2025 Toyota Prius debuts geo-fencing tech and enhanced PHEV range

Jet Sanchez
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Geo-fencing helps the Prius make the most of its battery.

Geo-fencing helps the Prius make the most of its battery.

Toyota has added new features to the 2025 Toyota Prius, including an advanced geo-fencing system designed to optimise the balance between electric and hybrid driving. 

This latest feature makes the Prius more intelligent, learning from the driver’s habits and road conditions to ensure maximum battery efficiency in low-emission zones.

The cloud-based geo-fencing technology analyses real-time traffic data and memorises frequent routes. 

If an upcoming low-emission zone (LEZ) or BEV-mandatory area is detected, the Prius will automatically switch to electric-only mode, provided there is sufficient charge. 

If a driver’s destination lies within an LEZ, the system ensures enough battery power is retained to complete the journey emission-free.

Improved plug-in hybrid range

2025 Toyota Prius
Inside the new Prius (European left-hand-drive model shown).

The fifth-generation Prius continues to offer Toyota’s most efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain yet, combining an electric-only range with hybrid efficiency. 

The 2025 model delivers up to 86km of pure electric driving (WLTP combined), extending to 110km in urban settings. 

For longer trips, the hybrid system takes over, achieving an ultra-efficient 0.5L/100km fuel consumption rate and 11g/km CO2 emissions - the lowest ever for a Prius.

Toyota’s solar charging technology remains a key highlight, providing an estimated 8.7km of additional EV range per day when exposed to sunlight.

Enhanced standard equipment

2025 Toyota Prius

The 2025 Prius now comes with additional standard features aimed at improving convenience and safety, reinforcing its premium positioning. 

An app-based digital key now allows up to five users to access and start the vehicle using their smartphone. 

Wireless smartphone charging is included across all trim levels, offering added convenience. 

Toyota has also integrated its latest Safety Sense and T-Mate systems, providing advanced driver-assist and accident-prevention technologies to enhance safety and usability.

Leading the charge 

2025 Toyota Prius Nightshade

Since its launch in 1997, the Prius has been a key player in Toyota’s hybrid strategy, with over 5.3 million units sold globally, including 350,000 plug-in hybrid models. Now sold exclusively as a plug-in hybrid in Europe, the 2025 model introduces new features aimed at improving efficiency and usability.

The 2025 Toyota Prius is now available for purchase across Europe, though it remains to be seen whether its latest features will resonate with hybrid buyers. 

In New Zealand, the Prius remains available through Toyota’s Signature Class programme as a near-new, low-mileage used import, after being phased out from the new vehicle lineup in 2021. 

Given Toyota’s continued commitment to hybrid technology, it’s possible that this latest version (or something like it) could eventually make its way to Kiwi roads.