Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius is a compact hybrid hatchback with seating for up to five passengers. In the automaker’s lineup, it sits above the subcompact Prius C (discontinued in 2020) and the midsize Prius V (discontinued in 2018), and it also comes in a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant called the Prius Prime, which first appeared in 2017. Its most recent (fourth) generation debuted in 2016, offering updated styling, a new chassis with better handling, improved fuel efficiency, and a more refined interior. An all-new fifth generation is expected to arrive in 2023.

Toyota offers the Prius in a variety of trims. Earlier models use a numerical naming convention, which ranges from One to Five. The One offers basic items such as keyless entry, while higher trims introduce additional luxuries such as a navigation system. Toyota revised the trim hierarchy starting in 2019 to include the L Eco, LE, XLE, and Limited. Similar to the One, the entry-level L Eco offers essential items, while the LE adds a few upgrades, such as a rear wiper and a spare tire. The XLE introduces a larger touchscreen infotainment system as well as upgraded upholstery. At the top of the range, the Limited adds niceties such as rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, a head-up display, and parking assist.

Since 2016, the Prius has employed a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 121 horsepower. Earlier models feature a similar setup with slightly more power but slightly lower fuel economy ratings. Power routes via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) to the front wheels on most versions, though all-wheel drive (called AWD-e) has been available on certain trims since 2019. The Prius Prime, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, offers up to 25 miles of all-electric range, thanks to its small lithium-ion battery pack, which can be recharged in approximately 5.5 hours using a standard 120-volt outlet.

In 2016, Toyota upgraded the Prius' standard infotainment touchscreen from 6.1 to 7 inches, and in 2020 the automaker also added standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Notably, the Prius Prime offers an optional 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen for an ever more advanced infotainment experience. The Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams, became standard in 2017.

We recommend 2017 and newer models due to their improved fuel economy, more refined interior, and additional standard safety features. The XLE trim offers a good balance of features and value, while the Limited provides the most luxurious experience behind the wheel. Those seeking a Prius with all-wheel drive should look for 2019 or newer AWD-e models.