2013 Toyota Prius: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The main change for the 2013 Toyota Prius is the new Persona Series Special Edition, which adds a darker look and upgraded cabin trim. Otherwise, the Prius lineup carries over with no major mechanical, safety, or technology updates.

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About the 2013 Toyota Prius

3rd-generation Prius liftback (2010-2015), in the middle of the run after the 2012 design update; 2013 Prius Plug-in is the closely related first-generation US plug-in version on the same XW30-era platform, in its second model year.

Toyota positions the Prius as the everyday hybrid that makes exceptional fuel economy easy without asking buyers to give up passenger space or hatchback usefulness. The brand’s messaging centers on 50-MPG efficiency, midsize-class interior room, low emissions and approachable technology. In practice, the 2013 Prius is a practical five-door commuter and small-family car first, with the Plug-in version adding short electric driving for buyers who want even less gas use on local trips.

The 2013 Prius lineup ranges from the efficiency-focused Prius Two to the more comfortable Four and premium Five, which has LED headlights and 17-inch wheels. The new Persona gives the Prius Three a more distinctive look, while the Prius Plug-in pairs short-distance electric driving with the familiar hybrid system; its Advanced trim adds features such as heated SofTex seats and a head-up display.

What changed, by category

Styling

The new Persona Series Special Edition adds dark-finish 17-inch wheels, black SofTex seat and steering-wheel trim with dark red stitching, and dark chrome cabin accents. It is based on the Prius Three.

2013 Toyota Prius specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Toyota PriusOne6 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusTwo3 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusBase0 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusFive1 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusFour0 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusThree1 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusAdvanced0 in stock	2013 Toyota PriusPersona Series Special Edition0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter	4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT	Automatic, CVT
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD	FWD
Fuel Type	Hybrid	Hybrid	Plug-In Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Hybrid	Plug-In Hybrid	Hybrid
MPG City	51 mpg	51 mpg		51 mpg	51 mpg	51 mpg		51 mpg
MPG Highway	48 mpg	48 mpg		48 mpg	48 mpg	48 mpg		48 mpg
Horsepower	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp	134 hp
Torque	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft	105 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft	21.6 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in	36 in
Seats	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Doors	4	4	4	4	4	4	4	4
MPGe Combined			95				95
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Automatic Leveling Headlights
Cruise Control
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Headlights
Power Moonroof
Rear Spoiler
Entertainment & Electronics
AM/FM Radio
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Smartphone Interface
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Heated Front Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start

How the 2014 Toyota Prius compares

The 2014 Toyota Prius is mostly a carryover; the main change is the departure of the Persona Series Special Edition. The regular hybrid and Prius Plug-in otherwise return without major mechanical, safety, or technology updates.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2013 Toyota Prius?

The biggest change is the addition of the Persona Series Special Edition. Based on the Prius Three, it has dark-finish 17-inch wheels, a black SofTex-trimmed cabin with dark red stitching, and dark chrome interior accents.

Did the 2013 Toyota Prius get a new engine or hybrid system?

No. The 2013 Prius keeps the previous year’s 1.8-liter hybrid system, and the Prius Plug-in also carries over without a mechanical update.

Is the 2013 Prius Persona a performance model?

No. The 2013 Prius Persona is an appearance-focused special edition rather than a performance model. Its distinguishing features are the darker wheels, black SofTex trim, red stitching, and dark chrome cabin accents.

Did the 2013 Prius Plug-in change from 2012?

No. The 2013 Prius Plug-in carries over without equipment-model changes after its 2012 introduction. It retains plug-in charging, short-distance electric driving, and regular hybrid operation after the battery’s usable charge is depleted.

Is the 2013 Toyota Prius a redesign?

No. The 2013 Prius is not a redesign. It remains part of the third generation and follows the 2012 design update, with the Persona special edition as its main model-year change.