2019 Toyota Prius vs 2020 Toyota Prius

2019 Toyota Prius
2019 Toyota Prius
$23,770MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Prius
2020 Toyota Prius
$24,325MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Toyota Prius
$23,770MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Prius
$24,325MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota Prius is 7.3 out of 10, while the 2020 Toyota Prius scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Toyota Prius is the better choice, offering improved technology, enhanced safety features, and a more refined interior.

Overview

MSRP

$23,770

MSRP

$24,325

Average price

$21,471

Average price

$22,785

Listings

212

Listings

176
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10
Pros
  • Excellent value for money
  • Fuel-efficient
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design

2019 Toyota Prius Reviews Summary

Reliable, efficient, affordable, practical, and safe, the 2019 Toyota Prius checks off multiple boxes on a typical car shopper’s list. The latest version is even decent to drive, but the Prius' styling does the car no favors. For 2019, Toyota tries to tone down the design, revises its trim-level strategy, and adds a new electric all-wheel-drive option to the car.

2020 Toyota Prius Reviews Summary

Ever heard of an eponym? It’s a brand or product that is so popular that it’s come to define its respective market. Think of Kleenex for tissues or Band-Aid for medical bandages. For hybrids, the Toyota Prius has ascended to near-eponym status. It was one of the first—and remains one of the most popular—hybrids ever made.

As automakers across the industry are rolling out more hybrid models, the Prius continues to be the standard-bearer of this genre. This is largely due to the fact that the Prius is a dedicated hybrid, rather than a hybrid variant of an existing model.

Throughout the industry, different companies are taking different approaches to alt-fuel vehicles, including full-electric and hydrogen fuel cell powertrains. The Prius endures as the leader in hybrid power due to a focus on fuel efficiency that doesn’t compromise on style, drivability, and versatility. So how does the Prius hold its ground as more players enter the fray? Read on to find out.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid

Engine

1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

EV Battery Capacity

0.7 kWh

EV Battery Capacity

0.7 kWh

MPG City

58

MPG City

58

MPG Highway

53

MPG Highway

53
2019 Toyota Prius
2019 Toyota Prius
$23,770MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Prius
2020 Toyota Prius
$24,325MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Toyota Prius
$23,770MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Toyota Prius
$24,325MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota Prius is 7.3 out of 10, while the 2020 Toyota Prius scores 7.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Toyota Prius is the better choice, offering improved technology, enhanced safety features, and a more refined interior.

Overview
MSRP
$23,770
$24,325
Average price
$21,471
$22,785
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.6
4.9
Expert reviews

7.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Excellent value for money
  • Fuel-efficient
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Fuel-efficient
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Potentially polarizing design
Summary
Reliable, efficient, affordable, practical, and safe, the 2019 Toyota Prius checks off multiple boxes on a typical car shopper’s list. The latest version is even decent to drive, but the Prius' styling does the car no favors. For 2019, Toyota tries to tone down the design, revises its trim-level strategy, and adds a new electric all-wheel-drive option to the car.

Ever heard of an eponym? It’s a brand or product that is so popular that it’s come to define its respective market. Think of Kleenex for tissues or Band-Aid for medical bandages. For hybrids, the Toyota Prius has ascended to near-eponym status. It was one of the first—and remains one of the most popular—hybrids ever made.

As automakers across the industry are rolling out more hybrid models, the Prius continues to be the standard-bearer of this genre. This is largely due to the fact that the Prius is a dedicated hybrid, rather than a hybrid variant of an existing model.

Throughout the industry, different companies are taking different approaches to alt-fuel vehicles, including full-electric and hydrogen fuel cell powertrains. The Prius endures as the leader in hybrid power due to a focus on fuel efficiency that doesn’t compromise on style, drivability, and versatility. So how does the Prius hold its ground as more players enter the fray? Read on to find out.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid
1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
EV Battery Capacity
0.7 kWh
0.7 kWh
MPG City
58
58
MPG Highway
53
53
Look and feel
2019 Toyota Prius
5/10
2020 Toyota Prius
7/10

The 2019 Toyota Prius was not known for its looks. Despite its unconventional design, it offered a practical solution for daily driving. The 2019 model introduced new trim levels and an optional all-wheel-drive system, enhancing its appeal. The interior featured centralized controls and a unique design, though the gloss black trim attracted dust. The XLE AWD-e test car came with several upgrades, including a head-up display and aluminum wheels, making it a well-equipped option.

The 2020 Toyota Prius retained its familiar shape, optimized for aerodynamics. The design aimed to make it look more like a sedan while maintaining its hatchback functionality. The futuristic style remained contemporary, and the cabin continued to feature a central location for instrumentation. The 2020 model offered various trim levels, each with distinct features, from the entry-level L Eco to the range-topping Limited. The XLE trim added luxury touches like synthetic leather upholstery and wireless device charging, while the 2020 Edition celebrated the model's 20th anniversary with unique accents.

Performance
2019 Toyota Prius
9/10
2020 Toyota Prius
5/10

The 2019 Toyota Prius combined a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, producing 121 horsepower. The optional AWD-e system added a rear electric motor, providing extra traction at low speeds. The AWD-e system slightly reduced fuel economy, with the standard FWD model achieving 52 mpg combined, while the AWD-e managed 50 mpg. The Prius offered a smooth ride and decent handling, with different driving modes to suit various needs. The CVT transmission and regenerative braking system contributed to its efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

The 2020 Toyota Prius also featured a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. The AWD-e variant used a second electric motor for the rear wheels, operating up to 43 mph. The Prius offered smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and conventional power. It had three drive modes: EV, Eco, and Power, each catering to different driving preferences. The unique shifter design and Engine Braking mode added to its functionality. The Prius provided engaging handling and a comfortable ride, making it suitable for commuting.

Form and function
2019 Toyota Prius
8/10
2020 Toyota Prius
7/10

The 2019 Toyota Prius offered comfortable seating for four adults, with manual height adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed decent space, though air conditioning vents were absent. The trunk provided up to 27.4 cubic feet of space, expandable to 65.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The AWD-e variant had slightly less cargo space. The Prius's hatchback design made it a practical choice for carrying luggage and other items.

The 2020 Toyota Prius made efficient use of its space, with deep door pockets and a large tray area between the front seats. The front seats were spacious and comfortable, with good visibility for the driver. The rear seats offered ample space, though taller passengers needed to be cautious. The Prius provided 50.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 24.6 to 27.4 cubic feet with the seats up, depending on the trim. The hatchback design facilitated easy loading of bags and large items, enhancing its versatility.

Technology
2019 Toyota Prius
5/10
2020 Toyota Prius
8/10

The 2019 Toyota Prius Limited trim featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen with navigation, the Entune App Suite, and a premium JBL sound system. The XLE AWD-e test car had a standard 6.1-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and a CD player. The instrumentation was housed in a horizontal strip below the windshield, with some displays appearing outdated. The Advanced Technology Package included a head-up display and adaptive headlights. However, the infotainment system lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, limiting its modern connectivity options.

The 2020 Toyota Prius came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly menu layout and standard features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The Limited trim upgraded to an 11.6-inch screen with a customizable layout, though it lacked Android Auto. The Prius also offered satellite radio, HD Radio, a head-up display, and a 10-speaker JBL audio system. The top-center instrument panel provided hybrid drivetrain status and other critical readouts, with menus accessible via the steering wheel.

Safety
2019 Toyota Prius
7/10
2020 Toyota Prius
9/10

The 2019 Toyota Prius Limited trim included Safety Connect services, offering features like automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Standard safety features across all trims included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams. The LE trim added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The Prius received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2020 Toyota Prius came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and active park assist. The lane-tracing assist helped center the vehicle in its lane. The Prius earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it fell short of the highest rating due to average scores in certain tests.

Cost Effectiveness
2019 Toyota Prius
10/10
2020 Toyota Prius
9/10
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