More EV Power Regen via PDA Deceleration Assist?

I've had the '23 Prius XLE less than a year, love the additional power and MPG both improved from the 2019.
Now that I've had some time with the many driving features and assist modes, I recently enabled PDA Proactive Driving Assist. While it's meant as a safety feature, I immediately noticed an increase in regenerative braking, which I believe is based on the sensitivity and car distance settings. I found it comfortable and noticeable in city traffic.
This totally reminded me of what a Tesla feels like, as anyone will tell you, the regenerative braking is heavy on EVs, so much that you barely use the actual brake pedal (good for your brakes' lifespan).
It got me thinking, hmm this whole time I've had PDA disabled (several months)... I wonder if I'll get more MPG now? More use of the electric motor... more "braking" regen?

While using the actual brakes also performs regenerative braking, I did notice something on the instrument panel while using PDA. If you have the EcoZone view on, with the green & white bars, the white EcoZone stays lit while the PDA "deceleration" is active. But if you brake instead of using PDA, the white EcoZone disappears immediately.
It makes me wonder if there's a difference in energy regenerated from deceleration (which I believe is like engine braking) and actual braking. If anything, it might create a smoother transition from stopping to starting, like it keeps the electric motor ready instead of turning it off (?).

I'll see over time if my current hot summer 50MPG average increases.
Either way, I prefer the feel of the PDA deceleration and less lifting of the foot to the brake pedal. Theoretically, it should at least be less wear and tear on my brakes, while also a safety feature.
If you haven't enabled PDA, try it and post your thoughts for in-city stopping and starting. It's similar to adaptive cruise for lower speeds. Not the same thing, but I believe it also works in conjunction with adaptive cruise on the highway as well. It slows your car down for you before using any brakes. I wonder if the brake lights come on when this happens.

2023 Toyota Prius XLE, Guardian Gray
2019 Toyota Prius Limited, Premium JBL Package, Electric Storm Blue (traded)
2014 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, Smoked Quartz Metallic (traded)
2010 Toyota Prius IV, Solar Roof Package, Blue Ribbon Metallic (traded)
2006 Toyota Prius, Package #8, Classic Silver Metallic (sold)
2000 Toyota Celica GT-S, Liquid Silver Metallic (traded)
1996 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24, Black (traded)