2017 TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME FIRST LOOK

2017 TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid is now the all-new 2017 Prius Prime, flaunting a 133 MPGe rating, a 26% enhancement over its predecessor.

Stemming from greater battery capacity and an improved hybrid system, the Prius Prime also exceeds all competitors’ fuel economy ratings in its gasoline-electric hybrid mode with an EPA-estimated 54mpg in combined driving leading to a class-leading drive range of 640 miles.

For the first time in a Toyota hybrid, the system uses a “dual motor drive.” Regenerative braking recaptures electrical energy under deceleration and braking and stores it in the battery, which helps to reduce fuel consumption. There’s no special equipment needed for home charging. Just plug the Prius Prime into a standard household outlet using the supplied cable. Charging in this manner takes less than five-and-a-half hours, or approximately two hours when using a public charger or other 240V source.

A hybrid-friendly 1.8-liter 4-cylinder completes the system leading to combined net output of 121 horsepower. In pure electric EV mode, the Prius Prime can travel up to 25 miles at speeds as high as 84 mph without ever using a drop of gas. The Prius Prime can even optimize range by memorizing the driver’s stopping patterns on frequently driven routes and suggesting when to let off the accelerator.

Available Predictive Efficient Drive with Predictive Deceleration Support collects daily driving data to predict points of deceleration and stopping. From then on, when the driver goes through a location in the database, the system indicates when to let off the accelerator and can apply assisted deceleration to help boost fuel efficiency.

Utilizing a sports car-type double wishbone rear suspension with exclusive tuning, the Prius Prime has an enhanced planted stance through curves.  Not just a Prius copycat, the Prime receives its own unique styling with more flair and a 4-seat cabin layout.

Available in Plus, Premium and Advanced pricing starts at just under $28,000 including destination.