Toyota added the fourth pillar to the Prius model, the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime. This is their most fuel-efficient plug-in electric hybrid gasoline to date. It can travel up to 640 miles on full electric charge with a single tank of fuel.
Engine. Generating 121 horses at 5,200 rpm to the front wheels and 105 lb-ft of torque is a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with a gasoline-electric plug-in hybrid drivetrain built around it. Power is sent to the ground via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Also, drivers have the option to use the all-electric lithium-ion battery pack alone or allow the car to manage the power modes for maximum efficiency. When using the all-electric powertrain, the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime can travel up to 25 miles with an 84 mph speed and an impressive 133 MPGe.
The hybrid's fuel mileage according to the EPA is at 55 for a city, 53 for highway, and 54 combined cycle. This puts Toyota's hybrid model as the most fuel-efficient plug-in gasoline-electric hybrid sold in the US.
Charging. With the help of a quick charger, it takes a little more than 2 hours for the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime to fully juice up its 8.8kWh battery pack. But using the regular 120-volt household outlet, it takes up to 5.5 hours for a full charge.
There are three driving basic modes: HV, EV, and EV Auto. In HV, the Prime operates like a regular hybrid by relying on both the four-cylinder and the electric motor. EV shuts off the gas engine, while EV Auto lets the car decide how to best manage power delivery.
Pricing and trim levels. Toyota doesn't offer any factory options for its buyers, which are offered with only 3 trim levels, Plus, Premium, and Advanced. Clearly, the Advanced trim level is the most expensive of the three running at a price of $33,100, reports Digital Trends.
This trim level of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime includes blind spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, LED fog lights, and Toyota's Intelligent Park Assist (IPA) tech. A premium JBL sound system, a 7-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound system, and a rear-view camera are also included.
The Premium model boasts $28,800 and comes with SofTex upholstery, an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, and a wireless phone charger, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen. And then the entry-level Plus model is priced at $27,100. It packs standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a 7-inch touch screen.
A separate article is dedicated for the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime interior, exterior, and driving experience. Meanwhile, what do you think of the most efficient hybrid in the segment?
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