The latest Toyota Prius will soon be available for purchase in the UK, according to Autocar. Previously, the release of the fifth-generation Prius in the UK was postponed due to the high demand for SUV models.

Last year, Toyota explained that the decision not to offer the new Prius in the UK was due to changes in market conditions and their evolving product strategy. The company noticed a shift in UK consumer demand towards SUV-style vehicles.

Toyota also mentioned that Prius sales in the UK were not as strong as their other hybrid models, such as the C-HR crossover and Corolla hatchback.

However, Autocar has learned that the Prius hybrid hatchback will now be introduced in the UK, with an official announcement expected soon. The sales of parallel- and plug-in hybrids have likely contributed to the strengthened business case for this model. In the UK, both types of hybrids saw an increase in market share compared to the previous year, as of September.

The latest Prius is built on the updated version of the TNGA platform, which was used for the previous generation. However, the new model features significant modifications to enhance its stiffness, refinement, and stability.

Globally, the new Prius offers two powertrain options: a front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter parallel hybrid with 191bhp, and a four-wheel-drive 221bhp plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid version can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds, making it the fastest Prius to date.

The plug-in hybrid also comes with a 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of providing an electric driving range of 53 miles, according to official figures.

While the roof of the Prius is equipped with a solar panel that can contribute energy for approximately 777 miles of electric driving per year, it is uncertain whether this feature will be available in the UK.

The interior of the Prius has been redesigned with an emphasis on material quality and driver comfort. It comes with a standard 7.0-inch digital driver display, strategically positioned to minimize distraction while driving. The central infotainment screen is a new-generation version based on the one found in the latest Corolla and Toyota RAV4 models.