Toyota Motor Corporation’s revolutionary hybrid car, the new Prius, will undergo some improvements and be released in Japan on July 1, 2025. Prices range from 2,769,800 yen to 4,608,900 yen, with the PHEV special edition G “Night Shade” going for 3,947,300 yen.
The main focus of this improvement is the expansion of safety equipment, strengthening of connectivity functions, the addition of the special edition Prius Night Shade, and price revisions.
Toyota will be fully redesigning the fifth-generation Prius, releasing it on January 10, 2023. This is quite unusual, as Toyota has generally been redesigning the car annually recently. Indeed, this Prius is equipped with some of the most advanced features among Toyota vehicles, so there are few areas that need improvement. The Japanese model will not be updated until July 2025, two and a half years from now.
Release date : Scheduled for release in Japan on July 1, 2025
Main improvements :
- Enhanced safety equipment
- Enhanced connectivity features
- Special edition Prius Night Shade added
- Price revision
Enhanced safety features :
- Black shark fin antenna comes standard on all grades
- Cold-weather specifications and ETC2.0 are standard equipment on all grades
- Digital inner mirror comes standard on the “Z” grade
- Front and rear drive recorders are standard on the “Z” grade
- Blind spot monitor “Support for approaching nearby vehicles (recording function)” is standard equipment on the “Z” grade
Connectivity enhancements :
- 12.3-inch Display Audio (compatible with connected navigation) Plus is standard on the “Z” grade
Price Change :
- Prices are expected to rise due to improved equipment
- Toyota strives to maintain price competitiveness
Market impact :
- Strengthening competitiveness with rival models
- Expected to establish leadership in the hybrid car market
Toyota’s new Prius partial improvement 2025 model
Enhanced safety features: Digital inner mirror + front and rear drive recorders as standard
The biggest highlight of the partial improvement of the new Prius is the significant enhancement of safety equipment. In recent years, the demand for dashcams has increased rapidly due to the need to record traffic accidents and increased safety awareness. With this improvement, a digital inner mirror and front and rear dashcams will be standard equipment on the “Z” grade.
The digital inner mirror is a system that displays the image from a camera behind the vehicle on the rearview mirror, ensuring a clear rear view even when the view is obstructed by passengers or luggage in the back seat.It also provides a clearer image than a regular rearview mirror, even at night or in bad weather, supporting safe driving.
Front and rear drive recorders are devices that record video footage from the front and rear of the vehicle, and are useful for understanding the situation in the event of an accident and raising awareness of safe driving. With this new standard equipment, there is no longer a need to install an additional drive recorder after purchase, which will also reduce the burden on buyers.
The inclusion of these safety features as standard equipment will significantly improve the safety of the new Prius, providing a safer driving environment.
Enhanced connectivity features: Display Audio Plus now standard
This improvement also strengthens connectivity functions. Display Audio Plus, which integrates smartphone connectivity and navigation functions, will be standard equipment on the “Z” grade.
Display Audio Plus features a large touchscreen display for intuitive operation. Smartphone connectivity allows for safe music playback, hands-free calling, and messaging. The navigation function also utilizes the latest map data and traffic information to guide you to the optimal route to your destination.
With this new standard equipment, the new Prius offers a more comfortable and convenient travel experience, meeting the needs of modern drivers.
Special edition “Prius Night Shade”
The most notable feature of this improvement is the introduction of the special edition Prius Nightshade.
Based on the PHEV G grade, it features exclusive black-painted aluminum wheels and gloss black bumpers, further enhancing the sporty appeal of the Prius.
Special edition Prius Nightshade
- Exterior:
- 19-inch black aluminum wheels
- Black exterior badges
- Black shark fin antenna
- Black front door handles
- Black bumper trim
- Interior:
- Black SofTex® front seats (8-way adjustable)
- Carbon fiber-look dashboard decoration
Special edition vehicle “Prius Nightshade Package”
Body color:
- Limited edition color: Vivid yellow “Mustard”
- Other: Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl
Other predictions
The US model will be upgraded from the 2023 model to the 2024 model , and the Prius will only gain integrated streaming functionality and a new lock/unlock chime. It’s possible that some of these features will be included in the next Japanese model upgrade. When the Prius is upgraded, it’s possible that a sports grade, the GR SPORT, will be added. The previous model had a GR SPORT grade in the Prius PHV lineup. Furthermore, Toyota’s Japanese lineup includes the Aqua, Yaris Cross, Land Cruiser 300, Hilux, and Copen, so it’s only natural that the current Prius would join this.
Toyota Prius
If you drive your current, fifth Prius, you’ll understand that the car has shifted from being fuel-efficient to being a “car that’s comfortable to drive.” It comes standard with 19-inch tires, and the sloping body shape shows that it’s become a car that suits a sports model. I think the GR SPORT Prius is a natural progression in this regard.
Price revision
Along with the enhancement of equipment, a price revision is also planned. The specific price range has not yet been announced, but considering the level of equipment, a price increase is expected to be unavoidable. However, Toyota Motor Corporation will strive to maximize the added value of this improvement and maintain price competitiveness.
Toyota’s new Prius 2025 model price and grade
KINTO Unlimited , a new car subscription service , was launched today and will be available starting with the new Prius U grade ( exclusive to KINTO Unlimited ). The price will increase by up to 150,000 yen for the Z grade.
| grade | engine | transmission |
Drive system |
Price (10%) |
New price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | Inline 4-cylinder 1.8L engine + motor |
Electric continuously variable transmission |
2WD | 2,750,000 yen | 2,769,800 yen |
| X E-Four | 4WD (E-Four) |
2,970,000 yen | 2,970,000 yen | ||
| U | 2WD | 2,999,000 yen | 3,009,800 yen | ||
| U E-Four | 4WD (E-Four) |
3,210,000 yen | 3,210,000 yen | ||
| G | Inline 4-cylinder 2.0L engine + motor |
2WD | 3,200,000 yen | 3,247,300 yen | |
| G E-Four | 4WD (E-Four) |
3,420,000 yen | 3,447,500 yen | ||
| Z | 2WD | 3,700,000 yen | 3,870,500 yen | ||
| Z E-Four | 4WD (E-Four) |
3,920,000 yen | 4,070,700 yen |
Toyota’s new Prius exterior
Toyota released the new Prius on January 10, 2023. The previous model was released on December 9, 2015, marking the first full model change in seven years . The new Prius will be available in upgrade and connected trims (exclusive to the KINTO Unlimited) . The plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) is scheduled for release around March 2023. The new model features a hammerhead-inspired front design that combines functionality and design at a high level, and the full model change has resulted in the adoption of large, U-shaped DRLs (daytime running lights) with signature lamps. Standard headlights are likely to include Bi-Beam LED headlights, LED turn signals, LED clearance lamps, and LED fog lamps. The rear features horizontally aligned taillights. Toyota vehicles like the Harrier and Crown also feature horizontally aligned taillights.
While retaining the Prius’ unique, iconic “monoform silhouette,” it has been reborn with a lower center of gravity and stylish proportions. The simple yet expressive body design expresses “emotions that resonate with the senses” and “universal beauty” that will ensure it remains a beloved car for many years to come.
Toyota’s new Prius body color
There are eight body colors available, two of which are newly developed solid-color base colors that give a sporty impression: “Ash (1M2)” and “Mustard (5C5) . “
- Ash<1M2>
- Mustard <5C5>
- Dark Blue <8Q4>
- Emotional Red II <3U5>
- Platinum White Pearl Mica <089>
- Attude Black Mica <218>
- Super White II <040>
- Silver Metallic <1L0>
About the interior of the new Toyota Prius
The interior will do away with the “center meter” and adopt a digital meter at the front. Following the trend of Toyota cars such as the new “MIRAI”, “Crown” and “Harrier”, the instrument panel will likely be redesigned to be more user-friendly by changing the air conditioning vents and moving the navigation display to a higher position. An ” 8-inch or 12.3-inch display audio ” will be adopted. Furthermore, an “electric parking brake & hold” will be adopted. A “digital inner mirror (with front and rear recording function)” will display images from a camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle on the rearview mirror. It will also have a recording function.
The “island architecture” concept combines a spacious, unobtrusive interior with a cockpit that allows the driver to concentrate on driving. The interior space is intuitive and allows for enjoyable driving.
Toyota’s new Prius features the second-generation TNGA platform
Based on the well-established TNGA platform, Toyota has developed the second-generation TNGA platform, which has been improved to realize the emotional design and driving performance of the new Prius, achieving a lower center of gravity and the adoption of larger diameter tires.
Hybrid system (2.0L prototype)
About the new Toyota Prius fifth-generation hybrid system
Both the 2.0L and 1.8L models are equipped with the latest “5th-generation hybrid system.” The 1.8L models (U and X grades) have undergone repeated refinements and have all of their electric modules redesigned, achieving fuel economy of 32.6 km/L. The driving experience has also been refined, offering seamless acceleration unique to hybrids, as well as a light start and a direct driving response. The 2.0L models (Z and G grades) achieve fuel economy that exceeds that of the previous model (28.6 km/L), while achieving a maximum system output of 144 kW (196 PS), 1.6 times that of the previous model. This combines the Prius’s distinctive environmental friendliness with a high level of “captivating driving” with breathtaking acceleration and responsiveness that responds exactly to the driver’s wishes. The latest E-Four engine is available. The adoption of a high-output motor further improves hill-climbing performance on snowy and other low-friction surfaces, as well as cornering stability.
Toyota’s new Prius features Toyota Safety Sense safety equipment
Toyota Safety Sense has been improved and fine-tuned to further enhance safety technology ( including nighttime pedestrian detection and a preceding vehicle departure notification function ). The previous name “Toyota Safety Sense P/C” has been unified as “Toyota Safety Sense” to become a collision avoidance support package. Intelligent clearance sonar (parking support brake) is standard equipment on all models except for the G “X”. The vehicle is now a “Safety Support Car S (Wide)” eligible vehicle.
The new fifth-generation Prius will adopt the “Next Generation Toyota Safety Sense,” replacing the ” Toyota Safety Sense P ” used in the fourth-generation Prius, which will significantly add functionality and improve safety.
“Pre-Collision Safety” can recognize pedestrians and bicycles at night , “Lane Departure Alert” increases the number of road detection items, and “Lane Tracing Assist” assists the driver in steering to keep the vehicle in the center of the same lane when using radar cruise control , reducing the burden on the driver .
Road Sign Assist displays road signs (‘speed limit’, ‘stop’, ‘no entry’, ‘no going outside’) on the instrument panel to prevent you from forgetting to look.
The “electric parking brake and hold” system, which is now a minor feature , was not adopted in the previous model but will be adopted in the new model. The ” panoramic view and wide front view function ” allows you to look down from above, making parking easier, and allowing you to easily check the parking position and obstacles in blind spots. Beyond appearances, the fourth and fifth generations have made significant improvements. The equipment is overwhelming compared to cars in the same class. It is equipped with a 12.3-inch display audio (optional).
| System equipment | 4th generation Prius |
5th generation new Prius |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Safety Sense |
Pre-crash safety system with collision avoidance support |
◯ Daytime pedestrians |
Daytime and nighttime pedestrians , bicycles, and motorcycles |
| Proactive Driving Assist |
– | ◯ | |
| Lane Departure Alert ( with steering control function) |
Steering control White line/yellow line detection Wobble alarm |
Steering control White/yellow line detection Road edge detection Wandering alarm |
|
| Adaptive High Beam System |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Radar cruise control (with full-speed tracking function) |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Lane Tracing Assist |
– | ◯ | |
| Road Sign Assist: Reading traffic signs |
– | ◯ | |
| Leading vehicle departure notification | – | ◯ | |
| preventative safety equipment |
Blind Spot Monitor |
◯ | ◯ |
| Intelligent Clearance Sonar |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Advanced Park remote function |
– | ◯ | |
| Safe Exit Assist (SEA) | – | ◯ | |
| Driver emergency response system |
– | ◯ | |
| Hill Start Assist Control |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Panoramic View Monitor |
– | ◯ | |
| Comfortable equipment |
Comfortable heated seat + seat ventilation |
◯ | ◯ |
| Heated steering wheel | – | ◯ | |
| Digital inner mirror (with front and rear recording function) |
– | ◯ | |
| ITS Connect | ◯ | ◯ | |
| Electric parking brake & hold |
– | ◯ | |
| power seats | ◯ | ◯ | |
| Hands-free power tailgate |
– | ◯ | |
| Head-up display |
◯ | ◯ | |
| Digital Key | – | ◯ | |
| Navigation-less | ◯ | – | |
| Toyota Display Audio |
– | ◯ * Excluding base grade X |
|
| In-vehicle communication device (DCM) | – | ◯ | |
Toyota’s new Prius specs
| Specifications | New Prius 1.8L (X/U) |
New Prius 2.0L (G/Z) |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,600mm | 4,600mm |
| Overall width | 1,780mm | 1,780mm |
| Overall height | 1,430mm | 1,420mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,750mm | 2,750mm |
| engine | Inline 4 DOHC 1.8L + motor ( series-parallel hybrid with reduction mechanism ) |
Inline 4 DOHC 2.0L + motor ( series-parallel hybrid with reduction mechanism ) |
| Maximum power | 72kW (98ps) / 5,200rpm |
112kW (152ps) |
| Maximum torque | 142Nm (14.5kgm) / 3,600rpm |
188Nm (19.2kgm) / 4,400-5,200rpm |
| Front motor maximum output |
70kW (95PS) |
83kW (113PS) |
| Front motor maximum torque |
185Nm (18.9kgfm) |
206Nm (21.0kgfm) |
| Rear motor maximum output |
30kW (41PS) |
30kW (41PS) |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
84Nm (8.6kgfm) |
84Nm (8.6kgfm) |
| System Output | 103kW (140ps) |
144kW (190PS) |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 32.6km/L | 28.6km/L |
Awards won by the fifth-generation Toyota Prius
The Japan Car of the Year Executive Committee announced at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 7, 2023 that Toyota’s new Prius has won the Grand Prize for the 2023-2024 Japan Car of the Year.
Toyota’s new Prius and Prius Prime (known as the Prius PHEV in Japan ) won the 2024 North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) award on January 8, 2024 (local time). This shows that the new Prius is highly regarded around the world.
How many Priuses are sold?
Sales volume in 2024
The production suspension has had an impact in 2024, and the number of units has not recovered.
| year and month | Sales volume |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | 8,550 units |
| February 2024 | 9,190 units |
| March 2024 | 11,316 units |
| April 2024 | 4,452 units |
| May 2024 | 1,422 units |
| June 2024 | 1,860 units |
| July 2024 | 7,046 units |
| August 2024 | 5,909 units |
| September 2024 | 7,771 units |
| October 2024 | 9,337 units |
| November 2024 | 9,774 units |
| December 2024 | 6,858 units |
| total | 83,485 units |
Toyota Prius registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
Toyota 5th Generation New Prius Test Drive Impressions and Review
First, let me be frank about my experience driving the car. The second-generation TNGA platform delivers excellent straight-line stability and handling, and I can clearly see the low center of gravity and body rigidity. What surprised me most was the precision of the radar cruise control. It’s even more accurate than my current Harrier, which is supposed to be a higher-grade car, and I’m jealous. The accuracy of the lane detection, along with the ability to detect and notify pedestrians cutting in, and the ability to slow down on curves are particularly impressive. I previously owned the previous fourth-generation model, and I felt there were far too many advancements. The car I drove was a 2.0L hybrid, and while the long driving time of the electric motor is impressive, the engine noise is quite strong inside the cabin, which may be a bit of a concern for some , and I felt it was an area for further improvement. The excellent visibility, interior design, and the generous use of soft padding were also impressive. Since the car I drove was the Z grade, it was equipped with 19-inch aluminum wheels, and as expected, the ride felt a bit bumpy over bumps and other obstacles.
Thoughts on the new 5th generation Prius
The Prius, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, has been on sale since 1997 by Toyota, and has always been packed with the latest Toyota technology. The fifth-generation model boasts impressive features for its class, including the latest hybrid system and safety features. The lineup includes two hybrid systems and a 2.0L model, making it a model that combines comfort with fuel economy. However, times have changed, and while the Prius was the only vehicle to feature Toyota’s hybrid system up until the fourth generation, fewer people are choosing the Prius these days, as many Toyota vehicles now use similar hybrid systems. We hope to see further improvements and trends in the Prius to further enhance its value.
A word from the editorial department
The partial improvement of the new Prius, which will be released in July 2025, mainly consists of enhanced safety features, enhanced connectivity functions, and a price revision. These improvements will evolve the new Prius into a safer, more comfortable, and more attractive hybrid car.
The new Prius will continue to attract attention as a model that will lead the hybrid car market. We will be keeping a close eye on future developments to see what impact these improvements will have on the market.
Toyota News Release
https://global.toyota/jp/newsroom/toyota/43009519.html
Toyota Prius
Toyota
