Since 1997 the Toyota Prius has provided drivers with a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to a standard gas engine. The Prius Prime was released in the U.S. in 2017 and offers even more variety to those who are concerned with fuel efficiency and emissions. The 2021 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime both had significant updates this year, and they also have some unique aspects that make them different. 
2021 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime
The main difference between the Prius and the Prius Prime is that the Prius is a hybrid and the Prius Prime is a hybrid plug-in. The Prius and the Prius Prime both have 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines and seat five passengers. Both models offer excellent gas mileage, safety features, and technology upgrades, but there are several factors that distinguish one from the other.
Trims and Price
The 2021 Prius comes in seven trims starting with the L Eco at $24,525 MSRP, up to the Limited trim which starts at $32,650 MSRP. Additionally, new for 2021 is the 2020 Edition trim which has a starting price of $29,875 MSRP.
The 2021 Prius Prime only comes in three trims, the LE starting at $28,220 MSRP, the XLE which starts at $30,000 MSRP, and the Limited at $34,000 MSRP.
Fuel Efficiency
Both vehicles score highly for being eco-friendly and fuel-efficient, but the Prius will get you a few more miles per gallon between city and highway driving. Comparing the base models of each line, the Prius L Eco is expected to average 56 combined MPG, while the Prius Prime LE comes in slightly lower at an estimated 54 combined MPG.
The difference is that if you only drive short distances using the Prius Prime as an entirely electric vehicle, you can expect to get up to 133 MPGe.
Interior Space
Another difference between the 2021 Prius and the Prius Prime is the room in the trunk. The basic trim of the Prius can carry 24.4 cubic feet of cargo in the back. Plus, with the seats folded down a substantial 50.7 cubic feet of space is made available. The larger battery of the Prius Prime however brings its capacity down to 19.8 cubic feet of cargo space.
Passengers also get a bit more room in the Prius with an average of 93.1 cubic feet per passenger compared to 91.5 cubic feet per passenger in the Prius Prime.
Functional Differences
The deciding factor of which vehicle is right for you will ultimately depend on your driving habits. The 2021 models of both cars include top-of-the-line driver assistance, standard safety features, and advanced technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the function of each will determine which one suits you best.
The Prius is a better choice for driving long distances because it uses the electric motor in tandem with the gas engine to save fuel. The Prius Prime on the other hand is the perfect choice for someone who normally drives short distances because the electric motor is able to take you up to 25 miles before using any gas.
Both the Prius and the Prius Prime offer the reliability of a Toyota and the fuel efficiency of a hybrid engine. The 2021 models have been upgraded to include the latest safety features and infotainment systems. Aside from their positive similarities, the differences between the two become clear when you take into consideration your driving habits and needs. For more information on the Prius and Prius Prime, contact Cloninger Toyota today.
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