This is how the 2023 Toyota Prius will look like (almost) - launching on 16-Nov

The Toyota Prius had a rather short, fleeting stay here in Malaysia. It was on sale for only one generation, for about 5 years, between 2009 to 2014. As an imported model, coupled with higher cost of Toyota’s full-hybrid drivetrain, it would’ve been price at the level of a BMW 3 Series if not import and excise duty exemptions for hybrid vehicles then.

So when that tax exemption expired, the Prius was pulled out of Malaysia. Unlike the Corolla Cross Hybrid (or even the Camry Hybrid before it), local assembly is out of the question because the Prius is only made in Japan.

Elsewhere, the Prius will be entering its fifth-generation model, debuting in Japan on 16-November.

Toyota has released two teaser images, one showing the 5th generation Prius’ silhouette and the other showing its headlamps light signature.

Both images are quite close the earlier renderings done by Japanese publication Best Car Web.

The fifth-generation model appears to be an evolution of the 3rd generation model’s (the one that was last sold in Malaysia) Kammback / fastback styling, rather than the newer 4th generation model’s more traditional 3-box sedan-like styling.

This template was first laid by the 2nd generation Prius, the model that established the iconic ‘Prius’ look.

Market trends are also moving away from traditional 3-box style sedans, and if you look at how Toyota had reinterpreted the Crown, one of Japan’s most respected and recognized sedans, the company’s decision to return to the 3rd generation model as its starting point is understandable.

More will be revealed come 16-November.

Don't expect the 5th generation 2023 Toyota Prius to return to Malaysia though. As mentioned earlier, the Prius is only made in Japan and taxes would've killed it before it even turns its wheels on local roads. It will however, be introduced in Singapore, where the reliable and fuel sipping hybrid is a popular choice for taxi operators and Grab drivers there.

Also read: Used hybrids are really cheap, so should you buy a used Toyota Prius, Camry Hybrid or Honda Insight?