2018 Toyota Prius Prime in Vista, CA - $18,995

“Prime” means best or top, and so it was a natural to use it for the most technologically advanced, best-equipped Toyota Prius in the model’s nearly two-decade global history. The 2017 Prius Prime represents the pinnacle of efficiency and technology for the new- generation Prius, with a new dual-motor hybrid powertrain with the highest EPA Fuel Economy rating in the industry among all vehicles. That also represents a substantial 26-percent enhancement over its predecessor model, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, the result of greater battery capacity and an improved hybrid system.

The 2017 Prius Prime combines an electrifying design with an even more capable electric powertrain than the previous-generation model. In fact, the Prius Prime will have class-leading total drive range with an EPA-estimated 640 miles! And, Prius Prime will offer a EPA-estimated range of up to 25 miles up to 84 mph in EV mode, with the goal in mind of meeting the daily commuter distance of over half of U.S. drivers.

Available in Plus, Premium and Advanced trim levels, power for the Prius Prime is generated by an Atkinson cycle 2ZR-FXE 1.8L four-cylinder gasoline engine, 600 volt electric Motor Generator and an 8.8 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission.

As thrifty with fuel as the Prius Prime may be, in EV mode it drives with unexpected verve and excitement. Exclusive suspension tuning gives the Prime an enhanced planted stance through curves. All Prius models are built around Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) and feature double-wishbone independent rear suspension. The trailing-arm design allows increased luggage space with the rear seatbacks in use.

The strength of the TNGA platform greatly contributes to the high level of handling responsiveness, steering feel and ride quality in the Prius Prime. Hot-stamped and high tensile steels, which allow for intricate forms that are both lightweight and strong, are used extensively throughout the body. Aluminum components, including the hood and brake calipers, help keep vehicle weight in check. Innovative fastening methods, including laser screw welding and advanced adhesives, contribute to structural strength. Additional weight savings come from a Toyota-made lightweight carbon-fiber rear hatch, which also makes opening and closing almost effortless.

Inside the passenger cabin, the Prius Prime looks and feels far from frugal. Its four-seat cabin layout, with center console in both front and back, feels far more premium. The rear-seat console offers generous storage capacity. Practicality is a Prius Prime strong suit, with standard 60/40 folding rear seatbacks unaffected by the larger battery. The Prius Prime coddles the driver and passengers with standard heated front seats, an automatic climate control system, and available SofTex® synthetic leather trimmed seats. The climate control system runs very quietly thanks to an electric compressor. Toyota calls the system “smart-flow,” because it focuses airflow only to areas where occupants are seated in order to help maximize fuel economy and comfort.

The centrally mounted gauge panel, a Prius hallmark since the model’s inception, appears to float above the dashboard. The panel features dual 4.2-inch full-color multi-information displays, and the driver can change their content by using steering wheel controls. Customizable screens include Energy Monitor, Hybrid System and Climate Control Indicator, along with a suite of “Eco” features: Eco Score, Eco Savings Record, Drive Monitor, and Eco Diary. Other screens provide displays for driver support systems, audio system content, and navigation system content. Prius Prime adds even more premium touches and exclusive tech features compared to the all-new Prius liftback, including its available vertically oriented 11.6-inch HD multimedia screen and an available full color head-up display.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 106.3; overall length: 182.9; width: 69.3; height: 57.9
All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 1.8L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder gasoline – 95 hp at 5200 rpm and 105 lbs-ft of torque at 3600 rpm, Permanent Magnet AC Synchronous Motor – 600 volts, and Lithium-ion battery pack – 8.8 kWh.
Transmission: continuously variable automatic transmission
EPA Fuel Economy: 55 city/53 hwy. (133 MPGe in EV mode)
Total Driving Range: 25 miles (EV mode); 640 miles total
Cargo capacity: 19.8 cubic feet

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, driver’s knee airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, Smart Stop Technology, traction control, enhanced vehicle stability control, hill start assist control, engine immobilizer, side-impact door beams, LED daytime running lights, Bluetooth hands free phone system, Smart Key System with push button engine start, navigation system, vehicle proximity notification system, pre-collision system with pedestrian protection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, tire repair system and tire pressure monitor system. Premium adds automatic LED projector headlights and backup camera display. Advanced adds LED fog lights, rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers, color head-up display, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and intelligent clearance sonar with intelligent parking assist.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 3-year/unlimited 24-hour

Pricing
The basic Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime hatchback starts from $27,100 for Plus, $28,800 for Premium, and $33,000 for Advanced. Destination charges add $865.