1. Introduction
a. Briefly introduce the electric vehicle you’re reviewing
The Toyota Prius is a mid-size car with a hybrid drivetrain, which combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
b. Explain the context or significance of the vehicle in the EV market
The Toyota Prius earned the Car of the Year Japan Award in 1997 and once again in 2009. Consumer Reports also acknowledged the Toyota hybrid as “Best Value” for two consecutive years in December 2013.
These awards are just a few that prove the Prius’ strong presence in the new energy vehicle industry.
2. New Features in 2023
The 2023 Toyota Prius demonstrates the Japanese automaker’s iconic nameplate reinvention. It now offers a new appearance inside and out and more power than you would expect from a 50-mpg vehicle.
It will use the company’s TNGA-C platform, leading to a wider stance and lower driving position.
The car’s front-to-back styling of the hybrid model is now more striking. As for the power, the new model now delivers up to 196 horsepower, the highest from a Prius to date.
Toyota estimates that the new 194hp FWD Prius will have a record of up to 57 mpg combined. Meanwhile, the AWD models have 196hp. Apart from that, the Prius also offers a 220hp variant.
3. Design and Aesthetics:
a. Exterior design and style
The 2023 Toyota Prius features a low roofline, low seating position, and wide stance.
It now has smooth curves and sleek details, highlighting its modern appeal. Its front end has slim LED headlights, while the rear end has a light bar between the taillights.
It also features a fixed glass roof, brightening the car’s interior. It also boasts 19-inch alloy wheels.
The 2023 Prius’ available colors are as follows:
- Cutting Edge
- Guardian Gray
- Midnight Black Metallic
- Reservoir Blue
- Supersonic Red
- Wind Chill Pearl
b. Interior design and materials
The interior of the new Prius has been completely redesigned, with larger screens and a more enticing selection of options, including optional heated back seats. It also has a more conventional cockpit.
The 2023 Toyota Prius now has a gauge cluster behind the steering wheel. Its roofline dropped by 2.0 inches, with lower front seats.
The Limited Premium Package offers the following interior features:
- Digital Key capability
- Panoramic View Monitor
- Top-mount Multi-Information Display
- JBL® Premium Audio System
c. Build quality and fit and finish
The 2023 Toyota Prius has a solid build quality that is worthy of the Toyota badge. The automaker built the model with longevity in mind, using extremely high-quality materials. In fact, even the plastic quality of the interior is very durable.
Base models offer faux leather steering wheels. Meanwhile, XLE or higher variants feature heated front seats, rear heated seats, and more cup holders for rear passengers.
d. Ergonomics and comfort
The Prius offers more than enough space for all five occupants. It offers a class-leading front legroom of 43.2 inches, surpassing even the Toyota Camry. Meanwhile, its rear legroom measures 34.8 inches and its rear headroom is 36.4, which makes the second row tight.
Nonetheless, it supports 60/40 rear bench seats for added comfort.
e. Cargo space and storage
The car’s trunk space is fairly impressive for the class. Its cubby storage also merits extra acknowledgment owing to a visionary new slot in its center console. It also offers a power liftgate to expand cargo bay access.
4. Performance and Driving Dynamics:
a. Powertrain and battery specifications
| Specs | LE | XLE | Limited |
| Engine Type | Gas/Electric I-4 | Gas/Electric I-4 | Gas/Electric I-4 |
| Electric Motor | Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor | Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor | Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor |
| Horsepower | 194 | 194 | 194 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 139 | 139 | 139 |
| Transmission | CVT w/OD | CVT w/OD | CVT w/OD |
| Battery | 222V Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) | 222V Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) | 222V Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) |
b. Acceleration and top speed
Prius’ engine is powerful enough to go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds on selected trims.
c. Handling and ride quality
The new Prius boasts dynamic handling with its low center of gravity. It supports agile handling at each turn, offering a comfortable riding quality.
d. Braking performance
The 2023 Prius enables stability during acceleration and braking, which offers a very confident drive.
e. Regenerative braking
The Prius’ regenerative braking system contributes to better fuel economy. Its Electronically Controlled Brake System (ECB) utilizes electric motor generators to recoup energy during braking.
5. Range, Charging, and Efficiency:
a. EPA-estimated range and real-world range
The 2023 Toyota Prius has an EPA-estimated combined 57 mpg rating: 57 mpg city and 56 mpg highway. Meanwhile, its gasoline range is 644 miles.
Notably, it features a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with up to 196 hp.
b. Charging options and infrastructure
Charging times for various charging levels (Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging)
The Toyota Prius utilizes the Type 2 charging standard, frequently used at home or in public slow and fast AC ports. The Prius lacks the ability for quick charging, like the majority of PHEVs.
Depending on the network and the type of charge unit, it can charge quickly or slowly from public points. A Type 2-to-Type 2 cable is typically needed for rapid charging, while a 3-pin-to-Type 2 cable is needed for slow charging. Both of these cables are included with the car.
Below is the Prius’ approximate time of charging for a 100% charge (empty to full):
| Charging Time | Range per hour | |
| 22 kW | 3 hours | 9 mph |
| 7 kW | 3 hours | 9 mph |
| 3.6 kW | 3 hours | 9 mph |
d. Energy consumption and efficiency
| Specs | LE | XLE | Limited |
| Efficiency (MPG) | 57 City / 56 Hwy | 52 City / 52 Hwy | 52 City / 52 Hwy |
6. Infotainment and Connectivity:
a. Dashboard and instrument cluster
Base and higher trims offer bigger screens than the old model. LE and XLE trims come standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen. On the other hand, Limited gets a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen. It is also available as optional equipment for the XLE.
b. Infotainment system and features
The 2023 Toyota Prius’ infotainment system offers “Hey Toyota” voice control. Apart from that, the LE and XLE trims offer the following features:
- 6-speaker audio system
- Wireless Android Auto™15 & Apple CarPlay®10 compatible
- SiriusXM®12 3-month Platinum Plan trial13 subscription
Meanwhile, the Limited trim has the following upgrade:
- 12.3-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia
- 8-speaker JBL®9 Premium Audio including subwoofer and amplifier
Nonetheless, it has the same Wireless Android Auto™15 & Apple CarPlay®10 and SiriusXM®12 3-month Platinum Plan trial13 subscription features.
c. Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
The larger screen is standardly equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
e. Over-the-air software updates
The 2023 Toyota Prius supports over-the-air (OTA) software updates.
7. Safety and Driver Assistance:
a. Driver assistance and safety systems (ADAS)
The 2023 Toyota Prius offers the following ADAS features:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Proactive Driving Assist
It also offers the following key safety features as standard:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard automatic high-beams
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Safety Connect®”: Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Enhanced Roadside Assistance18, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Locator
8. Reliability, Maintenance and Warranty:
a. Reliability and build quality concerns
JD Power scored the 2023 Prius 25 out of 100 for average reliability. Meanwhile, Consumer Reports also predicts the model to be more reliable than its rivals.
Furthermore, there are no records of recalls yet for the 2023 Prius.
b. Maintenance and service requirements
Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles.
Basic service for every 5,000 miles includes:
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
- Inspect wiper blades
- Rotate tires
- Visually inspect brake
Intermediate service for every 15,000 miles includes:
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels1
- Inspect wiper blades
- Rotate tires
- Visually inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs
Major service for every 30 miles includes:
- Check installation of driver’s floor mat
- Inspect and adjust all fluid levels
- Inspect wiper blades
- Replace cabin air filter
- Replace engine air filter
- Replace engine oil and oil filter
- Rotate tires
c. Warranty coverage and options
Toyota Prius offers an above-average warranty coverage when it comes to maintenance. Also, its warranty coverage for components is an industry-standard. Refer to the following:
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles
- Roadside Assistance for 3 Years/Unlimited Miles
You can access the Prius’ Warranty and Maintenance guide here.
d. Insurance costs and considerations
2023 Toyota Prius Insurance Cost by Trim Level
| Toyota Prius Trim Level | Annual Policy | Per Month |
| LE | $1,548 | $129 |
| LE AWD | $1,584 | $132 |
| XLE | $1,630 | $136 |
e. Resale value and depreciation
Value breakdown for 2023 Toyota Prius Limited 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) with no options
| Year | Car Value | Depreciation |
| 2024 | $31,983 | -$7,441 |
| 2025 | $30,005 | -$1,978 |
| 2026 | $28,132 | -$1,873 |
| 2027 | $25,937 | -$2,195 |
| 2028 | $23,857 | -$2,080 |
| Total Depreciation Over five years | – | -$15,567 |
9. Comparison to Competitors:
a. Compare the reviewed EV to its key competitors in terms of design, performance, range, and pricing
| Specs | 2023 Toyota Prius LE | 2023 Kia Niro LX FWD |
| Vehicle Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Seats | 5 Person | 5 Person |
| Engine Type | Gas/Electric I-4 | Gas/Electric I-4 |
| Electric Motor | Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor | Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor |
| Horsepower | 194 | 139 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 139 | c |
| Transmission | CVT w/OD | Auto-Shift Manual w/OD |
| Battery | 13.6 kWh Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) | 11.1-kWh Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery |
| Price | $28,545* | $26,490* |
b. Discuss the unique selling points and drawbacks of the reviewed EV compared to its competitors
The 2023 Toyota Prius offers a larger battery pack of 13.6 kWh than Kia Niro’s 11.1-kWh. Apart from that, it also has a higher horsepower of 194 than the South Korean rival 139 hp.
However, Toyota Prius’ torque (139) is lower than Kia Niro’s 195 capacity. It is also more expensive at $28,545 for the base model, compared to Kia Niro’s $26,490.
10. Variants and Pricing:
a. List the available trim levels, options, and pricing
| Trim | LE | XLE | Limited |
| Price | $28,545* | $31,990* | $35,560* |
b. Discuss the value proposition and whether the vehicle is worth the investment
The 2023 Toyota Prius may not be worth the investment, as many battery-powered electric models nowadays offer the same technologies and features. Most notably, all-electric models are a more sustainable option, enabling drivers to save money from gas.
11. Conclusion:
a. Summarize your overall impressions of the electric vehicle
The 2023 Toyota Prius is undoubtedly a striking hybrid car both inside and out. It has new styling, improved performance, and excellent fuel efficiency.
b. Provide a recommendation for potential buyers
You may want to explore more options with all-electric vehicle models. EVs offer a cleaner drive and allow you to save money on gas. The latest EV models also offer the most innovative technologies that you may want for your first or next car.
