Tundra hybrids vs Prius hybrids: How are they different?

When you think of hybrid cars, what comes to mind? For most people, it’s fuel efficiency or eco-friendliness. After all, these cars are renowned on a global basis for their impressive MPGs and their lack of harmful emissions. What you wouldn’t think of (most likely) are performance characteristics like horsepower and torque – characteristics usually reserved for large, powerful gasoline engines (i.e. trucks).

However, with the introduction of the 2022 Toyota Tundra to the market, hybrid cars have been turned on their heads. This incredible Clermont Toyota truck gets great fuel efficiency AND offers impressive performance while still cutting back on emissions. So how is it different from the hybrid system in the OG of hybrid cars, the Clermont Toyota Prius? Obviously, there’s something going on under the hood and we’re breaking it down.

How are these two hybrid systems different?

The Toyota Prius hybrid system is a major player when it comes to fuel efficiency (but not so much horsepower). It gets 58/53 mpg and 121 horsepower. The 2022 Toyota Tundra hybrid system, on the other hand, gets improved fuel efficiency over the prior V8 model (although we don’t have exact numbers yet for it) and 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft torque. Here’s how they do it:

• The Toyota Prius – and other cars like it – have a dual-motor system. Basically, the first motor takes power from the engine and converts it over to the battery so you have electrical power (and can run without the engine). The second motor connects directly to the wheels of the car and powers them. So the engine doesn’t send torque to the wheels all the time in a mechanical fashion; the path can also be electrical. While it’s fuel-efficient, it’s not known for performance aspects like horsepower or torque.
• On the other hand, the Clermont Toyota Tundra is a single motor hybrid system with a mechanical path for sending power. There’s a clutch in between the motor 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, however, that signals to the engine that internal combustion power is needed and the twin-turbo V6 needs to get to work to send power to the wheels. This means that you get incredible horsepower and torque (you saw the numbers and they speak for themselves) at your fingertips.

Which of these Clermont Toyota hybrid systems is right for you?

So which one is right for you? Do you want major fuel efficiency or major performance? The best way to decide is to come down and take a test drive for yourself. Explore all of the hybrid options at Toyota of Clermont to see which one best suits your drivetime needs.

Have questions about how hybrid cars work, the costs of owning one, or anything else about these green vehicles? Call Toyota of Clermont today at (352) 404-7000 or stop by and see them in person! We’re conveniently located just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50.

 

 

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