Toyota Reveals AWD Prius

Toyota Prius AWD-e Revealed at L.A. Auto Show 2018.

2019 will be the first year an all-wheel-drive equipped Prius is available. Toyota quote that their tagline, “Let’s Go Places”, can now be extended to, “Let’s go more places, in more conditions”.

2019 Toyota Prius AWD-e, Photo: Toyota

The ‘e’ in AWD-e stands for electric

All-wheel-drive systems are traditionally made up of highly technical (and often heavy mechanical components), but not the Prius AWD-e. There’s no center differential or extra driveshafts. The on-demand all-wheel-drive only kicks in only when it’s needed. Driven completely by electric motors, the one in the rear is only to provide power to the rear wheels.

Prius AWD-e models will remain on the same platform as other Prii (plural of Prius believe it or not!). Power will come from the 1.8L gasoline engine with CVT auto transmission and Hybrid Synergy Drive.

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Prius AWD-e fuel economy

Although not officially tested by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) yet, Toyota claims great numbers. “one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive-equipped passenger cars available in the U.S.” Toyota estimates are around, 52 mpg in the city, 48 mpg on the highway and 50 mpg combined. Combined numbers show only 2 mpg less than the FWD versions of the Prius. In case you are wondering why the city number is much higher than the highway, here’s why. In the city, the hybrid system takes over for stop/starts and slow speeds, thus using more electric power and less (internal combustion) engine power.

Trim level name changes

The Prius trim levels are currently identified by numbers. For example, the entry-level model starts as a Prius One. Next trim level us is the Prius Two, then Three and Four with some ‘Eco’ and ‘Touring’ models in between. This change is n line with other Toyota vehicles. Trim levels on the 2019 Prius are; L Eco, LE, XLE and Limited.

New colors

Two new colors will accentuate the freshly designed rear and front exterior on the 2019 Prius.

Supersonic Red
Electric Storm Blue

2019 Toyota Prius AWD-e in Electric Storm Blue. Photo: Toyota

Safety

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) is standard on all 2019 Prius models. TSS-P includes features such as;

Pre-Collision system with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Automatic High Beams
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

“Because all Prius models, under certain circumstances, can operate in battery mode alone, during which they make little to no noise, they incorporate a Vehicle Proximity Notification System (VPNS) to help alert pedestrians and cyclists.”

Infotainment

Switches on the steering wheel are integrated for the Entune audio system, driver display, and Bluetooth. 6.1″ touchscreens will display the integrated back up camera, Bluetooth features, Siri Eyes Free, music streaming and phone book. For audio, the Prius will have 6 speakers, an AM/FM radio and a CD player. There is also a USB 2.0 port and aux jack for iPod connectivity. ‘Limited’ trim levels (top trim) will have an 11.6″ HD touchscreen with JBL Audio, App Suite and built-in navigation. No mention of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto yet. Read more about Toyota Service Connect.