2021 Toyota Prius vs 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, despite its modern and somewhat aggressive design, was not universally praised for its aesthetics. However, when equipped with SE or XSE trim and the Celestite paint color, it presented a more appealing look. The interior of the Corolla XSE showed significant improvements in quality, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the previously cheap plastics. Yet, the transmission shifter reminded drivers of its economy car status, lacking the solid feel found in some competitors. The Corolla's pricing started at $19,600, with the XSE trim reaching up to $28,800.

The 2021 Toyota Prius retained its distinctive boomerang-shaped design, a hallmark since its second generation. While this design was no longer necessary for aerodynamic efficiency, it remained part of the Prius's identity. The interior was unconventional, with a central dashboard display and unique transmission controls. The Prius offered various trims, including an AWD option, and was priced between $24,525 and $32,650. Despite its quirky design, the Prius provided the utility of a hatchback, with ample cargo space.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla offered a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with 139 horsepower for its L, LE, and XLE trims, paired with a CVT. The SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful 169-hp, 2.0-liter engine and a more sophisticated CVT, with an optional 6-speed manual gearbox for the SE. The Corolla XSE's driving dynamics were well-tuned, providing a smooth ride with its independent rear suspension. However, the lack of a turbocharger limited its acceleration capabilities. The Corolla XSE was EPA-rated at 31 mpg city, 38 highway, and 34 combined, though real-world testing showed slightly lower efficiency.

The 2021 Toyota Prius focused on fuel efficiency, with the L Eco version achieving 56 mpg combined. Other FWD models were rated at 52 mpg, while AWD-e versions managed 49 mpg. The Prius combined a 1.8-liter engine with a 53-kilowatt electric motor, producing 121 horsepower. It offered various driving modes to enhance efficiency, though the Power mode added noise rather than speed. The Prius handled well on curvy roads, thanks to its TNGA platform, but its performance was more about maximizing fuel economy than delivering thrills.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, though compact, was spacious enough for a family of four. However, the lack of rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports, along with the low seating position, were drawbacks. The trunk offered 13.1 cubic feet of space, sufficient for several bags. The interior lacked storage options, and the rear seats were uncomfortable for taller passengers due to limited headroom.

The 2021 Toyota Prius surprised with its interior space, comfortably seating five. The SofTex upholstery, while soft, tended to trap sweat. The rear seats provided adequate room, but lacked air-conditioning vents. Cargo space varied by trim, offering between 24.6 and 27.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and up to 50.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla featured the Entune 3.0 infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay but not Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen and familiar controls. Higher trims offered additional features like a JBL premium sound system and advanced voice recognition. The Corolla's infotainment system included several free trial subscriptions for various services.

The 2021 Toyota Prius came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering standard features like Bluetooth, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim added a JBL sound system and an 11.6-inch touchscreen, though it lacked Android Auto. The infotainment system's sound quality was poor, and road noise often overwhelmed it.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. The system generally performed well, though the lane-departure warning was irritating. The Corolla received a 5-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Prius also featured TSS 2.0, with similar safety systems. The lane-keeping and lane-centering systems added artificiality to the steering. Safety Connect services were standard, offering features like automatic collision notification. The Prius had not been rated by the NHTSA, but the IIHS gave it favorable marks.