The new Toyota Prius PHV (Plug-in Hybrid) is now officially on sale in Europe. This is the second-gen Prius PHV offered in the continent and boasts an improved EV range of 50km – that’s twice as much as its successor!
Based largely on the Prius Prime, the PHV actually looks a little less exciting than the standard fourth-generation Prius. Apart from subtle design tweaks to the fascia, the grille now receives an automatic shutter which closes to reduce drag when cooling air isn’t required.
At the back, it has a longer rear overhang and a new rear spoiler adds the final touch to differentiate itself with the standard Prius. Drag coefficient is rated at 0.25, which is slightly higher than the regular Prius and the Hyundai Ioniq. The Prius PHV pictured here is finished in the Spirited Aqua colour, and is exclusive to the model.
Just like the other Prius, the 2ZR-FXE 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine is paired with a electric motors, delivering a total output of 120 hp. Power is delivered via the usual e-CVT.
A new and improved 8.8kWh battery is double the capacity from before, juicing the new Dual Motor Drive. Toyota says EV power is significantly better (83 percent higher boost) over its predecessor. A full charge from zero takes about three hours using a domestic socket.
It sprints from 0 to 100km/h in 11.1 seconds and top speed is 162 km/h. What truly stands out is the fuel consumption figure – an unbelievable 1.0 litres per 100 km! This means the Prius PHV is currently the cleanest PHEV to have ever existed!
The Prius PHV sits atop the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), therefore sharing salient traits such as strong and rigid chassis, lower centre of gravity and sharper handling. As for now, the fourth-gen Prius has yet to be offered to our market.
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