Photo: Toyota
Originally referred to simply as the Prius Plug-In Hybrid in 2012, the Prius Prime got its new name during its second generation starting in 2016. The incredibly fuel-efficient model has similar styling to its Prius sibling but offers even more eco-friendliness thanks to its plug-in capability. A handful of updates arrive for the 2021 model year.
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What’s new?
The 2021 Prius Prime gets an upgrade from Toyota Safety Sense-P to Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. Additionally, the base LE now comes with Android Auto compatibility along with the previously included Apple CarPlay.
Exterior
There are no updates for the Prius Prime’s exterior this year, as it maintains its signature style with quad-LED projector headlights, 15-inch wheels, color-keyed roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and its charge port with illumination and charging indicator light. Convenience comes in the form of rain-sensing wipers and LED fog lights on the top-of-the-line Limited trim.
Photo: Toyota
Photo: Toyota
Photo: Toyota
Interior
Inside, the SofTex-trimmed seats are reserved for the XLE and Limited while the base LE gets fabric heated front seats. Soft-touch materials adorn the entire cabin, as do chrome details. When it comes to connectivity, a Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charger is standard on the upper two trims. For the most luxurious audio experience, opt for the Prius Prime Limited, which gives you a JBL system with 10 speakers, SiriusXM, and advanced voice recognition.
Photo: Toyota
Photo: Toyota
Photo: Toyota
Photo: Toyota
Performance
The most exciting part about a plug-in hybrid model is obviously fuel efficiency, and the 2021 Prius Prime doesn’t disappoint. It comes in across the board at 55 mpg in the city, 53 mpg on the highway, 54 mpg combined, 133 MPGe, and a 25-mile EV Mode range. Meanwhile, the Prius Prime still produces a respectable 121 combined horsepower thanks mostly to the might of its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine.
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Safety
The addition of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 means driver-assist features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Bicyclist Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist are now all standard.
Ben never thought he’d be writing about cars for a living, but here he is, knowing more about the Kia Stinger than he’d care to admit. When he’s not devoting his time to researching engine specs and other oh-so-exciting car details, he can be found enjoying time with his wife and dogs. See more articles by Ben.