Toyota's 2017 Prius Prime tries to reinvent the hybrid platform

While popular in certain markets, Toyota's long standing Prius line of hybrid electric passenger cars would never win awards for styling or looks. This is all about to change with the redesigned Prius Prime which brings a new look and upgrades many of the key Prius features.

Essentially the second generation of the Prius line, the Prius Prime adds a bigger battery pack and a range of 22 miles (35 kilometres) on its electric component. In terms of styling, the front end of the Prius Prime has been boldly redesigned and looks more in tune with current Toyota models.

Slated to ship in the fall, the new Prius Prime boasts a manufacturer-estimated 120 or above MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) is expected to be the highest MPGe rating of any Plug-in Hybrid.* It also represents a substantial 26-percent enhancement over its predecessor, a result of greater battery capacity and an improved hybrid system. In hybrid mode, the Prius Prime is targeting a hybrid MPG equal to or better than the Prius liftback.

Prius Prime takes approximately 5.5 hours using a standard household outlet. Charging takes less than half the time with a 240V source.

Source: Toyota