The fourth-generation Toyota Prius has been photographed completely undisguised prior to its debut next week.

These photos, which seem to have been taken while the next-generation hybrid hatch was strapped in for a trans-oceanic flight, were first published by the Toyota Prius Club of Malaysia. They show an all-new car that, stylistically at least, is a radical departure from the second- and third-generation hatchbacks.

While the basics of the aerodynamically efficient "Kammback" body style remain, the new Prius' design is heavily influenced by the Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle and largely correlates with the design sketches drawn up by a Japanese magazine in early July.

The new car's radically styled headlights, beak-like nose, Dali-esque tail-lights, false window panel in the C-pillar, and disappearing character wedge along the rear flanks are all new to the Prius range.

Under the skin, the Prius will be one of the first production vehicles to use the Toyota New Global Architecture. Like flexible component sets from other companies, it will help Toyota reduce development and manufacturing costs, as well as reduce weight in future vehicles.