025 is geo-fencing. This system is designed to help Prius owners comply with legislation in some cities around the world mandating that only cars running on zero-emissions power can drive through their centres. Currently, nowhere in Ireland has such a zero-emissions zone, but it could certainly be a helpful addition if you’re planning on taking your Prius for a driving holiday.
The geo-fencing setup works when you put a destination into the satellite navigation system. The Prius can now automatically recognise when the programmed route will take you through such a zero-emissions zone, and it can also work in the background while you drive, ensuring that there’s enough charge kept in the car’s battery pack so that you can drive through the zero emissions zone on, of course, zero emissions.
Smart key and wireless charging
There are some other smaller updates, including new compatibility with a digital smart key, which means you can use your smartphone as a key and even share access to your Prius with up to five other people via Toyota’s phone app. There’s also now a handy wireless phone charging tray in the Prius’ centre console.
The Prius’ Toyota’s T-Mate system and Toyota Safety Sense active driver aids and safety systems have also been kept up to date to ensure that the car remains at the cutting edge of safety technology.
The updated Prius is now on sale in Europe, and we’ll update this piece when we have Irish prices and specifications.