How is the Tundra hybrid system different from the Prius hybrid system?

When you think of a hybrid vehicle, chances are that the first quality that comes to mind is either fuel efficiency or eco-friendliness. Since the inception of the Orlando Toyota Prius waaaay back in the early 2000’s, hybrids have been synonymous with those two ideas. However, new innovations and new vehicles – like the 2022 Toyota Tundra – are evolving the hybrid system to better suit a wide range of drivers, not just those who want to save on gas or cut down on emissions.

Which should you consider: The Toyota Tundra Hybrid or Toyota Prius?

So how is the hybrid system in a new Toyota Tundra different from that in a Toyota Prius? Toyota of Orlando is here to break down the basics and explain.

Let’s compare the two cars in terms of performance first. The Orlando Toyota Prius, renowned for its fuel efficiency, gets an incredible 58/53 mpg and offers 121 horsepower. On the other hand, the new Toyota Tundra Hybrid will offer slightly less fuel efficiency (exact numbers have yet to be released) but offers an unbelievable 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft torque. But how? Fuel efficiency and performance abilities seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum… so how is it possible to get both?

Basically, it boils down to the way the hybrid systems are set up. We’re going to keep things basic here (if you want to get super granular, come talk to our Orlando Toyota sales specialists). Here’s the breakdown.

• Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, etc. have a dual-motor setup. The first motor takes power from the engine and converts it over to the battery to give you that coveted electrical power. The second motor is connected directly to the wheels to power them. Instead of the engine solely sending torque to the wheels, the path is – for the most part – electrical. That’s why while you’ll get great fuel efficiency in this type of setup, it’s not renowned for horsepower or torque.

 

• So how does the Orlando Toyota Tundra Hybrid offer such exceptional performance? The main difference is that the path that sends power (you know, the one that’s mostly electric in the Prius) is mechanical. There’s a single motor in this performance-driven truck, and there’s a clutch in between it and the engine. If the clutch is open, the engine can turn off and the electric motor takes over to send power to the wheels. If the clutch is closed because the truck needs that internal combustion power, the twin-turbo V6 engine kicks into life to mechanically send power to the wheels.

While one of these hybrid systems offers exceptional fuel efficiency and normal performance, the other offers exceptional performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. So which is better for you? The best way to decide is to take a test drive at our Orlando Toyota dealership or chat with one of our sales specialists.

Test drive the hybrid of your dreams at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to make it happen? Call Toyota of Orlando to explore our hybrid vehicles today. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

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