Toyota caught everyone out with the all-new fifth-generation 2023 Toyota Prius late last year and transformed the humble, underrated commuter into something that even petrolheads would go, “I’d want one.” That said, pre-orders have gone through the hybrid’s solar roof, causing some Japanese dealers to temporarily suspend order-taking.
It goes without saying this Prius will sell well. So well in fact that certain dealers have had to cease taking pre-orders prior to its launch tomorrow, 10 January 2023. The launch will also see the finalised pricing announced for its home market.
Thus far, the most popular trim appears to be the 2.0-litre PHEV that combines a 2.0-litre inline-four Dynamic Force engine with an electric motor. There’s also a 1.8-litre inline-four naturally aspirated engine with an electric motor but that trim is only sold by corporations and Kinto.
Some dealers claim that the 2023 order frame is already fully spoken for but they’ve negotiated with Toyota sales headquarters to increase the quota by a few units, which the latter did. Even then, the slots were immediately filled by eager customers.
However, not all dealers have suspender order-taking. With some luck, you might find one that’s willing to put your name on the list. Nonetheless, having them take your name still doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your Prius.
A handful of stores have resulted to using the lottery method for pre-orders instead of the traditional first-come-first-serve. This means that even if you were the first to place your order on the first day, you aren’t guaranteed to be the first to take delivery.
In fact, you might not even get it in 2023.
The lottery system determines the delivery timeframe you fall into. For example, if you get the January-February window, that means quick delivery. If however you fall into the April-July window, too bad as that’s a longer wait even if you were the first to place an order.
Toyota implemented the lottery method following resales and exports of the Land Cruiser 300. This is to try and prevent reselling of the popular SUV.
Also Read: 4-year waiting list for 2022 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 in Japan
Fret not though as only some dealers implemented the lottery method. Others will still practice the conventional first-come-first-serve methodology.
At the end of the day, getting your hands on a Prius very much appears to be a game of luck.
