Selected members of the national motoring press were recently invited to test-drive the all-new fifth generation Toyota Prius on UK roads. Available exlusively on these shores as a plug-in hybrid model, the model offers stand-out style as well as greater efficiency than ever before. But what did the professional road testers think of this sleek new model? What were their 2024 Toyota Prius reviews?
Below is a selection of excerpts from their published reviews, which include a numerical rating where applicable. To read the full online reports, click on the emboldened links.
2024 Toyota Prius reviews
“The Prius has come a long long way. It still has one of the best hybrid drive systems on sale but has added a dose of dynamism and sleekness to this generation. It no doubt helps that much of the market has moved away from making cars like this, to concentrate on higher-riding crossovers and SUVs, but it has left the Toyota as not just a good-looking, but also a smooth-riding and not unenjoyable family hatchback. It’s a car that’s too good to only be a passenger in the back of.”
“The Toyota Prius continues to offer incredible efficiency, now combined with desirable looks. Having lost its taxi-rank crown, the Prius has a new-found position as a retail sales competitor, and in this respect… boot space might become an issue. The interior technology is a huge step on from before, and driving dynamics have significantly improved too.”
“The latest plug-in isn’t as practical as its predecessor, but we’re happy to trade a bit of space for some genuine desirability. More importantly, it offers an interesting choice in a family car market that’s becoming a pit of SUV-shaped homogenisation. It looks great inside and out, is good to drive, devilishly efficient and even reasonably quick. These are qualities not normally associated with the Prius, and mark a welcome change in direction for this popular family car.”
“Working within the overall shape of the previous Prius, Toyota has dramatically realigned its image, updating its appeal for a new generation of drivers. This fifth generation of the car that initiated the mass production of electrified cars over a quarter of a century ago now becomes the best looking and most powerful of all.”
2024 Toyota Prius reviews
“The new Prius has a dual DNA at its heart with its combination of true electric vehicle, performance and the convenience of hybrid technology. With a 13.6kWh battery it enables electric driving for up to 53 miles, [which is] enough to cover most routine daily journeys. For longer trips, or when charging is not practical, the system offers enhanced output and an ultra-low emissions rating – the lowest yet. Of course the distance achieved when using electric power will depend very much on driving style.”
“The latest [Prius] is a super-sleek sedan that looks awesome. I think Toyota’s design team has done an incredible job. In fact, the car’s looks are what I like most about it. Put it into drive [and] the car did most of the thinking for me. You can manually put it into EV mode for short stints, and Toyota suggests this is good for up to 44 miles if fully charged. Normally, though, the hybrid set-up switched dynamically as the conditions and my driving style demanded. It’s a tried and tested format from Toyota and works better than ever in this model.”
“There’s so much to like about the Prius, appealing looks, strong performance, decent EV-only driving range and fuel efficiency that will save you money in the long-term without compromising long-range driving. For eco-conscious buyers not quite ready to take the plunge into all-electric motoring the Prius should be one of the cars at the top of your test drive list. And for the non eco-conscious? Honestly, it’s worth a test drive too.”
“The Toyota Prius is more appealing than ever and this latest version is the best we’ve tested. It’s quieter and rides more comfortably than a [leading competitor], plus it remains fuel-efficient even with a depleted battery. However, rear passenger space is tight. The cheaper entry-level Design trim is likely to be the best choice.”
