New Toyota Prius Finally Offers Apple CarPlay
It’s taken a while for Toyota to finally come around to adding Apple CarPlay smartphone integration to its cars, but now it’s finally here. In its announcement of the new, 2020 Prius hybrid, Toyota says the model will be offered with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility on every trim level — though Android users may be disappointed to learn that Android Auto is still not offered, even though it’s available on other Toyota models.
Nonetheless, with up a 56 combined mpg rating, a segment-exclusive AWD model and standard Toyota Safety Sense P technology across every trim level, the new 2020 Toyota Prius should prove an enticing option for any shopper seeking a modern hybrid car, smartphone integration notwithstanding.
Every Prius model is now also equipped with standard Toyota Safety Connect, previously exclusive to the top-of-the-line Limited trim, which includes roadside assistance, automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle location, and emergency assistance services for three years.
Related: New features coming
The new Prius is also the most off-road capable Prius ever thanks to its electronic AWD system that can deliver power to all four wheels at speeds of up to 43 mph to help provide more control in poor weather and road conditions.
Because the addition of AWD might tempt buyers who would have previously never considered a Prius, such as people living in Canada or other areas that get a lot of snow in the winter, the Prius AWD-e also uses a nickel-metal hydride battery (as opposed to the usual lithium ion battery), which Toyota says is more resilient to temperature changes and should provide better performance in cold-weather conditions.
In a press release, the automaker was also happy to boast (quite rightly) about the engine’s 40 percent thermal efficiency — among the highest in the world for a gasoline engine — and the car’s 0.24 drag coefficient — among the lowest among production passenger cars.
Related: Learn more about Toyota Safety Sense
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