2022 Toyota Prius Review

The Toyota Prius is one of the most fuel efficient hybrids in the New Zealand market offering up to 25km/l. it is also loved by many drivers due to its comfortable cabin, reliability and advanced safety features. The Toyota Prius rivals with the Honda Insight, Nissan Note Hybrid and Honda Fit Hybrid.

2022 Toyota Prius front View.

Introduction

The Toyota Prius has been in production since 1997 and is currently in the Fifth generation. The first generation XW10 was produced from 1997 to 2000. The second generation XW20 was produced from 2003 to 2008, the third generation XW30 was produced from 2009 to  2014, and the fourth generation XW50 was produced from 2015 to 201. The fifth generation has been in production from 2022 to present.

Engines

The 2022 Toyota Prius comes with two engine options the  1.8L 2ZR-FXE I4 engine and the 2.0 L M20A-FXS I4 engine which are paired with an electric motor. The two engines use an electric continuously variable transmission (CVT). For a detailed insight on the 2ZR-FXE I4 and M20A-FXS I4 engines refer to the Toyota Prius Buyers Guide.

2022 Toyota Prius Grades

1. 2022 Toyota Prius X: This is the base model that comes standard with features such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and LED headlights.
2. 2022 Toyota Prius U: The U grade adds features such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats.
3. 2022 Toyota Prius G: The G grade is the most popular grade of Prius that adds features such as a JBL sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a blind spot monitoring system.
4. 2022 Toyota Prius Z: The Z grade is the top-of-the-line grade that adds features such as a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a navigation system.

Interior

The 2022 Toyota Prius has an airy cabin that offers a generous amount of space to the passengers. In the first row, the seats are supportive and well-cushioned with ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder space for the driver and the front passenger. In the second row, the seats also offer enough legroom for even adults to stretch out. The headroom is a bit tight for taller adults due to the Prius’ sloping roofline towards the rear.

Cargo Space

The 2022 Toyota Prius offers a cargo space of 27.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is enough space to accommodate luggage such as groceries.

2022 Toyota Prius cargo space.

Exterior

The 2022 Toyota Prius has a sleek, aerodynamic exterior design that is sure to turn heads on the road. The front end features a distinct wedge shape with sharp lines and a large grille. The headlights are swept back and narrow, and the daytime running lights are C shaped. The side profile is smooth and uncluttered, with a character line that runs from the front wheel arch to the rear. The rear end is also simple, with a full-width taillight bar and a raised trunk lid. The 2022 Prius has a number of color options including; white, black, silver, blue, and red.

Safety Features; The 2022 Toyota Prius features Toyota Safety Sense which includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure alert with steering assist, road-sign recognition, auto high beam, a reversing camera and seven airbags, and autonomous emergency braking.

Performance

The 2022 Prius generally offers decent handling and acceleration for a hybrid despite not being a performance car. The Prius is not as agile as a sports car, but it’s still capable of taking corners without feeling too ponderous. It also has a smooth ride and absorbs road imperfections nicely thanks to its well-tuned suspension system and the Toyota’s TNGA platform.  It is easy to maneuver in tight spaces and it feels planted on the road.

The 2022 Prius also has strong brakes that provide good stopping power. They are easy to modulate, which makes it easy to stop smoothly.

Additionally, the  2022 Toyota Prius is available with an all-wheel drive system. This system uses an electric motor to power the rear wheels, which helps the Prius stay stable in slippery conditions. The system uses an electric motor to power the back wheels, and it can transfer up to 50% of the power to the rear wheels.

2022 Toyota Prius engine.

Reliability

The 2022 Toyota Prius is regarded as a reliable hybrid as it has proved itself as a dependable car over the years. Since its introduction two decades ago, the Prius has undergone several changes to make it a reliable hatchback. Most Toyota Prius owners have not complained about the car as it has served them without any major issues.

However a few owners have complained about the hybrid battery,  Center multi-function display failure and incorrect reading on the fuel gauge. If you are planning to own or currently own the Toyota Prius, it is important you read the Buyers Guide and the Owner’s Manual.

Pros

• Excellent fuel economy
• optional all-wheel drive
• Quiet cabin

Cons

• uninspiring performance
• Sluggish acceleration

Conclusion

The 2022 Toyota Prius offers good performance for a hybrid car. It may not be the most exciting hatchback to drive, but it is still a fun and efficient car to own. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient car with good handling and a smooth ride, the 2022 Toyota Prius is a good option to consider.

2022 Toyota Prius side profile.