New Toyota Prius – Better Than Ever

The Toyota Prius has long been the automotive equivalent of sensible shoes - practical, efficient, but about as exciting as a wet Wednesday in Wakefield. However, this latest iteration is a revelation that'll have even the most sceptical folk sitting up and taking notice.

Looks That Could Kill

Gone are the days of the Prius looking like it was designed by a committee of accountants. This new model is a proper head-turner. The sleek, almost concept car-like design is a far cry from previous generations.

With its gracefully sloping roofline and wheels pushed right out to the edges, it's got more athletic swagger than a rugby player on match day.

From the front, it looks like something straight out of a sci-fi film, with a glitzy rear light bar that would make even the most reserved crack a smile. It's the kind of car that makes you want to look twice - and that's not something I'd ever thought I'd say about a Prius.

Under the Bonnet: Performance That Surprises

Let's talk performance. The new Prius packs a punch with a 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor combination that delivers a whopping 220hp.

We're talking 0-62mph in just 6.8 seconds - hot hatch territory, not eco-warrior sluggishness. It's quick enough to leave many traditional family cars in its wake, with a top speed of 110mph that'll be more than enough for our traffic-choked roads.

The hybrid system is a marvel. You can cruise up to 53 miles on pure electric power, which means most daily commutes can be completed without burning a drop of petrol. The official fuel economy figure of up to 565mpg is so good it'll make your wallet weep with joy.

Interior: Tech Meets Comfort

Step inside, and you're greeted by a cockpit that's more spaceship than family car. The driver's display sits high, allowing you to check your speed without taking your eyes off the road.

It's packed with tech - a large touchscreen, physical controls (thank heavens - no all-screen nonsense), and a Head-Up Display that feels like something from the future.

The interior is light, airy, and surprisingly comfortable. Those beige and grey tones might sound boring, but they create a sense of space that's genuinely pleasant. My only gripe? The rear seats are a bit tight - more suited to nimble teenagers than full-grown adults.

Driving Experience: Smooth as Silk

The handling is where the new Prius truly shines. It's comfortable over bumps, quiet on the motorway, and surprisingly nimble on twisty roads. The suspension is sophisticated, offering a ride that's more "luxury saloon" than "eco-box". It's not going to set your heart racing like a sports car, but it's genuinely enjoyable to drive - a phrase I never thought I'd use about a Prius.

The Numbers That Matter

Pricing starts from £37,315 OTR, which might seem steep. But when you factor in the incredibly low running costs, potential tax benefits, and the fact you'll be spending pennies on fuel, it starts to look like a bargain. The CO2 emissions are a mere 12-17g/km - lower than ever before.

The Verdict

This isn't just a car for eco-warriors or taxi drivers anymore. The new Prius is a genuinely desirable machine that offers efficiency, performance, and style in one package. It's proof that being sensible doesn't mean being boring.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. It's the first Prius that you might actually want to buy, rather than feel like you should buy. Toyota has created a hybrid that's more than just a rational choice - it's an exciting one. Just don't tell my mates down at the pub I'm singing the praises of a Prius. Some reputations are best kept quiet.

Fast Facts

Toyota Prius
Price from £37,315 OTR (Design Model)
Excel (as driven) £39,955 OTR
220bhp (battery and engine combined)
190Nm torque
0-62mph in 6.8 seconds
Top speed 110mph
Emission 12 – 17 g/km CO2
Combined economy 403.5 - 565mpg
BIK 8%
Insurance group 31
Boot 284 litres