Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid revealed at New York motor show

A new version of the Toyota Prius has been revealed at the New York motor show, and will reach UK showrooms at the end of this year.

What is it?

This is a new plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota Prius. It gets different styling to the regular hybrid model, and is also longer, lower and wider than the plug-in hybrid Prius it replaces. Whereas the regular Prius hybrid charges its battery via energy recuperated from the brakes, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a larger battery which can be recharged via a cable in just over two hours.

This Prius also features solar panels on the roof which can help recharge the battery.

What engines can I choose from?

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a 1.8-litre petrol engine working in conjunction with an electric motor. Both the petrol engine and the electric motor can be used to provide power.

What equipment does it come with?

Toyota says it wanted to make the plug-in Prius more of a driver's car than the regular model. To that end, the plug-in gets a 'more engaging' driving position, a higher center console and a 4.2in infotainment system.

How much does it cost?

Toyota has yet to reveal official pricing for this plug-in hybrid version of the Prius, but it's likely to cost more than the standard car, which is priced from £23,295 in this country. The plug-in hybrid Prius has never sold well next to the regular hybrid in this country, but Toyota bosses say demand could change very quickly, considering how much CO2 limits are being cut by in major cities.

How good are its rivals?

Toyota's main rival will be the Hyundai Ioniq, which is being launched as a regular hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and an electric car, as well as more established hybrid models such as the Volkswagen Passat GTE.