Toyota Prius LE AWD-e vs Ford Focus ST

Ford Focus ST
Ford Focus ST
$25,170MSRP
Shop Now
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
$27,685MSRP
Shop Now
Ford Focus ST
$25,170MSRP
Shop Now
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
$27,685MSRP
Shop Now

Overview

Years produced

2013-2018

Years produced

2019-2022

MSRP

$25,170

MSRP

$27,685

Average price

$12,828

Average price

$21,809

Listings

395

Listings

74

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 252 hp I4

Engine

1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

252 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

EV Battery Capacity

EV Battery Capacity

1.3 kWh

MPG City

22

MPG City

51

MPG Highway

30

MPG Highway

47
Ford Focus ST
Ford Focus ST
$25,170MSRP
Shop Now
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
$27,685MSRP
Shop Now
Ford Focus ST
$25,170MSRP
Shop Now
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
$27,685MSRP
Shop Now

Overview

Years produced
2013-2018
2019-2022
MSRP
$25,170
$27,685
Average price
$12,828
$21,809
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.7

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 252 hp I4
1.8L 121 hp I4 Hybrid
Drive Train
FWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
252 hp @ 5500 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
1.3 kWh
MPG City
22
51
MPG Highway
30
47
Introduction

The Ford Focus ST marked Ford's entry into the hot hatch segment, transforming the otherwise modest Focus five-door into a performance-oriented vehicle. Making its debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, it later hit the U.S. market with the 2013 model year. The Focus ST was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, sparking interest and achieving over 2,000 preorders by June 2012. Renowned for its impressive speed, Ford claimed the Focus ST could accelerate to 60 miles per hour in just 6.1 seconds. Despite undergoing a makeover for 2015, this high-performance hatchback bid farewell to the production line in 2018.

In contrast, the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e embodies evolution in hybrid technology, transitioning from a distinctive wedge-shaped design to a more conventional hatchback appearance. In 2019, a refreshed iteration of the current Prius generation was launched, introducing an optional all-wheel drive system—itself a clever application of a secondary electric motor on the rear axle. Positioned as a mid-level trim, the Prius LE AWD-e offers practicality and efficiency, catering to those preferring understated styling and reliable, eco-friendly driving dynamics.

Key Features
Ford Focus ST
  • Standard turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Electronic differential control
  • Sync 3 hands-free technology (2015-2018)
  • Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control
Toyota Prius LE AWD-e
  • Four-cylinder engine
  • Hybrid powertrain
  • Seating for five
  • Hatchback
Performance

The Ford Focus ST boasts a turbocharged powertrain delivering an assertive 252 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e’s hybrid setup yields a more modest output of 121 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to weight, the Focus ST has a curb weight of approximately 3,223 pounds, closely matched by the Prius LE AWD-e’s 3,210 pounds. These specifications highlight the differing performance orientations between the two vehicles without drawing conclusions.

Powertrain

Under the hood of the Ford Focus ST, a 252 hp turbocharged EcoBoost 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine is partnered with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive, enabling it to achieve 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. This sporty orientation contrasts with the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, supplemented by two electric motors. It employs a continuously variable automatic transmission and an innovative all-wheel drive system, reaching 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds.

Dimensions

Evaluating their dimensions, the Ford Focus ST measures 171.7 inches in length with a wheelbase of 104.3 inches. Meanwhile, the Toyota Prius LE AWD-e is longer at 180 inches, sporting a 106.3-inch wheelbase. In terms of width, the Focus ST is marginally broader at 71.8 inches, while the Prius LE AWD-e measures 69.3 inches. Heights stand at 58.4 inches for the Focus ST and 58.1 inches for the Prius. These dimensions underscore unique external profiles without delving into cabin implications.

Summary
The Ford Focus ST and Toyota Prius LE AWD-e present distinct personalities within the automotive sphere, with each playing to its strengths. The Focus ST is tailored to performance enthusiasts, combining sporty metrics with features designed for driving exhilaration. Meanwhile, the Prius LE AWD-e serves those seeking efficient and eco-conscious transportation, delivering hybrid benefits that cater to practical commuting needs. By contrasting power with efficiency, the comparison illustrates each vehicle's approach to satisfying diverse driver expectations.
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