2016 Toyota Prius Hybrid i-Tech

What's it like to drive?

So much better! The improved dynamics of the new model are evident even just around town, but head onto a twisty road and it's like chalk and cheese from old to new. This is mostly due to the lighter structure, repositioned battery, wider and lower chassis, and the lower position of the drivetrain.

The new electric-assisted power steering is more direct, is more communicative and has a better feel. The ride is comfortable and not as floaty as the previous generation.

Tyre noise is still evident (especially compared with a Corolla hybrid) but seems to be better than the previous model. You do get a bit of protesting when you push it hard into corners, though that's not surprising given the more eco-friendly compound used in the tyres.

The brake pedal still feels wooden and the initial 'grab', caused by the regenerative braking, takes a bit of getting used too.

What is disappointing, given the car's newfound handling prowess, is that the 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine has less power (73kW versus 100kW previously). The electric motor also drops in performance (53kW versus 73kW). You feel like you have to push the car harder in normal driving situations, which slightly negates the improved fuel economy.

What is interesting is that, despite being detuned for better fuel economy, the engine is still only Euro 5 compliant. Gear changes are smooth, though, and the transition from electric power to engine power is as seamless as before.

The car beeps continuously when reversing, which quickly becomes tiresome. The beeping is not from parking sensors; the car is simply telling you that you are in reverse!

It looks interesting...

'Polarising' is probably an apt word for the reworked exterior styling. While not to my taste, Toyota says the new styling was developed under the theme of 'Iconic Human-tech', a fusion of function, playfulness and emotion.

The front face is certainly different, with curves intersecting hard surfaces, and what Toyota says is "the subtle inclusion of smooth yet sharp character lines".
To point to its improved dynamics, Toyota has placed the emblem at exactly the same height from the road as the Toyota 86 sports car. The emblem is emphasised by a thin upper grille and sleek, sculpted headlamps. The larger, trapezoidal air intakes are now very prominent and the lower parts of the front bumper, as well as the shape of the lower grille and wheel arch, have been designed to direct airflow around and under the body.

What's it like inside?

The interior is a step up in quality and design compared with the previous model. It retains the same uncluttered layout. Despite being an all-new model, it does still look like the previous model. Toyota is certainly not pushing any design boundaries here.

There are new twin 4.2-inch colour TFT displays and padded touch points on the instrument panel, a new three-spoke leather-accented steering wheel with an improved tilt range, seven-inch display audio with two additional speakers (10 in total), newly designed seats (structure and covering) and upgraded door trim.

The i-tech also has different seats with leather-accented coverings and a bigger boot (502 litres).

Our test car came with a white plastic centre console area (see above picture) which we feel lowers the overall tone of the interior.

Should I consider one?

Personally, we'd opt for the Corolla hybrid as a green motoring alternative. It's not as 'look as me' as the Prius, but offers good fuel consumption in a more attractive body. It's more than $16,000 cheaper, too, and while it doesn't get the same level of equipment and is smaller overall, it is much quieter on the road and feels sprightlier.

If you are looking for hybrid that people 'know' is a hybrid, then we'd also suggest looking at a Lexus. The base model CT 200h Luxury is priced from just $38,750 and is a sleeker, more attractive proposition.