In my last post, I mentioned that the Prius may be the ideal delivery vehicle. If so, the incoming 2023 model will be an even better one!
I recall attending a used car auction years ago, in which I heard cab drivers were scooping up old Priuses for their amazing longevity. This is Toyota’s legacy. Of course, it’s the battery that has a less impressive history. The newest incarnation will improve everything – including those batteries.
Toyota has improved styling, engineering, performance, safety, you name it. The new body styling has a lower roof line and looks like a Prius and a Dodge Dart had a child.
Inside, the lower center of gravity from the battery pack re-placement means that the rear seats fold flat for a large cargo throughway. You may remember how lots of paneling and structural members arched around the battery pack in older models.
The battery pack holds 15% more power, and the engine is now 2-Liter. The result is a couple less seconds in the 0-60. There is even an optional AWD for an even quicker 0-60 of 7 seconds!
This new car offers Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes that may entice a wider audience. So long as the launch doesn’t go the way of the BZ4X, this is a car I could see myself driving.
What’s more? How about a 12.3″ touch screen, OTA updates, and safety and tech features to match any modern car? I’m starting to sound like a salesman. I may just forget about the Aptera and set my sights on this! I love a well thought out car that checks all of the boxes and fits the times. Heck, the AWD model looks like a very well-rounded machine!
Has the Prius gone too Hollywood? Does it need a touchscreen? I’m glad that Toyota has improved exterior styling and made it peppier. Time will tell if this new model withstands punishment well. It just makes sense to do away with the ridiculous exterior styling. It is my hope that the touch screen is robust enough to last. Sometimes, tech overextends itself to be more than it should and simple is the best solution.