Toyota unveiled the all-new second-generation Aqua, aka the Prius C, for the Japanese market. Compared to its predecessor, which debuted in 2012 and has sold more than 1.87 million units, the new Aqua is fitted with an improved hybrid system that is 20 percent more efficient and comes with a new platform and modernized design.

The Aqua is based on the TNGA GA-B platform that debuted last year in the Euro-spec Toyota Yaris. Under the bonnet, there is a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gasoline engine that works together with an electric motor. The big news here is the brand-new high-output bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery, replacing the nickel-hydrogen battery of its predecessor with approximately twice the output. Thus, the hybrid can operate in EV Mode for longer periods of time in a wider spectrum of scenarios before the ICE engine kicks in.

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While being an hybrid, the hybrid Aqua can be driven with one pedal – similarly to BEVs and PHEVs – thanks to the Power+ Mode which utilizes regenerative braking for deceleration. It is also the first Aqua to feature optional E-Four all-wheel-drive for more traction in slippery conditions. According to Toyota, its fuel consumption is an impressive 84.2 mpg (2.79 lt/100 km).

Japan has suffered from many natural disasters (earthquakes, tsunamis, etc.) so Toyota equipped the Aqua with a standard emergency power supply mode allowing electricity to be drawn from the vehicle for external use during blackouts through an AC 100-volt / 1,500-watt power outlet.

Design-wise, the new Aqua is recognizable as an evolution of its predecessor with more muscular and better-integrated rear fenders, a sportier windowline, and smarter LED lights. There are elements from the Euro-spec Yaris, however the Aqua looks more like a compact hatchback and less of a supermini.

Despite the new platform, the redesigned body, and the slightly extended wheelbase (+50 mm), exterior dimensions are unchanged over its predecessor. Toyota claims the new generation has greater interior space, especially for rear passengers, and a larger boot.

Inside, the Aqua is more stylish and incorporates a digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen for the infotainment. Standard equipment in all grades includes the latest edition of Toyota Safety Sense, featuring a range of ADAS including the Full-speed Range Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Teammate Advance Park systems.

The new Aqua is already available in Japan with prices starting from 1,980,000 million yen ($17,996) for the base FWD version, all the way up to 2,598,000 yen ($23,657) for the range-topping E-Four.