This is the new Toyota Prius [Gallery]

Toyota has lifted the lid on the new Prius, and while it’s still very recognisably the world’s most popular hybrid, it’s clear that the Japanese auto giant gave its designers some serious free reign.

The most visible changes to the Prius’ design are the front and rear lights, which feature sharp angles. According to Toyota, the new headlamps minimise the Prius’ frontal area and, “at the same time, provides a striking lighting display which helps define the vehicle’s distinctive character”.

Toyota’s also lowered the top of the roof by 20 mm and moved it forwards, while the engine hood has also been lowered, something that Toyota says is designed to “create a stylish outline”.

The new Prius is 60 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm lower than the model it replaces, which Toyota says provides a much more planted on-road presence while also delivering more occupant and cargo room.

Inside, there’s white ornamentation to evoke bone china, as well as more defined control and display areas with the former closer to the driver.

According to Kouji Toyoshima, the model’s chief engineer: “There is much more to the new Prius than a green image. The exterior has a particularly emotional appearance, thanks in part to the new platform that enables a low slung silhouette similar to a sports car.”

The new Prius will go on sale in Japan at the end of 2015, and is subsequently scheduled for successive launches around the world.