Toyota Prius carplay support is finally here making the 2020 model the first-ever Prius to sport the feature. That means buyers won't have to pay extra for plug-ins.
Toyota seems reluctant to add Apple's in-car infotainment attribute to its vehicles, so this is a welcome development. Like all other Toyota models, 2020 Toyota Prius Prime will sport a wired integration. Amazon Alexa support and a SiriusXM satellite radio is also offered as standard, reports Carbuzz.
Adding to the premium effect, black interior accents will replace previous white ones. The upgraded cabin will also feature a new sun visor extender and relocated seat heater buttons for front seat passengers's convenience, reports 9to5mac.
But the biggest upgrade this year is the addition of a rear bench that can sit five people. This is a shift from last year's two captain chairs that were separated by cupholders and an armrest. Just like what it did in its othr series, Toyota has also relabeled the Plus, Premium and Advanced trims levels to the LE, XLE and Limited.
The summer release features a similar plug-in hybrid powertrain to its predecessor, consisting of an electric motor, an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The 2020 Prius Prime will produce a combined output of 121 hp--moderately power but extremely efficient with a fuel economy rating of 55 mpg city / 53 mpg highway / 54 mpg combined. It sports a maximum electric range of 25 miles.
Toyota been extending its roster of CarPlay-enabled vehicles. Recently, the leading car manufacturer announced that it will roll out CarPlay retrofits for select 2018 Sienna and Camry models.
The 2020 Toyota Prius Prime can be yours for $27,600. It remains one of the most popular hybrids on the road although it recently suffered a dip in sales. In April, Toyota sold 16,857 Prius units, a 43.2 percent dip from April 2018's 29,655.
Hopefully, its new release will be its saving grace. Meanwhile, for those who are still loving their good old Toyota, a handful of aftermarket solutions are available.
