The 5th generation Toyota Prius (XW60) marks a radical break in the model's history. Gone is the divisive design purely dictated by aerodynamics: this iteration adopts a sleek coupe silhouette, lowered by 50 mm, and is based on the second-generation TNGA-C platform. While it sacrifices some rear passenger space and trunk volume for style, it gains significantly in dynamism and performance. The 5th generation hybrid system offers a spectacular leap in power (up to 223 hp in PHEV) while maintaining formidable efficiency. In Europe, it is only sold as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, while other markets benefit from standard hybrid (HEV) versions.
The 5th generation Toyota Prius is a tour de force. By sacrificing some of its purely utilitarian aspects (trunk, headroom) in favor of a desirable design and top-tier performance, Toyota has reinvented its icon. In terms of reliability, the TNGA platform and powertrains (proven 1.8L or 2.0L from the Dynamic Force family) are absolute benchmarks in the market. The only real drawback concerns the recall of the rear door handles (to be checked imperatively on recent used models) and the very high entry price in Europe due to the exclusivity of the PHEV powertrain. It is a highly recommended purchase for its peace of mind and negligible running costs.