The unique driving experience of the hybrid has a sporty feel

When I actually drove the car, the specialty car felt increased. Compared to previous Prius models, it has a sporty ride, and if you consider it as a basic sedan, you may feel that the ride is a little hard. Instead, the sharp response to steering inputs turns even intersections into fun corners.

This impression is reinforced when you enter the winding roads. As well as the sharp steering feel, selecting Sport mode makes the most of the motor’s characteristics and the throttle response is agile. Once the throttle is opened wide open, the acceleration is heart-pounding.

Also, the relatively natural touch of the brakes, despite being a hybrid, is a good impression. We felt that the Prius has undergone a major character change to a model that is pleasant to drive with this full model change.

This is the specialty car of the new era

In the past, stylish coupes were in vogue when it came to specialty cars. However, times have changed and the specialty car genre has almost been destroyed. …… I felt that the Prius, which appeared in such a modern age, should be called the ‘Speciality Car of the new era’.

The previous generation may have been superior in terms of performance for everyone, such as convenience, everyday use, and practicality. But we wanted more than that wanted styling and a ride that made the driver smile. The hybrid powertrain also plays a role in this driving pleasure. A stylish hybrid car that is fun to drive. It is truly a specialty car from 2021.

This test-drive experience showed that the creation of a new sense of value, from ‘I buy it because it’s a hybrid’ to ‘I buy it because it’s a Prius’, has been established.

translated by DeepL