Think Twice About Getting In The Back Of An Uber If It’s A New Toyota Prius

If it’s anything like the past couple of models, then the swanky-looking new Toyota Prius is likely to be a hugely popular car with ride-sharing services like Uber. That means, for lots of us, the bulk of our experience of it will be sitting in the back, quite possibly in a state of some intoxication.

If, however, you order an Uber and a new Prius rolls up, you might want to think twice before merrily clambering into the back seat and arguing with the driver about whether or not you can bring your kebab. That’s because Toyota has just issued a recall on over 200,000 new Priuses because the back doors could swing open while it’s in motion.

This issue is that water can enter the car's electronic door latches, short-circuiting them and thus leaving unlocked doors vulnerable to opening, which would be a thrilling if slightly frightening end to a night out.

The issue affects Priuses sold since last year in North America, Europe and Asia, with around 211,000 cars thought to need the fix. In the short term, Toyota says it can be negated by drivers ensuring they’ve activated the feature that automatically locks the doors when the car is shifted out of park.

Truthfully, it’s unlikely to affect any UK-bound Priuses – Toyota intends to contact the owners of affected cars by June, and the first right-hand drive Priuses aren’t expected to arrive here until July. As is the way with car recalls, the fix will be carried out for free, with Toyota fitting an improved design of latch.

It certainly shouldn’t put anyone – Uber driver or not – off the new Prius, which is as sleek and stylish as it’s ever been in its near-27-year life. Starting at £37,515, UK order books opened last month.