2019 Toyota Prius vs 2020 Toyota Prius

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.