Toyota’s electric revolution: prius vs prime battle for supremacy

The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with fuel efficiency, while the Prius Prime takes that efficiency to the next level with its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) capabilities. Both vehicles offer exceptional fuel economy and a host of advanced features, but which one is right for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Toyota Prius and Prius Prime to help you make an informed decision.

Powertrain

Prius: The Prius features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a single electric motor. The combined system produces 121 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque.

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime retains the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine as the Prius, but adds a more powerful electric motor and a larger battery pack. The combined system delivers 121 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy

Prius: The Prius offers exceptional fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined (58 mpg city/53 mpg highway).

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime’s plug-in hybrid capabilities allow for even greater fuel efficiency. With a fully charged battery, the Prime can travel up to 25 miles on electricity alone, earning an EPA-estimated 133 MPGe. When the battery is depleted, the Prime operates as a traditional hybrid, achieving an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined (58 mpg city/53 mpg highway).

Battery and Charging

Prius: The Prius does not have a plug-in battery.

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime features a 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged using a standard 120-volt outlet or a Level 2 charger. Charging times vary depending on the charging method and battery level.

Range

Prius: The Prius has a gasoline-only range of approximately 480 miles.

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime’s electric-only range is approximately 25 miles. With a full tank of gas, the Prime has a total range of approximately 640 miles.

Features

Prius: The Prius comes well-equipped with a range of standard features, including:

• Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) suite of safety technologies
• 7-inch touchscreen display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Toyota Entune 3.0 infotainment system

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime offers a similar suite of features as the Prius, but adds:

• Larger 11.6-inch touchscreen display
• JBL premium audio system
• Head-up display

Price

Prius: The Prius has a starting MSRP of $24,895.

Prius Prime: The Prius Prime has a starting MSRP of $28,750.

Which One is Right for You?

The Toyota Prius is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and value. The Prius Prime offers even greater fuel savings with its plug-in hybrid capabilities, but comes at a higher price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, driving habits, and budget.

Wrap-Up

The Toyota Prius and Prius Prime are both exceptional vehicles that offer a unique blend of fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and practicality. Whether you’re seeking a traditional hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, Toyota has a solution that will meet your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid?
A: A hybrid uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, while a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can also be plugged in to charge its battery. PHEVs typically offer greater electric-only range than traditional hybrids.

Q: How long does it take to charge the Prius Prime‘s battery?
A: Charging times vary depending on the charging method and battery level. Using a standard 120-volt outlet, it can take up to 5.5 hours to fully charge the battery. With a Level 2 charger, charging time is reduced to approximately 2 hours.

Q: Can the Prius Prime drive on electricity alone?
A: Yes, the Prius Prime can travel up to 25 miles on electricity alone when fully charged. Once the battery is depleted, the Prime operates as a traditional hybrid.