2022 Toyota Prius Prime Pros vs Cons

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is one of the best plug-in hybrid cars on the market. High fuel economy and a low-emissions design make it a perfect match for eco-friendly drivers. An easy-driving nature gives car shoppers more reason to like the Prius Prime. Although this hatchback isn’t built to offer exhilarating performance, it does have a rather sporty look. Here are the key reasons why you should consider buying a Prius Prime.

What’s New for 2022?

When checking out the latest Prius Prime lineup, shoppers won’t notice any big differences from last year.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime – The Pros

1. An Efficient, Environmentally Friendly Choice

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is a solid pick for anyone who prefers an eco-friendly lifestyle. This low-emissions hatchback allows drivers to travel without polluting the air. It also puts a big emphasis on fuel efficiency. According to the federal government’s latest estimates, owners should be able to obtain up to a combined 54 mpg on regular unleaded. Activating the Eco mode promotes maximum fuel savings. Drivers can also take advantage of the car’s 25-mile electric driving range.

2. Affordable to Own

An affordable cost of ownership makes the new Prius Prime a great investment. While owners will need to have the car serviced at recommended intervals, they are unlikely to need any major repairs. Mechanics give the Prius Prime a top rating for its long-term reliability. Prices start at less than $29,000, which puts the Prius Prime among the most affordable plug-hybrids in America. Because green vehicles are eligible for a federal tax credit of $4,502, buyers can further reduce the car’s cost.

3. Easy to Drive

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is an easy car to drive. From teenagers to senior citizens, everyone will feel confident while behind the wheel of the Prius Prime. A wide windshield enables drivers to obtain a clear view of the road ahead. Meanwhile, well-tuned steering also helps make this car easier to maneuver in compact spaces. Although the Prius Prime is far from being a sports car, drivers will appreciate its composed handling. A low stance helps the car to stay balanced around curves.

4. Good Comfort on the Road

Toyota designed the Prius Prime to be a comfortable commuter car. However, it’s relaxing enough to handle a day-long road trip. Automotive reviewers applaud the 2022 Prius Prime for comfy front seats. They provide a good blend of support and cushioning, thus helping passengers to unwind. The Prius Prime is also quiet enough to put babies to sleep. Activating the car’s electric driving mode enables you to cruise around town in complete silence.

5. Energetic Exterior Styling

Many younger drivers will appreciate this car’s energetic exterior styling. When checking out the new Prius Prime, most people instantly notice its prominent front fascia. It features a quad-LED headlight arrangement and vertical LED running lights. Mot only does the car’s aerodynamic bumper look sleek, but it also enhances efficiency. A ground-hugging stance gives the hatchback an even sportier character. Signature LED taillights add to the car’s attractiveness. Toyota also gives buyers access to some vibrant exterior colors, including Blue Magnetism and Supersonic Red.

6. Safety Equipment is Plentiful

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime received good crash scores from the federal government. Its NHTSA five-star overall safety rating will give passengers a greater sense of protection. Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 enhances the driver’s ability to avoid danger on the road. This system combines several of today’s most popular safety features, such as pre-collision braking and active lane assistance. To keep pedestrians aware of this quiet-running hybrid’s presence, Toyota equips it with a Vehicle Proximity Notification System.

7. Exciting JBL Premium Sound System

The car’s standard six-speaker stereo gets the job done. However, serious music fans will prefer the available JBL premium audio system. There will be a clear difference in overall sound quality. This system positions a total of 10 speakers throughout the interior, thus promoting a more dramatic sound. Two subwoofers help dramatically improve the unit’s bass response. Drivers can dial up the volume without experiencing any distortion.

8. Intelligent Parking Assist

Many drivers consider parking to be one of their least favorite tasks. Fortunately, the Prius Prime makes life easier by offering Intelligent Parking Assist. Built-in electromagnetic sensors help the system to recognize stationary objects, such as walls and pillars. Audible and visual alerts keep drivers on their toes. The system can also help steer the car into an open parking space. Drivers will simply need to press the gas and brake when needed.

9. Good Warranty Perks

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime provides some good warranty perks. Buyers will receive two years of complimentary maintenance. Routine services, such as oil changes and tire rotations, will be covered during the warranty period. Owners stand to save a lot of money. Another benefit is the car’s two-year roadside assistance plan, which gives drivers access to emergency personnel 24 hours a day. Prius Prime owners will also appreciate Toyota’s 150,000-mile hybrid battery warranty.

10. Hatchback Body Style Frees Up More Cargo Space

A hatchback body style enables the Prius Prime to offer more cargo space than a sedan. This is a key benefit for drivers who often need to haul stuff. According to Toyota, there’s nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear. Whether making a run to the home improvement store or picking up groceries from the supermarket, the Prius Prime’s versatile storage area will come in handy.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime – The Cons

1. Can Experience a Jittery Ride

On most paved surfaces, the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime rides smoothly. However, its ride will quickly turn harsh when encountering battered roads. Many car reviewers describe the Prius Prime as being a bit jittery at times. Passengers will likely feel some vibrations when traveling over concrete expansion joints. Drivers who desire a plushier ride should consider the Lexus UX, which has a more expensive starting MSRP.

2. Optional Infotainment System Has Some Weak Points

Toyota’s standard infotainment system actually has a more user-friendly design. While the upgraded version comes with a larger 11.6 touchscreen, most people find it more difficult to operate. The interface features virtual buttons as opposed to physical controls. Clumsy menus also make the system less enjoyable to use. Sample the standard 7.0-inch touchscreen before opting to upgrade.

3. A Slow Car

When behind the wheel of the new Prius Prime, don’t expect to experience a gutsy performance. Toyota rates it to produce 121 horsepower. This plug-in hybrid is more focused on conserving fuel as opposed to delivering driving excitement. It clocks a rather slow 0-60 mph time of more than 10 seconds. Even when activating the car’s “power” driving mode, it still does not feel quick. Most of the competition offers swifter acceleration.

4. Sloping Roofline Reduces Headroom

The car’s sloping roofline enhances styling. Unfortunately, it also reduces the car’s available headroom. This could be a concern for taller rear passengers.

5. Quirky Instrument Cluster

A cool-looking digital instrument cluster comes equipped on the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime. However, many automotive critics question the placement of the instrument cluster. Toyota decided to place it in the center of the dash. Positioning the cluster behind the steering wheel may have been a better choice.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Toyota Prius Prime vs 2022 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid

The 2022 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid has impressed car reviewers with its sharp styling and excellent passenger room. However, its combined fuel economy rating is not as high. Unlike the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, the Prius Prime provides adaptive cruise control on all trim levels. A lower MSRP gives the Prius Prime another advantage.

2022 Toyota Prius Prime vs. 2022 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid

Among the Prius Prime closest competitors is the new Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid. While Hyundai’s hybrid-powered hatchback is a great choice, it’s not as quiet as the Prius Prime. Smoother driving dynamics give the Prius Prime another edge.

2022 Toyota Prius Prime vs 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

A standard AWD system and a higher ground clearance make the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid more suitable for adventurous lifestyles. However, it can’t match the Prius Prime’s superior fuel economy. A longer electric driving range further helps the Prius Prime to conserve more fuel. Car shoppers will also notice the Subaru Crosstrek’s more expensive sticker price.

Conclusion

The new Toyota Prius Prime is a good pick for folks looking to go green. This plug-in hybrid’s high fuel economy rating will especially appeal to drivers looking to save gas. While the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is not a powerful car, smooth driving dynamics and comfy front seats make it an enjoyable car to drive on an everyday basis. Premium features, such as a powerful JBL sound system and a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensure a more entertaining drive.

While the Prius Prime is more than worthy of a test drive, taller people should be aware of its sloping roofline. Furthermore, performance is not this car’s forte.