2021 Toyota Corolla vs 2020 Toyota Prius

The 2020 Toyota Prius maintained its iconic aerodynamic shape, reminiscent of a jellybean, which contributed to its optimal drag coefficient. Over the years, Toyota subtly evolved the Prius's design to give it a more sedan-like appearance while retaining its hatchback functionality. The Prius's futuristic style remained contemporary, with its most revolutionary design element being the cabin's central instrumentation and gauges. The Prius offered various trims, starting with the L Eco, which included features like 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims like the XLE and Limited added more luxurious features, such as synthetic leather upholstery and a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its 12th-generation form, was considered one of the most attractive Corollas in recent history. The SE and XSE trims enhanced its sporty appeal with design elements like sport-design bumpers and 18-inch aluminum wheels. However, some design aspects, such as the hood shut line and over-styled rear bumper, were seen as less appealing. The Corolla offered a range of trims, including the sporty SE and XSE, which featured a more powerful engine and sportier styling. The interior of the XSE trim was praised for its use of high-quality materials and a clean, minimalist design, although it lacked practical storage solutions.

The 2020 Toyota Prius was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. It offered both front-wheel drive and an all-wheel-drive variant, the Prius AWD-e, which used a second electric motor for the rear wheels. The Prius provided smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and conventional power. It featured three drive modes—EV, Eco, and Power—each offering different performance characteristics. The unique shifter design and Engine Braking mode added to its distinct driving experience. The Prius's low center of gravity contributed to its engaging handling, making it ideal for efficient commuting.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE trims were equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, with its mechanical first gear, provided a more engaging driving experience, while the optional six-speed manual gearbox added to the sporty appeal. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture, the Corolla offered a low center of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. The SE and XSE trims featured 18-inch aluminum wheels and sportier tires, enhancing their handling capabilities. The Corolla's performance was competent, offering a balance of power and efficiency, with an EPA rating of 34 mpg in combined driving.

The 2020 Toyota Prius made efficient use of its space, with deep door pockets and a large tray area between the front seats for storage. The front seats provided ample headroom and legroom, while the rear seats offered good space, though taller passengers needed to be cautious when entering. The Prius excelled in cargo space, offering 50.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and up to 27.4 cubic feet with the seats up, making it one of the most spacious hybrids available. Its hatchback design facilitated easy loading of large items.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE trim offered upgrades like SofTex leatherette seats with fabric inserts and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front seats provided comfort and good visibility, while the rear seats offered support but limited headroom and legroom. The Corolla's trunk provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which was average for its class. The lack of a handle on the inside of the trunk lid was a minor inconvenience.

The 2020 Toyota Prius came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, 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 a JBL premium audio system and a head-up display. The top-center instrument panel was a defining feature, providing critical readouts and hybrid drivetrain status.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla added Android Auto as standard, joining Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SE and XSE trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with the XSE offering additional connectivity features like Remote Connect. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation. The JBL sound system, while offering depth, lacked clarity.

The 2020 Toyota Prius was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and lane-tracing assist. The Prius earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS, though it fell short of the highest rating due to average scores in certain tests.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla also featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with additional rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The safety systems performed well, though adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance had minor issues. The 2020 Corolla received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, with the 2021 model awaiting re-testing due to new airbags.