Sleek look boosts appeal of new Prius

Toyota's game changer improves its eco credentials, writes Rob Auchterlonie

- Rob Auchterlonie

The past week has been spent in near silent driving mode, in the latest incarnation of a vehicle that has been the transport of choice for a multitude of mini cab drivers here in Milton Keynes. And probably elsewhere.

Yes, the Toyota Prius is back on sale in the UK, only this time the third generation of the car that was an early forerunner of electrified performance is an altogether sleeker proposition aimed at a different buyer.

The all new plug-in hybrid Prius arrives with even greater fuel economy, emissions efficiency and EV driving capability, matched to its new sharp, coupe-like styling.

Starting one up is a bit like coming across some motorway roadworks-you begin to wonder if anything is actually going on.

You press the power button and the digital display tells you the car is ready for action. But it's so quiet you could hear that proverbial penny drop.