Toyota has added the option of all-wheel-drive to the hybrid Prius, as part of a range of updates for 2019.

The Prius AWD-i is fitted with an additional electric motor on the rear axle that provides extra traction when pulling away or in slippery conditions.

Toyota says the part time system has little impact on the car’s efficiency or emissions. It emits from 85g/km, an increase of 10g/km from the standard car, and can achieve 58-64mpg.

There is a 45-litre reduction in boot space when all-wheel-drive is fitted.

The refresh includes new bumpers and re-designed tail lights.

Inside, the trim and upholstery have been replaced with higher-quality items and Toyota has revised the Touch 2 infotainment system to improve responsiveness.

A new amplifier improves sound quality and the wireless phone charging tray is now larger to accommodate bigger smartphones.

Second generation Toyota Safety Sense is fitted as standard to all versions of the new Prius, it includes upgraded versions of the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist and Automatic High Beam.

It also introduces Lane Trace Assist, which provides more advanced driving support. The latest advances are supported by enhanced performance of both a single-lens camera and a millimetre-wave radar, expanding the range of hazards that can be detected and improving functionality.

Pricing for the 2019 Toyota Prius with optional all-wheel-drive will be released closer to the car’s official launch date in the spring.