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this is not really a fifth generation hybrid system everything else is exactly the same service is exactly the same

💨 tl;dr

The 2023 Toyota Prius is a solid upgrade with a new hybrid system, improved EV range, and a more appealing design. It offers a regular hybrid and a plug-in Prime model, both with enhanced performance and practicality.

💡 Key Ideas

• The 2023 Toyota Prius is the fifth generation, featuring an updated hybrid system with small but important improvements.
• It offers two models: a regular hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (Prime), with the Prime having a better EV range.
• The new engine is a 2L 4-cylinder with advanced features like variable valve timing, improving performance and reliability.
• The updated transmission and engine design aim for better driving experience and reduced leaks.
• The battery system has transitioned to a larger lithium-ion battery, now located underneath the car, enhancing storage space.
• The cooling system for the battery has changed from air to refrigerant, improving efficiency.
• Both models share similar exterior designs, but the Prime has additional charging features and a different battery structure.
• The interior has been redesigned for better comfort and usability, though some features, like the shifter, feel flimsy.
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is included, offering advanced safety features, but some tech can be excessive or glitchy.
• The Prius has a more appealing look compared to earlier generations, addressing past aesthetic criticisms.

🎓 Lessons Learnt

• Update Existing Systems for Reliability: Instead of reinventing the wheel, improving current engine systems can lead to more reliable performance.

• Hybrid Battery Maintenance is Key: Keeping the hybrid battery's air filter clean and using the right oil are essential for long-term efficiency.

• Battery Placement Enhances Practicality: Relocating the battery under the car frees up interior space, making the Prius more user-friendly.

• Increased EV Range Matters: The new system boosts EV range from 25 to 40 miles, enhancing competitiveness in the hybrid market.

• Simplified Power-Up Process Reduces Risks: A new sequence for powering components minimizes the chance of power surges, leading to better reliability.

• Thinner Oil Reduces Friction: Using thinner oil for the transmission fluid is beneficial, reducing friction without the need for hydraulics.

• Design Integration Enhances Aesthetics: Combining various design elements from other models results in a more appealing look for the 2023 Prius.

• User-Friendly Features Improve Experience: Intuitive controls and better gauge visibility enhance usability and driving experience.

• Consider the Prime Model for Better Performance: The plug-in hybrid Prime model offers significant improvements in EV range and overall efficiency.

• Evaluate Features vs. Cost: Not all options justify their price increase, so it’s wise to assess what’s truly beneficial before purchasing.

🌚 Conclusion

Overall, the 2023 Prius is a great choice if you're looking for reliability and efficiency. Consider the Prime for better EV performance, but weigh features against cost before buying.

In-Depth

All Key Ideas

2023 Toyota Prius Overview

• The 2023 Toyota Prius is the fifth generation of a car that started Toyota hybrids and has taken a different design direction.
• The new hybrid system is not entirely new but is an updated version of the previous generation, with small but significant improvements.
• The Prius offers two models: a regular hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (the Prime).
• The new engine is a 2 L 4-cylinder direct and port injected non-turbo EGR engine, which is considered more modern and potentially more reliable than the previous engine.
• The Atkinson cycle engine features a variable valve timing (vvti) system that improves performance and reduces issues related to oil contamination.
• The engine construction includes high-quality plastic components and aluminum, similar to other Toyota engines, but with some unique design features.

Engine and Transmission Features

• The front timing cover is a two-piece design to eliminate front timing cover leaks seen in many Toyota models.
• The engine uses two timing chains: one for the cams and one for the oil pump.
• It features an electronically controlled variable oil pump and emphasizes the importance of proper oil change intervals and using the right oil.
• This engine offers more power and refinement compared to previous generations, delivering a better driving experience.
• The transmission has been updated to a dry sump system, reducing drag compared to the previous slush system.
• The Prime model has larger motors for improved EV driving experience, although the operating principles remain similar.
• The 12V battery has been moved back to the trunk, which may complicate battery replacement.
• The Prius now uses a higher capacity lithium-ion battery instead of nickel metal hydride, maintaining a similar construction and location.

2023 Toyota Prius Features

• The 2023 Toyota Prius features a completely redone battery system, with a larger lithium-ion battery now located underneath the car instead of inside, freeing up storage space.
• The battery cooling system has shifted from air cooling to refrigerant cooling, using electric heaters for heating.
• The new Prius Prime offers 40 miles of EV range, an improvement from the previous 25 miles, positioning it alongside the RAV4 Prime.
• The inverter has not decreased in size as expected; it is slightly larger than in previous models, which is a surprising change.
• A small tweak in the DC to DC converter operation improves efficiency by changing the power-up sequence to eliminate a sudden rush of power.
• The all-wheel drive non-Prime model features a bigger, more powerful hybrid transaxle for better regeneration and driving power.
• The Prime model includes a charging port and a 3.3 kW onboard charger, which was relocated to accommodate the new battery position, but it occupies cargo space.

2023 Prius Features and Updates

• The difference between the Prius Prime and non-prime models includes a complex heating system that aims to minimize engine use in EV mode.
• The new Prius Prime features additional refrigerant lines for battery cooling, similar to the F4 Prime's system.
• Toyota switched from regular transmission fluid to a thinner oil called Toyota te transaxle fluid in the new hybrids to reduce friction.
• The updates in the 2023 Prius are not groundbreaking, as the core hybrid system remains similar to previous generations.
• The marketing emphasizes a 'fifth generation' hybrid system, despite it being a third or fourth generation in practical terms.
• The 2023 Prius has familiar features like grill shutters for temperature control and covered components underneath.
• The suspension includes steel lower control arms and a beefy axle for enhanced performance in EV mode.

Features of the Toyota Prius

• The Prius has a very small fender liner and exposed areas, reflecting a trend in car design.
• Toyota exhaust systems are high quality with good insulation, but not the best available.
• The battery is protected by a strong steel covering, and the fuel tank wraps over the exhaust.
• The rear suspension features typical TMGA design with a separate coil spring and shock.
• The Prius has transitioned to using lug bolts instead of lug nuts, complicating wheel service.
• The 19-inch wheels come with very thin tires, affecting gas mileage.
• The new Prius is described as a good-looking car, which is a departure from its traditional image.

Design Features of the Toyota Prius

• Integrated design languages from other Toyota cars create a visually appealing Prius.
• The new generation Prius features a notably low roofline and smaller quarter glass.
• The design includes a black flare arch that some may prefer to be body color.
• The dramatic look is enhanced by a small indentation at the bottom of the car's body.
• The front doors have a unique guide to assist with closing, showcasing an interesting design choice.
• The door handle is a button, complicating the design unnecessarily, with a backup manual release that's difficult to use.
• The Prius has a vapor recovery valve that requires attention during refueling.
• The rear design flows well, featuring the word 'Prius' integrated with the defroster grid.
• The back hatch has an option for a power lift, but the manual version feels flimsy.
• The Prime model has a higher floor due to battery placement, providing decent space while still being a hatchback.

2023 Toyota Prius Features

• The 2023 Toyota Prius features an electronic button for the back hatch, with a manual access door for emergencies.
• The design includes an optional integrated glass roof and a charge door that's considered nicer than the RAV4 Prime.
• The Prius Prime and non-Prime models have identical exterior looks, differing mainly in battery structure.
• The interior of the 2023 Prius feels more like a normal car, with an improved design and comfortable seats.
• The gauge is an all-screen version, now positioned more in front of the driver.
• The updated infotainment system has a large screen but can be glitchy; it includes a volume button accessible for the passenger.
• The shifter feels flimsy in the prototype, and there's a compact area with a wireless charger that hides the phone.

2023 Prius Features

• The climate controls in the 2023 Prius feature a simple small screen for temperature and physical buttons for heated seats, though this model lacks cooled seats.
• The 2023 Prius offers multi-orientation roofs, including solar panels, which are more beneficial in hot sunny areas.
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes advanced features like accident avoidance and steering maneuvering to prevent collisions, which is a significant improvement over previous systems.
• The driver monitor system uses an infrared camera to ensure driver attention, but can be overly sensitive and annoying.
• The rear seat of the 2023 Prius offers good knee room and amenities like USB ports and a household-style power outlet, making it a comfortable space for passengers.
• The gauge situation has been modified from the traditional center display to in front of the steering wheel, but it still has visibility issues due to being partially covered.

2023 Toyota Prius Review

• The screen in the 2023 Toyota Prius is too small and positioned low, making it difficult to see.
• Toyota did not create a whole new hybrid system for the Prius, which feels more like a marketing strategy.
• The gas mileage of the new model remains mostly the same and may have even dropped slightly.
• The Prime model received significant updates, including improved EV range.
• The 2023 Prius has a more appealing design compared to previous generations, addressing past complaints about aesthetics.
• The car features a lot of tech and safety features, though some can be excessive.
• Options available for the car may increase the price unnecessarily.

All Lessons Learnt

Key Insights on Engine Improvements

• Update existing systems rather than starting from scratch.
• Modern engines can enhance reliability.
• EGR systems can lead to issues, but improvements are possible.
• Dual injection systems can prevent carbon buildup.
• Variable valve timing can be simplified for better performance.

Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance Tips

• Always use the right oil and follow oil change intervals.
• Keep the hybrid battery's air filter clean and unobstructed.
• Be aware of battery location changes.
• Understand the benefits of lithium-ion batteries.

Key Improvements in Hybrid Vehicle Design

• Battery Placement Matters: Moving the battery from inside the car to underneath frees up storage space, which is a significant improvement for practicality in the Prius.
• Cooling Efficiency: Switching from air cooling to refrigerant cooling for the battery may not be the most efficient, but it helps manage heat without the complications of an electric-only vehicle.
• Improved EV Range: The new system provides a notable increase in EV range from 25 miles to 40 miles, making it more competitive with similar hybrid models.
• Inverter Size Changes: The inverter assembly remained larger than expected, indicating a shift in design priorities, which may affect space and layout in the vehicle.
• Simplified Power-Up Process: The change in the order of powering up components reduces the risk of sudden power surges, leading to more reliable operation.
• All-Wheel Drive Enhancements: The upgraded hybrid transaxle in the all-wheel-drive models enhances regeneration and driving power, improving overall performance.
• Charger Location Issues: The charger’s relocation to the storage area compromises cargo space, highlighting the need for better design integration in future models.

Toyota Prius Hybrid Features

• Toyota plug-in hybrids try not to use the engine in EV mode. This approach enhances electric efficiency, making them top performers in their category.
• The new Prius uses thinner oil for the transmission fluid. Thinner oil reduces friction, which is beneficial since it’s not required for hydraulics in this hybrid system.
• Service expectations remain the same as previous generations. If you’ve owned a previous Prius or hybrid, reliability and maintenance should feel familiar, despite marketing claims of a 'fifth generation.'
• The Prius has improved components like a beefier axle. This upgrade supports the demands of semi-electric operation in EV mode, enhancing durability.
• The cooling system includes new refrigerant lines for battery cooling. This improvement aligns it closer to systems used in all-electric models, optimizing performance.

Key Features of the 2023 Prius

• Look out for small fender liners.
• Toyota exhaust quality is notable.
• Battery protection design is essential.
• Electronic parking brakes are an improvement.
• Lug bolts can complicate service.
• Tire size affects fuel efficiency.
• The new Prius has improved aesthetics.

Car Design Features

• Design Integration: It's interesting how they integrated all their design languages from other cars into one, which results in a very good-looking car.
• Low Roof Line Impact: The very low roof line affects the overall design and functionality, making the quarter glass smaller and altering the door design.
• Regulatory Adjustments: The addition of certain design features, like reflectors, indicates that some elements are included to meet US regulations, not necessary for international models.
• Less is More: The flat door design shows that sometimes less is more, as small details like body indentations can create a more dramatic look.
• Complicated Door Mechanism: The complex door handle design illustrates that sometimes design can overcomplicate functionality, as a manual handle might have sufficed.
• Fuel Door Functionality: The fuel door operates with a vapor recovery valve, emphasizing the importance of understanding car features to avoid issues during refueling.
• Manual vs. Power Liftgate: The option for a manual or power back door highlights the need to consider convenience features when choosing a vehicle.

2023 Prius Features

• Battery Access: If the Prius battery is dead, you can manually open the back hatch through a small access door. This is helpful for emergencies.
• Design Consistency: The Prius Prime and non-Prime look identical in this generation, which means you don’t have to choose a different style for the plug-in hybrid version.
• Interior Quality: The 2023 Prius offers a more upscale interior compared to previous models, making it feel more like a normal car, which enhances user comfort.
• User-Friendly Features: Toyota focuses on easy operation, with features like a power driver’s seat and a simple infotainment system, making it accessible for all drivers.
• Innovative Charging: The wireless phone charger hides your phone away while charging, keeping the interior neat and preventing distractions.
• Gauge Display: The all-screen gauge is positioned better for driver visibility, improving the overall driving experience.
• Infotainment System: While generally good, the updated infotainment system can be glitchy, so it's wise to be prepared for occasional issues.

Design Insights for Vehicle Features

• Design Choices Matter: The placement of wireless charging and features like hidden compartments may seem trivial but can impact user experience. Designers' decisions can significantly affect functionality and user satisfaction.
• Climate Controls Should Be User-Friendly: Simple and intuitive climate controls with physical buttons enhance usability. Users prefer tangible controls for heated and cooled seats, rather than relying solely on screens.
• Consider Solar Panel Utility: Solar panels on the roof can be beneficial in sunny areas, but their value diminishes in less sunny climates. Assess your local climate before opting for this feature.
• Safety Features Have Trade-Offs: Advanced safety features like accident avoidance and steering maneuvers are impressive but can be overly sensitive, leading to annoying alerts during normal driving.
• Driver Monitoring Can Be Distracting: The infrared driver monitor system is a nice feature but may become bothersome if it frequently misidentifies your attention level based on hand placement.
• Rear Seat Comfort is Subjective: While the rear seat in the Prius offers good knee room, the design may not be ideal for long trips. Comfort can vary based on personal preferences and body types.
• Gauge Placement Matters for Visibility: The gauge design in the Prius can obstruct visibility due to steering wheel coverage. A more traditional layout could enhance driver experience.

2023 Prius Considerations

• Be cautious about the screen placement in the Prius. The small screen is too low and often blocked by the driver, which can be inconvenient while driving.
• Don't expect a complete overhaul with the 2023 Prius. The hybrid system isn’t entirely new; it’s an evolution of existing technology, which might not meet expectations for those looking for groundbreaking updates.
• Check the gas mileage carefully. The fuel efficiency has remained the same or even dropped slightly, so it’s important to consider this before purchasing.
• The Prime model offers significant improvements. If you're looking for better EV range, the plug-in hybrid Prime model has substantial updates that make it a better option.
• Consider the aesthetics of the car. The 2023 Prius has a more appealing design compared to previous generations, which may attract more buyers.
• Be wary of unnecessary options that increase the price. Some features may not be worth the extra cost, so it’s wise to evaluate which options are truly beneficial.