The Toyota Prius is back in the UK with an all-new plug-in hybrid model, priced from £37,315.

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Now in its fifth generation, the original hybrid pioneer wasn’t planned for a UK launch after Toyota bosses said the market here favoured SUVs.

However, it’s now reversed that decision and the latest Prius is now coming to these shores in plug-in hybrid guise.

Available in two grades, the third generation of the Prius Plug-in delivers greater fuel economy, emissions efficiency and EV driving capability, along with sharper styling.

It’s built on the latest evolution of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform, delivering lower weight and higher rigidity for a more stable ride. Repositioning the battery has also contributed to enhanced driving dynamics and agility.

Power has been boosted to 220hp – up from the 120hp in the Prius plug-in model and ensuring strong acceleration. Meanwhile, WLTP CO2 emissions are down to 12g/km – the lowest yet for a Prius.

The 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery provides an electric-only range of 53.4 miles – enough to allow fully electric driving on most daily journeys, according to Toyota.

The entry-level Design grade comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, smart entry, rear privacy glass, the Toyota Smart Connect+ multimedia system with both cloud-based and embedded navigation, n and dual-zone air conditioning with nanoe-X air quality system.

It also features latest-generation Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems and parking sensors with obstacle, vehicle and pedestrian detection.

Sitting above this is the Excel (£39,955), which rides on 19-inch wheels and come with eight-way power adjustable front seats with memory setting and integrated heating and ventilation. Extra features also include a digital rear-view mirror and power back door.

Orders open from 4 March and first deliveries start from July.