Toyota has been a longtime leader in the electric vehicle market, with Prius models taking front and center in helping to pave the way for the automaker's EV success. Now, there is another model that is sure to take Toyota’s hybrid efforts to the next level: the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime.
It will replace the previous Prius Plug-In Hybrid and is expected to be a huge hit with consumers who are looking for standout style and fuel efficiency. Even though official EPA numbers have not come out yet, Toyota forecasts the Prime will achieve a rating of 120 miles per gallon or better. If those numbers hold, then the Prime will be the most fuel efficient plug-in hybrid out there.
In addition, Toyota also expects a combined rating of 52 mpg when the car is running on gasoline power. Plus, it should achieve an impressive total range of 600 miles with a fully-charged battery and topped off gas tank.
On the outside, the Prius Prime seems to have carried over all of the same specs as other Prius models; however, that is not entirely true. Design differences include a new front fascia, and LED taillights that are horizontal, compared to the vertical lights found on other Prius versions.
Inside, the Prime offers navigational functions that are easy to operate, along with a large, tablet-style infotainment display. Plus, it lets drivers easily connect to smartphone applications that make it easy to find battery charging stations across the country.
The car will be equipped with the same drivetrain as the current Prius, with the exception of an 8.8-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery underneath the back seat.
Safety-wise, purchasers of the new vehicle will have the option of additional safety equipment, like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
We anticipate that the all-new Prius Prime will be available at Texas Toyota of Grapevine in late 2016. However, in the meantime, stop by our dealership and take the 2016 Toyota Prius for a spin, and learn why so many drivers are choosing it as their next new car!
