Toyota is undoubtedly the leader when it comes to hybrid vehicles. The Japanese automaker popularized hybrids with the launch of the original Prius back in 1997. Decades later, hybrids remain a key part of Toyota’s lineup. Two of the most popular are the conventional Toyota Prius hatchback and its plug-in sibling, the Prius Prime. Both models received full redesigns for 2023, so this is the perfect time to see how they compare.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll highlight the key differences between the 2023 Toyota Prius and 2023 Toyota Prius Prime to help you determine which of these hybrid stalwarts is the better choice depending on your needs.
Powertrain and Performance
The most significant difference between the Prius and Prius Prime lies underneath the hood. Let’s take a closer look at what each model is working with:
2023 Toyota Prius
The standard Prius utilizes Toyota’s tried-and-true hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors. Total system output comes to 196 horsepower, which is adequate for this type of vehicle. Acceleration to 60 mph takes about 7.0 to 7.5 seconds depending on trim. The Prius is front-wheel drive only.
2023 Toyota Prius Prime
As a plug-in hybrid, the Prius Prime has a more advanced powertrain. It matches a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine with two electric motors for a total of 220 horsepower. This gives the Prime quicker acceleration, needing only about 6.6 seconds to reach 60 mph. Like the standard Prius, the Prime is front-wheel drive only.
Advantage: Prius Prime
With a more powerful plug-in hybrid system, the Prime is definitively the better performer. The extra low-end torque from the electric motors gives it noticeably peppier acceleration. The Prime also offers pure EV driving for short trips.
Range and MPG
When it comes to driving range, the Prius and Prius Prime are closely matched thanks to their fuel-sipping hybrid powertrains.
2023 Toyota Prius
The EPA rates Prius LE and XLE models at 57 mpg city/56 highway/57 combined. The Prius Limited does slightly better at 57/57/57 mpg. Total driving range on a tank of gas is over 600 miles.
2023 Toyota Prius Prime
In hybrid driving mode after the battery has depleted, the Prius Prime manages 51 mpg city/48 highway/50 combined per the EPA. It has a smaller 8.8-gallon gas tank, giving it around 430 to 450 miles of total gas-only range. However, factoring in the Prime’s 44-mile electric range, its maximum range exceeds 650 miles with a full charge and full tank.
Advantage: Prius Prime
The Prius Prime ultimately wins out here thanks to its 44 miles of all-electric range on a full charge. For shorter drives and commuting, you may be able to go days or even weeks without needing gas. It’s also incredibly efficient once the battery runs out.
Charging Capabilities
As a plug-in hybrid, the Prius Prime offers charging capabilities the standard Prius lacks. So what are drivers working with in terms of charging times and access to charging stations?
Using a Level 2 charger, the Prime’s 8.8 kWh battery pack can be replenished in about 2 hours. With a regular 120V household outlet (Level 1), it takes about 5.5 hours. The Prime gives you flexibility in terms of charging solutions.
The Prime also comes standard with Toyota’s Prime Charging Station that identifies nearby public charging stations that are compatible with the vehicle. So you can easily find places to top up the battery when running errands.
Overall, the Prius Prime’s ability to charge via wall outlets or public stations gives it an edge over the conventionally-powered Prius.
Advantage: Prius Prime
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
The Prius and Prius Prime are similarly sized vehicles, so passenger and cargo room are nearly identical. Both cars seat five comfortably thanks to spacious legroom and headroom.
In back, they each provide 19.8 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats. Flip the 60/40 split folding seats down, and you get a flat load floor with around 63 cubic feet of maximum capacity. Whether you need to haul luggage, outdoor gear, or make a run to the home improvement store, these hybrids offer ample practicality.
Advantage: Tie
Technology and Safety
Toyota equips both the 2023 Prius and Prius Prime with the latest tech features and advanced driver aids. Highlights include:
- Toyota Safety System 3.0: Pre-collision system w/pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, road sign assist
- Blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert
- 10 airbags
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Amazon Alexa integration
- 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Optional JBL premium audio system
- Integrated navigation system (Prime only)
- Toyota Prime charging station locator (Prime only)
When it comes to safety assist and infotainment technology, the Prius and Prius Prime both deliver excellent equipment. All trims of the Prime do come standard with integrated navigation, giving it a slight tech edge. But overall, both hybrids provide similar tech capabilities.
Advantage: Prius Prime
Pricing and Trims
As you’d expect, the Prius Prime does cost more than the standard Prius. Here’s a look at starting MSRPs by trim level:
2023 Toyota Prius
- LE – $27,450
- XLE – $29,850
- Limited- $34,450
2023 Toyota Prius Prime
- SE – $32,350
- XSE – $35,750
- XSE Premium – $39,220
Keep in mind, the Prius Prime may qualify for a federal tax incentive up to $4,502, effectively lowering your price. There are also state and local incentives that could save you thousands more.
When it comes to cost, the standard Prius wins out by quite a bit. But the Prius Prime helps offset some of the difference through potential buyer incentives.
Advantage: Prius
Prius vs. Prius Prime: Which is Better for You?
So when considering the 2023 Toyota Prius versus the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime, which hybrid model claims the advantage?
Toyota Prius
- Lower starting MSRP
- Excellent MPG
- Adequate performance
- All trims offer generous safety/tech features
Toyota Prius Prime
- More powerful performance
- 44-mile EV range for local driving
- Superb MPGe rating
- Available federal tax credit lowers effective cost
- Standard navigation and charging station locator
Ultimately, there’s no definitive winner here as both the Prius and Prius Prime have their strong suits. Those wanting the lowest purchase price and operating costs are better off with the Prius. However, the Prius Prime offers a more compelling driving experience along with potential tax savings. Evaluate what factors are most important for your situation to determine if the standard Prius or Prius Prime is the better fit.
Either way, with Toyota’s proven hybrid technology, fuel efficiency, and renowned reputation for reliability, you can’t go wrong buying a Prius or Prius Prime in 2023.
Recent Prius vs. Prius Prime News and Reviews
To supplement our head-to-head comparison, here’s a sampling of what industry experts and reviewers are saying about the 2023 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime:
Car & Driver – “The Toyota‘s Prius Prime remains the brand‘s fuel-mileage champ…Pairing a plug-in hybrid powertrain with Toyota‘s most aerodynamic bodywork yet allows the 2023 Prius Prime to provide between 53 and 56 MPGe, according to the EPA…the Prius Prime doesn‘t force owners to sacrifice much versus its hybrid siblings.”
Green Car Reports – “The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime not only achieves an EPA-rated range of more than 50 miles electric, it gets better mileage than the standard Prius Hybrid once the battery is depleted… it manages to provide low ownership costs through both potentially reduced time at the pump, as well as lower operating costs.”
MotorTrend – “Despite starting higher than more conventional, gas-only versions of Toyota models, the Prius Prime manages to undercut the cheapest Tesla Model 3 while lining up favorably against European plug-in competitors.”
The reviews indicate the Prius Prime sees greater acceptance from critics compared to previous years thanks to vehicle improvements and fluctuating economic factors. While the conventional Prius remains a smart choice for many, the Prius Prime looks more compelling than ever versus other plug-in hybrids.
Key Takeaways: 2023 Toyota Prius vs Prius Prime
- The Prius Prime plug-in boasts quicker acceleration and 50+ miles of EV range, but the conventional Prius offers a lower purchase price.
- Both hybrids earn 50+ MPG in real-world driving, but sole reliance on gas gives the Prius a slight edge in total range.
- The Prius Prime justifies its higher MSRP somewhat through federal tax credits and potential state/local incentives.
- Standard safety and technology features are very comparable between the two, with built-in navigation being the Prime’s notable exclusive feature.
- Shoppers need to weigh performance/tech versus upfront pricing/operating costs to decide if the Prius or Prius Prime better aligns with their needs.
Whether you select the Prius Prime as your fuel-sipping commuter car or the Prius as a practical hatchback for road trips, either model gives you Toyota’s proven hybrid dependability. For many drivers, the choice comes down to driving tendencies and budget. Carefully assess your personal situation to pick the right hybrid for you.
