The 2024 Prius Prime Is Exactly The Kind Of Crazy Prius Toyota Needed. 10 Years Ago...

10 years ago America was NUTS for the Prius. Toyota sold more Prii than any of their trucks, SUVs or crossovers. Pundits assumed Prius would even eclipse Camry and Corolla one day. But that day never came because the Prius was eclipsed by the rise of the modern EV that did two things no Prius had ever done: look good and be fun to drive... Until now.
Clearly the horse left the barn some time ago, but this Prius has the chops to be that fun to drive efficiency king we all knew Toyota could build. It's good looking, the interior is practical, the design is funky-chic. Despite that however, Toyota's sales goal for this generation is about 200,000 units less a year than it was in 2014. Ouch. RAV4 Prime? That's the new sales leader.
If on the other hand you care about efficiency and emissions, the Prime is one of the most efficient vehicles on sale in America and according to recent reporting, might actually be the greenest car you can buy in 2024.
The only thing it needs to be perfect? Wider tires...
Join this channel to get access to perks! / @aautobuyersguide
Buy Merch! aoamerch.com
The Pod: / autobuyersguidepodcast
EV Buyers Guide: / evbuyersguide
The Mountain Garden: / themountaingarden
Follow us on Facebook: theautobuyersguide/

[@jasoncarter7880]

This is the first vehicle review I've watched in a while. I like the way you now show the measured dB level and mpg numbers now, instead of the older letter grades.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks! That's the feedback we need!

[@jamesgibson7486]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide Would you consider updating the decibel readings on the website? I'm quite interested in finding the quietest car and your data is helpful.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We plan on it, but it's kind of a long list ahead of that task...

[@firefalcoln]

I really enjoy the visual dots for the comparisons to similar vehicles. Much easier to get a sense of how much better or worse Alex thinks one car is to another.

[@brandonmalin4178]

Alex standing in the rain is becoming a new staple of the channel. Appreciate the dedication to still getting the video out!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I should have been a weatherman specializing in severe weather coverage...

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@AAutoBuyersGuideSpecializing in weather you don't have to shovel? 😉

[@kalmmonke5037]

​@@AAutoBuyersGuide lotus-like handling fo driving effciently is more fun than simply having mroe power in a numb car. driving effciently is to make more power at optimal rpm according to bfsc chart of engine (electric motor have similar thing) on rather downhillish roads more so than uphillish ones, speed up even beyond areodynamicly effceint speed before uphills . brake , steer, minimall and smoothly, regen braking isnt as efffceint and lower battery and brake longveity while trie longvety is roughly the same eitehr way

[@JJRyanOnAir]

Alright .. I know angle was different due to the rain but this shot with the hills in the background should be the new standard going forward. It looked great albiet made me look at the background multiple times instead of the car because it was such a killer view. What a view to see every morning.

[@NachturnalOne]

Seriously - where is this? I need to move here.

[@Sheepleton]

This is one of the few times I'm completely okay with losing headroom and cargo capacity. It looks worlds better than not just previous models but also most other sedans. I've started seeing them in person and they look great. Now bring on the hybrid mini truck Toyota!

[@WhenItsHalfPastFive]

19:09 that baby in the back went flying! 😂

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Always secure your *actual** babies LOL

[@abuelb]

😮 That's the nicest looking Prius ever made.

[@roxburyranger]

As a 2024 Prius Prime owner, I have a couple of comments. I was surprised that you didn't mention (unless I missed it) the fact that the Prime doesn't offer AWD. It's really not important (even in wintry MA, where I live), but it is an omission. From a driving dynamics standpoint, I have no idea what you're talking about. Cornering is absolutely flat, predictable and without any discernable understeer. I'm not really sure what the 225 tire fixation is about. Additionally, I am in a lot of cars, and the Prius Prime is very quiet; I can't fathom what you were experiencing. In all other regards, Alex, I think you're spot on. We have the glass roof version, and it has ample headroom for me (6'1") when the seat is lowered, but I can't imagine what it would be like without the extra sunshade inch. All-in-all it is a truly amazing car and puts a smile on my face every time I drive.

[@dougmcdougall3997]

We are picking one up tomorrow this will be our second Prius !

[@sergeantbigmac]

Another car review channel here on YT tested this new gen prius's AWD and suffice to say it was awful, its a gimmick a sales pitch, very little power in the rear tires and poor traction control. If I had the option between the 2 id still get the 2WD and avoid the extra weight and complexities of the AWD split power/extra traction motor

[@Trammael]

@@sergeantbigmacCorolla Hybrid / 4th gen Prius AWD the rear motor is only 7 hp but is a 5mpg hit on efficiency’s!

[@mrxman581]

Good objective review. I have a 2023 Prius Prime and love it. Have had it for 5 months and have only put $30 in gas in California.

[@antoniosimental8978]

Nice. With the solar panels?

[@MauiWauiPineappleExpress]

The back design was inspired from the Toyota Corolla (E100) Liftback!

[@Luma_29]

Pretty funny if you think about the fact that the Camry, Crown, and Prius all got very similar exterior design changes for this generation and all three are now all-hybrid. Never would I have thought that the Camry and Avalon replacement would get the Prius treatment and it actually working

[@naveenthemachine]

But the 9th gen Camry looks ugly 😂. Like it’s unattractive vs the 8th gen

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

​@@naveenthemachine 😂 new 9th gen camry looks miles better than the old 8th gen. you are just a serial toyota/lexus hater.😂.

[@normanli7085]

​@naveenthemachine the new accord looks worse than the new camry. At least the camry u can get a red interior with the updated tech and u get a panoramic sunroof which the accord doesn't have

[@lionintu]

I can't wait to get a 2025 Camry

[@andrewyt-gv8iv]

Unfortunately, Toyota made about half a dozen models with the solar roof. I looked very hard a couple of months ago and it was completely unobtainium in California. I’m convinced it’s a marketing stunt for press only.

[@palakaman]

More than likely the Prius Prime will be my next car. It makes the most sense coming from a 2013 Volt. My biggest issue with the volt was the rear leg room which the Prius addresses. I did sit in one a few months back. The drivers seat was a very unique feeling which would take some getting used to.

[@ScramJett]

Agreed. My 2017 Gen 2 Volt has a few more years left before I have to worry about replacing it, but the Prius Prime is (surprisingly) a solid choice when it’s time. Maybe even a AWD option in a few years?

[@thunderb00m]

If you want leg room, i high recommend honda clarity. I have one and i can't imagine why it was discontinued. Doesn't effect me too much though.

[@grcigar9911]

Looking at the interior, shooting location, etc., makes me think of the recent Toyota-Subaru partnership. This is the size vehicle and target market where I would love to see future collaboration with respect to hybrid powertrains. So I will go in a different direction than the performance Prius model suggested at least in the NA market and would prefer to see more engineered style in the way of a CX-50/Crosstrek type Prius.

[@hyrenaj2888]

I guess we all have our wish lists, but developing a car is a delicate balancing act. Personally I would've wished for an 18-20kWh battery, which would give it more range and unleash more power from the motor. Packaging could probably be optimized to reduce the wasted interior volume where the cable is. A little more sound deadening to bring it down to

[@sergiysaliyev9023]

I'd totally pay an extra $1000 for the Prius if Toyota was to put a good amount of sound deadening into the car. Quiet ride makes a huge difference in my mind, and I wound 't mind loosing a fraction of fuel economy for it.

[@DrawsOnCad]

I agree, and thats what makes the first gen Volt so good. It’s solid, and very quiet.

[@alexmassengale433]

You could pay an audio shop to put some in the door panels.

[@RennieAsh]

I guess there's the Crown . But bigger heavier vehicle that's more like a sedan practically

[@Davmm96]

And not be able to hear a firetruck coming. God I hate people who can't notice emergency vehicles due to enormous insulation and music playing in their cars. Meanwhile, as a pedestrians, my ears hurt from the sirens.

[@rustbeltrobclassic2512]

I had an ES300h as a loaner.. it was such a nice place to be, actually enjoyed driving it at 45mpg average and it was incredibly comfortable and quiet.

[@ALMX5DP]

Kinda wonder how a Prius with the 2.5L Hybrid (w/ 245hp) would feel in terms of performance. Make it happen Toyota!

[@Boburto]

I hope they make a Lexus version.

[@vasilykashirin9396]

and 2025 Toyota Crown Sport AWD I wait it😂❤✨👍🤞🤩 of course the Plug-In!!!☝️

[@kalmmonke5037]

it maybe able to do better mpg with bigger engien if you drive it properly

[@appleforever6664]

I bought my daughter the 2024 Prius Limited Guardian Gray and just got the windows tinted! It looks beautiful! The new Prius looks like it’s in the wrong decade. More like a 2034 type of car with its modern design and safety features!

[@DrawsOnCad]

Annnnd they are very limited production.

[@GaryKetchum808]

I never hated the old Prii, but i legit want a new Prius Prime. It checks all the boxes and it looks great.

[@firefalcoln]

I could see myself in one of these a few years down the line when they're a bit older and cheaper. I bought a 2nd generation Volt about a year ago and have really enjoy it. A PHEV makes a lot of sense if you're able to charge your vehicle for free or cheap at work and have a manageable commute distance. This prius seems like an awfully similar car except for what Alex said about the new Prius prime not sacrificing efficiency for the extra range. The volt gets about 38 mpg in hybrid mode. This prius gets about 48. This prius also will use gas in default mode if you push the car to go super fast. The volt will only use gas if the battery is low or if you put it in hold mode. However, the volt's 0-60 time in pure electric is a bit faster than this prius (7.8 seconds) versus over 10 seconds for the prime. So it's not as necessary for the volt to need to switch in order to accelerate at a respectable speed. In fact the volt is only 0.3 seconds faster 0-60 in hybrid mode versus pure electric. So this prius is much faster when tapping into gasoline. But the electric only power lags behind a bit. Both cars have limited back seat space. The volt has nicer let bolstering for the rear corner seats in the car. But the back center seat in the volt is really only for tiny kids or child seats. the 10'-15' volts don't even have a 5th seat. Overall if you think this car seems great, but you don't want to pay the cost of purchasing a 0-3 year old vehicle, give a used chevy volt a look.

[@FlyingNDriving]

I was getting 42 highway 47 city in my gen2 volt when having to be in hybrid mode

[@firefalcoln]

@@FlyingNDriving well, you probably were driving less aggressively than me or in more favorable conditions. And you’d probably get about 60mpg in this Prius prime in hybrid mode then.

[@KealeyOnCars]

Hey Alex! I had probably the exact same car last year from Toyota for a week. In sunny Southern California, I was getting over 1 kWh of energy added every day from the solar roof. Given that I was getting nearly 4 mi/kWh from slugging through LA traffic, so I was adding about 4 miles of EV range every day. It’s possible it can add almost 1,500 miles of range just from the sun every day in a year, that’s pretty cool when you think about. Preliminarily estimates say it would take about 6-7 years to break even from a cost perspective but just from added convenience alone, I think it’s worth it. And cool.

[@fluffysharkdatazz9460]

The instrument cluster was way better for me than the last two. I can actually see it in my peripheral. Especially last gen, I had to lower the seat all the way just to look to the right without extending my neck too much, and testing this one was a vast improvement

[@AnonymousV4]

I was watching your review from ages ago about the first Plug In Prius, still the definitive video on these cars. Thanks for all the details

[@michaelstaruszkiewicz8798]

I would use this Prius with the rear seats down to max out utility as I'm an empty nester.

[@gianniclaud]

I wish I was an empty nester. I feel suffocated.

[@alwaysiyi272]

I think Toyota took the Prius in the right direction, making it more desirable, sporty and most importantly good-looking, and while that does sacrifice some space, Toyota doesn't need the Prius to be the do-it-all hybrid anymore, when the Prius first came out, it was the only hybrid in their lineup until the Camry hybrid came out in 06, followed by the highlander hybrid, but today, toyota makes a hybrid version of all their vehicles, do you want more space and a more mainstream looking car both inside and out?, there is the Corolla hybrid which still gets amazing mpg, want even more space?, the Corolla Cross hybrid exists, you can then move up to the Camry, Crown, RAV4, Highlander, Grand Highlander etc. They basically have a hybrid vehicle in each segment to cover everyone's needs so I think they could definitely afford to make the Prius less practical and more desirable which seems to be working because I know people who wouldn't have ever considered a Prius actually going out to buy one cos it looks good, and isn't hilariously slow anymore.

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

Agreed

[@kolt9051]

Thanks for another great review (I especially like the comparison section this time due to many # of models) and its cool you've read all the comments

[@ThanhHa-fm2nw]

Outstanding overview! thank you.

[@WiiSmHr]

A model V from gen3 but in latest incarnation would be interesting to imagine. It wouldn't happen since RAV4 is it's functionally equivalent.

[@ALMX5DP]

I think that might be what the Crown Insignia will be.

[@tinhinnh]

closest thing is CC, signia is more of a midsize

[@johnny02128]

if the Prius Prime was AWD it would sell in droves in northern states. Looks like there is space for it underneath the cargo area. Hopefully it comes

[@lionintu]

Winter tires

[@johnny02128]

@lionintu still not enough imho. I like awd traction, though I currently do use winter tires on my awd cars as well.

[@mikej238]

Not required fwd in a small car is more than adequate with winter tires. Learn to drive

[@snwbrdn777]

Winter tires are not enough in the mountains. I have seen way too many fwd cars with winter tires that couldn't make it up inclines.

[@lionintu]

@@snwbrdn777 your average person does not live in the mountains

[@Rioichi4]

Probably just repeating sentiments here, but I really really love this new Prius. I work at a car rental agency and we got our 2024 Prii came in a few months ago. I walked past one on the lot and went "wow what new modern EV is that?" hot damn its a Prius. It's super sleek and sexy and VERY fun to drive. I'm not a fan of low sedan driving positions, but because of how the dash is set up, I don't have to sit as low as I would in a "normal" setup. It might seem a little weird, but you can adjust to it way easier than, say, a Tesla with the speedometer in the infotainment screen off to your right. I'm sad we lost reat seat cupholders and some cargo space, but overall very impressed with this car. I also wanted to comment on people saying 10sec 0-60 is slow. They have CLEARLY never driven a Geo Metro (my first car lol).

[@kenkozawa9810]

We have a 2011 and 2023, love both though I will be forever curious about how a 3rd gen with a 5th gen powertrain would be..

[@dannee16888]

Giving that the solar roof option is added $650 dollars, if you get ~47 mpg and about $3/gal, you would need to drive 10,184 miles from solar to break even. I can still see it as a good option if you park your car in the driveway.

[@kieransteele7223]

Much less if you factor for higher gas prices

[@ThereAreNoHandlesLeft]

​@@kieransteele7223 $4gal is still 7300 miles.

[@Big_Red1]

Can this option use the solar to run the ventilation when the car is off? If so, I would spring for it just for that.

[@Rhaman68]

That’s really good solar performance since these Toyota PHEV last for over 15 years. Thanks for the good news

[@seanroddy4084]

Boy, that is one nice view from your driveway. I'm from Detroit. 😢

[@michaelcavalier8750]

From what I have read, the 2nd generation Chevrolet Volt was one of the few plug-in hybrid vehicles that had about the same acceleration whether running only on the battery or in hybrid mode.

[@laura-ann.0726]

I had a 2019 Prius Prime. It was an amazing car for fuel economy (58~63 mpg), with 32 miles EV range at 25~40 mph. But I gave it to my daughter, with 37,000 miles on it, because it had too many limitations: the shallow cargo depth due to the battery placement was a problem every time I had to haul anything taller than a bag of groceries, and the car sat so low to the ground that it was hard to climb in and out of it (I'm 67 and not as limber as I once was). I replaced it with a Rav4 Prime, because I'm convinced that the PHEV concept is ideal, and Toyota knows how to build Hybrid powertrains that are bulletproof. The Rav4 Prime loses about 12~15 mpg compared to the Prius Prime, but it has way more carrying capacity, it has a spare tire (the Prius Prime doesn't), and it's way easier for a mobility-impaired person to get and out of. It's also AWD (standard on both SE and XSE trims), and it can tow up to 2,500 pounds. I never had an issue with headroom on my 2019 Prius Prime, and I'm 6-1", so this new 2024 model must have had a significant lowering of the roof, or else the power seat is higher than the non-power seat I had in my 2019. I do love the way this car looks. Elegant, and not as "space-age" as the older one. I do wonder about the 14 kW-hr battery rating quoted in this video: is that the "total capacity", or the "available capacity?". In the 2019 Prius Prime I had, the battery was 8.2 kW-hr rated, with about 5.5 kW-hr actually usuable. In my 2023 Rav4 Prime, that battery is rated 18.2 kW-hr, but only 14.5 kW-hr is actually usable.

[@jestercinti]

Well done on the infotainment song selection :-)

[@okramando]

The solar generation over time is seriously impressive

[@sigfigs]

I have been keeping track of Toyota for a while now. You never know when your daily driver will be totaled in an accident or natural disaster and you are trying to find a new car as a replacement. This new Prius is at the top of the list. I would order one now but I haven't had a car payment in around 15 years plus the sales and property tax is high enough to be absurd so I'm holding back. This presentation is very well done. Thanks for the content.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for watching! -Travis

[@superbear617]

Great design and vastly improved design (esp. compared to prior version, though I really like the design on 3rd gen). My '13 Prius is rated 49 mpg city/46 mpg highway, so mpg-wise, the new Prius is not a lot better. I like the feature where you can "demand" electric only, versus letting the car decide to go to gas when you accelerate. Too late? Maybe, based on price point compared to EVs that are not much more. Also, these models are commanding premiums in my area due to scarcity. But, congratulations to Toyota designers for breaking the mold of the prior version design.

[@pauld6967]

I have a PHEV that has served me well. If I were to trade it in, the Prius Prime is the top contender. Last year the local dealership said they wouldn't get one in for me to look at until around September. When I went back, they still hadn't received one. So, I put the idea on the shelf. Now that we are in March, this video has motivated me to check again. The EV range means I could make the round trip into town for routine errands and would handle two-thirds of the drive to the office, where I can also plug in. I expect that would bump my once-every-two-weeks visits to the gast stations to once-every-three-weeks.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Amazing video Alex.

[@codedGiraffe]

The gen 2 Volt is still quite comparable with the range and wider tires. GM could've improved the efficiency a little and actually marketed the thing better instead of killing it right before what would have been its prime

[@bruddahmanmatt]

Yeah but then it wouldn’t have been typical GM to give folks a mediocre Gen 1 followed by a much improved Gen 2 only to kill it off prematurely.

[@ianjay5301]

@@bruddahmanmatt My Gen 1 Volt got MORE all electric range than the Prius Prime. It was not mediocre - superb highway cruiser and an all around decent car. Had it for 10 years and sold it to buy a Model 3 which was the only mistake I made. In fact, the de-contented Gen 2 had a bit more range but was not as good as the first version.

[@FuncleChuck]

God I wish they'd make 50% of Prius with this powertrain

[@dj2000lbs]

Toyota should make a Lexus version of the Prius

[@EricMitton]

They sold the Lexus HS for years and it’s pretty darned close to a Lexus Prius

[@kalmmonke5037]

@@EricMitton interestingly crash saftey and mpg worse than prius and it wasnt much of a quiet car either

[@ishan6771]

Honda should bring back the clarity

[@lionintu]

Civic hybrid and accord hybrid dont make the Clarity useless?

[@KenniTheKid]

Excellent review as always but i do I wish you dove more into the actual EV range you're getting. I have 23' Prime and i find the EV range im getting is quite abit lower than advertised. Weather has been hovering around 40F so hopefully it improves in the summer. One last complaint i have with the car, which im happy you addressed, was the minimal sound deadening - i really wish Toyota stuffed more material to dull out the drone of the engine during acceleration even if it cost a small price/weight premium.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

After a 21 month wait our Prime arrived one week ago. It has only been charged four times since. The first charge returned 82km (51.25 miles), with an ambient temperature of around 40f. Pretty good, considering in our community, the elevation goes from sea-level to over 400' numerous times in just a few miles. Gas here runs close to $7.00 per USG, sparing it then is important. Really feel the Prime is the ultimate choice.

[@KenniTheKid]

@@TomLawlor-iq6gm If thats true then i may need to get mine checked. I'm lucky to get 50km out of mine.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

@@KenniTheKid We live in a "sleepy" little town where the speed limits are usually under 50kph. Driving at the limit makes a huge difference with the traction battery. My wife drives in a more "sporty" fashion than me and she does not get the same range. Key to getting the Max. milage in EV is driving smoothly.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

@@KenniTheKid I think I know why your not getting the same range. The first time we left home with a full charge it was 4c. No use of the heater at all. End of the trip(s|), we had gone 82 km with 10% left in the battery. Today, with 100% we only went 55km and the gauge was down to less than 10%. Only difference was, it was only 1c today and the heater was set to 26c the whole time. Put your car in EV mode and set the heater to high. Step out of the car and you'll hear the roar of the heat pump. It's a high power draw. It goes without saying; use of heated seats/wheel will also drain the juice faster. In ECO mode the heater/AC is limited in output due to this. Pretty sure that if you set the cabin temperature lower and keep the fan speed down the draining effect will be reduced. When you are in HV mode this issue disappears as it's the engine that provides heat and cooling. Also used the EV charge button for the first time today, pretty neat. It charged the battery from 0 to 5% in minutes. I'm not sure what the gas milage penalty is when using this feature but looks like a full charge would not take long. And beware: I highly recommend using the Hold function for the transmission at all times. Never have I seen an automatic shift with reverse being the first (last ?), shift position on the selector. Like most experienced drivers I often do things by rote when driving. Twice already I've put the vehicle in reverse and not not realized it. If you are looking down the car will creep backwards and may not notice. Very nearly backed into our other car few days ago. Using the Hold function keeps the handbrake ON until you press the gas peddle by which time you should be paying attention. Hope you guys enjoy the Prime, I know we will.

[@KenniTheKid]

@@TomLawlor-iq6gm Good info! its unfortunate the heatpump has such a big effect but i don't think i'll sacrifice comfort for afew more km in range.I think i will remote start the car with the charger plugged to precondition the cabin then use it after to save some energy.

[@MistSoalar]

How much do you think the proper price for the solar option?

[@mjrtensepian1727]

Dang, that weather must be wreaking havoc on your already-soggy microwaved bacon!

[@1Springloaded]

Great look at the car. I will be waiting for the 2025 Civic hybrid review. I am really hoping it Will be affordable.

[@djplonghead5403]

10-gallon tank... in some places, it will be cheaper to fill up the tank and get 600 miles of range compared to supercharging a Tesla (300 miles) 2 times (600 miles) which might be $30 to supercharge each time. California has $5 gas so $50 to fill up the gas tank for 600 miles compared to $60 to supercharge. Not to mention you are saving an hour.

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

New prius/prime is a class leader and offers excellent performance power quality interior design exterior design value and more. Naveenthemachine will post his normal comments like the class donkey

[@ninji5226]

I'm pretty sure I just seen one of these driving recently and my honest to god first thought was "is that a Huracan"? Closer inspection made the answer obvious but I would have never guessed in a million years I was looking at a Prius.

[@ianjay5301]

When I ordered my Prius Prime XSE last October, the solar roof was not available for sale in Canada. The delivery was promised either late 2024 or early 2025. Since I can't buy a Volt, I will just wait.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

We took procession of our 2024 Prime one week ago after a 21 month wait. We were told if placing an order today, the delay would be three years ! What choice but to wait. There is no other option (proven quality and performance wise), when it comes to a hybrid. This will be our third Prius but first plug-in and we've learned to trust the Tec. after close to 20 years. And, oh, gas here is nearly $7.00 USD a gallon. Enough said. Got over 51 miles range on the first charge, engine never even started. And, that range happened at only 4c temperatures.

[@midasman714]

Upgrading my 2010 Prius for this. Just got on the waiting list, 6-8 months. By that time, I may be getting the 2025.

[@erictheblue7256]

If Toyota made a full BEV version of the 2024 Prius, I'd buy it in a heart beat.

[@johndonaldson5126]

Great review as always. We have a Honda Clarity since Dec 2017. Comparing the Clarity to the Prius I get over 40 miles of EV range even after 50K miles in the Clarity. We rarely use gas but when we do we get 43mpg. My wish is for a PHEV that gets more EV range than our current Clarity. I'm hoping for 50 to 60 miles of EV range. The MPG isn't a key factor because we drive 80 to 90% in electric mode. Even in California where gas prices are currently in the $4.50/gallon range our gas bill is small. Things that would keep me from buying a new Prius (we owned two Prius before) is the lower profile which makes ingress and egress more challenging. I also much prefer a sitting up position rather than more laid back. Cargo space is certainly a key factor and it alone may keep us away from the Prius. I would have to drive one to have a final opinion about the small LCD panel in front of the driver. Another problem with the Prius is the 3KWh AC charger. The Clarity has a 7.3KWh charger. This makes a big difference in a PHEV. Our family makes more than one round trip per day on average. With a 2 hour charge to 100% in the Clarity we can make a drive, return to the garage for lunch, then take off with a full charge. I'm afraid the Prius would not be fully charged mid day. The Rav4 Prime is a better choice for us but dang that thing is expensive!

[@rickiek]

Great car! Great review!

[@aliendroneservices6621]

0:05 5th-gen Prius is a supercar, and that is what it should be called. Compare it to a Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic. The Atlantic has slightly higher top speed (claimed), but the 5th-gen Prius spanks it in every other way.

[@IamGroot786]

I saw one for the first time the other day and had to do a double take. That exterior design is sick!

[@papagen00]

I'm surprised your 'off-the-grid' house has Wi-Fi and cellular.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I live off-grid, not on the moon ;-)

[@chewie94116]

The Prius Prime needs the sport package (forged wheels with wider ties) option like it had in the past. I had one and love it

[@user-zw3kp7uo6n]

That's a very good review. Toyota's new 5th generation Prius has undergone a major change in appearance, making it even cooler. It looks like a 5 door coupe. Because the new Prius has larger front pillars, the upper part of the instrument panel is deeper than the previous model, making it difficult to see the bonnet and the tip of the body. The rear seats feel a little cramped due to the low seating position. Power performance has been significantly improved compared to the previous model. The hybrid system, now in its fifth generation, has improved driving force in the practical speed range, making it easier to drive and improving fuel efficiency.

[@jackr6896]

What is the rectangular protrusion on the front facsia? license plate holder or radar sensing housing?

[@anthonyc8499]

Toyota kept the weird science project look for way too long for the Prius. Instead of capitalizing on the advantages of the extra power AND efficiency that hybrid technology offered, they went the boring nerd route. That’s why sales fell off a cliff when Model 3 hit the market.

[@naveenthemachine]

And the sales will continue to do so. No prius can compete with a model 3

[@AbolishCommunism]

This can

[@charname-player]

@@naveenthemachinenot if dealer doesn’t mark up the Prius

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

​@@naveenthemachine😂 prius sales are going up and toyota cant keep up with demand right now .this is better than any tesla .you will say anything naveenthemachine to put some form hateful comment .😂

[@OmarZ77]

@@charname-playerthey are marking them up *because* they’re selling well

[@FullSpectrumWarrior]

Living off grid is my goal

[@Mehwhatevr]

this is the prius for me. This will be my next car (or a successor to it depending on when I buy)

[@ewhite1546]

Heyo can I ask what you’re using for your audio equipment? It always comes through good but you’re often in challenging audio environments

[@lionintu]

Not allowed

[@manthony225]

It wouldn't be a Prius if it didn't have a weird instrument panel- said affectionately by Prius lover.

[@joec1774]

Great video overall, and thanks for braving that awful weather. IMO, two counterpoints: -tire width continues to be a curious focus of Alex's, as I think he was a tad hard on handling. It's cool to be compared to a Civic Si or Integra, but that's not actually the comp set. -this vehicle is not not too late, I might suggest it's right on time. Vehicle is selling at MSRP, as many as they are willing to make, and racking up the awards from multiple publications. Toyota is soon to ride the increasing wave of folks who are realizing EVs aren't quite mainstream/primetime appropriate for them just yet, but PHEVs are a great bridge. And the demand for RAV4 Prime and this are helping prove that out.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

With a curb weight of ~3600 lbs, this is the heaviest vehicle in America that I know of on 195s...

[@joec1774]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide and yet it can still circle a skidpad at .82g's (Motor Trend) and stop in a plenty sufficient 123 ft (yet). Totally respect that you'd put wider tires on it, but the reality is for 95% of folks, it has what it needs.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

123 feet isn’t a exactly a great score. My point is that the acceleration doesn’t match the handling or braking capability.

[@joec1774]

How does 123 compare to the last-gen Prius tested? In turn, my point is that you're comparing max abilities and I don't think that really matters for most of the buyers of this vehicle - which does not compete with a Civic Si. The capability that does is exist is sufficient, and for the 5% or so (still seems high) for whom it is not, they can put wider tires on like you would. To the comment you made in your excellent review, I think more buyers would miss the 4 or so MPG that they'd lose vs. the max traction for handling and braking that they'd gain. Personally my biggest issue with the vehicle is the still-questionable ergonomics of instrumentation. Went from old weird to new weird, I guess, and certainly that won't matter to most Prius buyers, as evidenced by the hundreds of thousands already on the road. @@AAutoBuyersGuide

[@rossfinney5135]

I owned a 2019 Chevy Volt for four years before replacing it with a 2023 RAV4 Prime last year. It's been affirming to hear all of the arguments for PHEVs over the past few months, as the shortfalls of the non-Tesla charging network have dampened EV sales. I don't think Alex gave GM enough credit for pioneering this space with the Volt back in 2011. The second generation in 2016 came with significant improvements across the board. All electric performance is one big difference between the Pirus Prime and the Volt. As Alex stated in this review, the Prime's all electric acceleration is way below the performance in hybrid mode. There wasn't much (if any) difference in the Volt's all electric performance. It was responsive and fun to drive on all electric. Over the course of the 43,000 miles I drove my Volt, 27,000 (63%) were all electric. I know this because GM's On-Star system kept track of that metric (sometheing Toyota's system doesn't do). A vast majority of the Volt miles in hybrid mode were on highway roadtrips, when I typically averaged between 38 and 42 MPG. Yes - less than the Prius Prime but still very good. I hated to sell the Volt. It was an excellent fun-to-drive work commute car and also great on road trips with two adults. The RAV has been all I expected it would be. I squeaked in a $7,500 state EV rebate which brought the cost down to what a equivalent RAV4 hybrid model cost. I regularly get 40 + miles of all electric range, and I very much appreciate the 300 hp on the mountain roads I regularly travel for work trips. We now use it as our family car for road trips including my two teenage daughters. As they are apt to do, GM shot themselves in the foot when they abandoned the Voltec powertrain in 2019, but it appears they are planning to bring it back again. If they had continued improving Voltec over the past 5 years, I expect GM PHEV hatchback and crossover models would be very competitive with the Toyoita Prime models, if not better. We'll see what GM can cobble together in the near term for the US market from their Chinese product.

[@FlyingNDriving]

I like the lifetime mpg and current fuel/kWh used since last charge info that the volt infotainment gave you

[@ronpulido743]

Alex, thanks for another great review. Toyota Primes are really both excellent. Now if they were more readily available!

[@hfcarwash]

I have 2023 red Prius prime xse. So much better in almost every way compare to my last one 2018 Prius prime. I did 78km on electricity alone when it is 2-3oC out there. The old prime battery efficiency is heavily affected by weather. I did lose as much as 60% of ev range in a very cold day. But the new one I have observed only lost 20% at most in coldest days.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

Well, we ordered a red Prime in 2022. 21 months later, a Pearl 2024 landed. We didn't want the 19" wheels as they lower the milage. We decided we actually prefer the Pearl paint, it's not white ! And, we had no need for the extra "frills". After the first full charge, we got 82km (ambient temperature 4c). Impressive. As the weather warms we have big expiations. Not going to burn much gas with this rig.

[@tdub25]

Imagine this thing on some black 17in regas with some thick 245/50’s……..sheeeesh

[@markf8256]

My son and I sat in this model generation at an auto show this past January. He and I are 6’ and 6’1” respectively. We both like the exterior look but it comes at a severe cost to the interior. The roofline is very low and thus seating is slung closer to the ground. The odd placement of dash components at the front doors makes for awkward ingress/ egress without banging your head or knees. The center console in this generation takes up too much space. Leg placement for the driver and passenger is cramped. It’s a shame. My son sold his 2011 Prius Plus and recently purchased a 2017 RAV4 Hybrid Limited with very low mileage. The current gen RAV4 is still comfortable. If he were to replace his 2017 he’d go with the current gen RAV4 Hybrid Limited.

[@sailmehome1]

I am impressed …. drive a 2013 Prius V ! However am waiting and will buy a full battery EV next. No more hybrid ICE -Electric as I have very few miles per day on the road. My next vehicle in 2025 will be an Aptera.

[@mike9588]

195’s are what hold’s this back 100%, why Toyota couldn’t just give it 235’s is mind blowing

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It's all about the MPGs...

[@aliendroneservices6621]

2:46 2:51

[@MadMadOne]

195s are fine. Just put some Pilot Sport AS tires

[@Fix5750]

Impossible to find one. Not a single dealership within 200 miles has one on the lot. But they post the in transit ones online which are already spoken for. What is this business model?

[@dominicfong6341]

Wished it would trade the excessive horsepower for even better fuel efficiency.

[@roco9504]

Rocking my 2017 Prius prime. Though I love the design of the new one, the space for sure seemed more cramped. And no light color interior option is an automatic no go for me. Love the solar roof option. But overall, I’m going to attempt to keep mine until I can go full EV

[@bradyb9929]

I totally disagree. This is the best car for 90% of consumers today. If we all did Plug In Hybrids we would be a lot better off.

[@aliendroneservices6621]

The regular Prius would serve most people better. Plug-in is an unnecessary complication.

[@MaGiKRat420]

You lose awd, though.

[@ajmauricio_]

Regular hybrids are better than plug ins

[@dominickvelezjr9171]

Regular hybrids are much better than plug in hybrids. I have a 2023 Lexus UX 250h. I get 43mpg and never have to worry about plugging in.

[@wizettv3531]

@@aliendroneservices6621that’s a cap, I live in Montreal, I drive to work 15 miles, I have the car since 2 months and never put gas in it. It literally takes me 32 seconds to plug the car when I get home. It’s worth it big time, it’s an EV without the range anxiety I’m almost 100% gas

[@raikoh05]

combine the awd and 200hp and now we are going places

[@Tinrs80]

Id also argue that every EV should not have 3second Zero to 60 times. We talk bout how bad other drivers are.. yep give them a fast EV see how its gonna work out.

[@slimshady5938]

Previous gen tyre size was 215 on 17"

[@perrybelcher8880]

Is the battery liquid cooled?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

In the prime it is liquid cooled. Previous generations and the regular Prius are air cooled.

[@kieransteele7223]

I just wish they had kept it a bit bigger. It’s a bit too small 😅 The Niro is about the right size though. I just wish it had awd

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

New prius has more than enough space .thats why toyota has the corolla cross hybrid is available

[@deepshed4524]

I bought new 2024 prius very happy very fun to drive and fast with good.mpg you guys who cannot afford to buy just dream it not hated...

[@lordrefrigeratorintercoole288]

its funny how the new corolla sedan hybrid is more spacious inside. I'm 6,2 and I can sit perfectly in the driver sit and behind with the driver sit set for me.

[@Megatron-sl5us]

As a tall person, I dislike what Toyota did. Shrinking the front headroom down, and the same with the rear. Wish they brought back the Prius V.

[@rightlanehog3151]

🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@MYLIFEISLEGENDARY836-cp1pg]

@megaton-sl5us. Why would toyota have a prius-v when they offer a corolla cross or normal corolla has well. New prius has more than good space

[@user-vx7vi3vq1c]

I’m 6-3 and sat in the Prius. I didn’t feel cramped.

[@jimpease280]

I'm 6' and the driver's accommodations were cramped.

[@Megatron-sl5us]

When I sat inside one, my head barely had room. The seat was lowered all the way down. If I drove and encountered one bump on the road, it will be painful.@@jimpease280

[@kevinpenfold1116]

Honestly I like the whale tail Prius a little more in the appearance department.

[@daves1646]

With the ‘apparent scare’ about EVs and talking up of PHEVs, this has got to be one of the best fits for single/couple/1 child families if you REALLY want enjoyable drive and efficiency. Do the SE, get any state-based plug-in credits and smile, every day.

[@Dannyboy7487]

I think the Honda Clarity plug in hybrid is a better option if you can find it, since it was discontinued in 2021

[@johnnyb6747]

I feel that at this price point you might be better suited getting a Volvo EX30. While being electric and not hybrid, it's starting around $35k with (minimalist) luxury appointments and a much faster 0-60 of 3.4 seconds

[@paulsalvo235]

The Prius prime is a great vehicle, I just want to know what it’s like against the upcoming Civic hybrid and how those two would compare (while it’ll probably be a better comparison against the corolla hybrid for some reason I think the civic hybrid would be the continuation of the departed Insight which did compete against the Prius)

[@skycaptain3344]

I would get a Ford Escape PHEV over the prime. Better seats for a taller person, more upright sitting for passengers, and farrrr more cargo room. I just traded mine in for a Mach E, but I enjoyed driving it. My main annoyance with it was the noisy cabin, but it wasn’t much different than the Prius Prime in that regard.

[@PilotManateeB95]

I really wanted to like the Escape PHEV, but after a test drive we were really unimpressed by the cabin/engine noise and ride. Despite using the same planetary hybrid drivetrain tech as Toyota, it felt nowhere near as refined.. not sure if it was the engine or just software and control implementation. I still love the post-refresh exterior and interior styling. it's also hard to justify the high cost that results from the PHEV system on what still just feels like a 'cheap' platform

[@skycaptain3344]

@@PilotManateeB95frankly it’s extremely hard to justify now, whether it’s this Prius or the Ford Escape. I just traded mine in for a 2023 Mach E Premium. It’s insane to me that for the same amount of money I spent a year ago, I was able to get a vehicle that feels like a luxury suv and so much more refined than the Escape.

[@landshass2849]

I went with a Camry Hybrid because the new Prius wheels are secured with bolts like European cars, Not lug nuts like any other Toyota. It's going to be as difficult as a BMW to rotate the tires.

[@wynchestyr]

No rear wiper :-(

[@davidl4747]

A Prius in name only.

[@wolfeb99]

Canadian dealer is telling me 10-12 month delivery

[@davidp.4727]

We waited over 18 months for ours. Still, it was worth the wait.

[@mikej238]

he's a liar, try 18 to 24

[@wolfeb99]

@@mikej238 obviously you work in Toyota supply chain. Thanks for the inside info.

[@TomLawlor-iq6gm]

Humm............, our Prime landed 21 months (last week), Love iafter order placement. And, at that, we where presented with the wrong colour and, wrong trim level. Seems, if we were to order today, the wait would be three years ! Love it so far, drives like a dream and has given 51 miles electric range at just 4c temperatures.

[@rafaljankowski2807]

With that rain Alex is taking one for the team.

[@chrisstoddard1144]

We owned a 2011 Prius for 8 1/2 years. The things it did best were: - Fuel economy (obviously) - Interior space--mid-size space in a compact size car - Excellent reliability - It was also kind of pretty, in a goofy way. The styling of the new Prime doesn't really work for me. Detractions included the following: - Sluggish acceleration (with much engine drama when pushed) - Numb steering with bad understeer--a TRD rear sway bar helped enormously - Wind noise and road noise, which were fatiguing at speed on trips - Harsh ride with cracking and snapping noises from all the interior hard plastic pieces We currently own a Honda Clarity PHEV for road trips and a Nissan LEAF for around town. I don't think I'd be willing to move into this new Prius Prime with everything so cramped, with the hideous wheel and instrument panel and the noise level. When the time comes, we'll probably replace the LEAF with a Hyundai Kona EV.