The Toyota Prius Prime, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, electric range, and practicality. Choosing the right model year can significantly impact your ownership experience, considering factors like technological advancements, reliability improvements, and the emergence of potential issues. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Prius Prime, helping you make an informed decision.
Toyota Prius Prime: Model Year Comparison
| Model Year | Key Features & Changes | Potential Issues & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | First generation; 11.3 kWh battery; 25 miles EV range; Toyota Safety Sense P | Infotainment system lag; Potential for early battery degradation in extreme climates; Some reported issues with charging cable malfunction. |
| 2018 | Minor software updates; Enhanced Toyota Safety Sense P features | Same as 2017; Reports of "phantom braking" with TSS-P; Some reports of HVAC system issues. |
| 2019 | Minor cosmetic updates; Apple CarPlay integration added | Same as 2018, but Apple CarPlay addresses some infotainment concerns; Still some HVAC complaints. |
| 2020 | Android Auto integration added; Updated interior trim | Same as 2019, but Android Auto addresses more infotainment concerns; Reports of increased battery degradation continue. |
| 2021 | No major changes | Same as 2020; Limited availability due to production constraints; High used prices. |
| 2022 | Final year of first generation; No significant updates | Same as 2021; Potential for finding well-maintained, lower-mileage examples from this final year. |
| 2023 | All-new second generation; 13.6 kWh battery; Increased EV range (44 miles); More powerful motor; Redesigned interior and exterior; Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 | New model teething issues are possible, but generally well-regarded so far; Higher price point; Long wait times for new orders. |
| 2024 | No major changes expected; Carryover from 2023 | Likely the most reliable second-generation option; Higher price point; Availability may still be limited. |
Detailed Explanations
2017: The inaugural year of the Prius Prime offered groundbreaking plug-in hybrid technology. It featured an 11.3 kWh battery providing approximately 25 miles of all-electric range. It also came standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. However, the infotainment system was known to be slow and clunky. Early adopters also reported instances of battery degradation, especially in regions with extreme temperatures, and some charging cable malfunctions.
2018: This model year saw minor software updates aimed at improving the infotainment system and enhancing the functionality of Toyota Safety Sense P. While these updates were welcome, the core technology remained largely unchanged. Unfortunately, some owners reported instances of "phantom braking," where the TSS-P system would activate the brakes unnecessarily. There were also some reports of issues with the HVAC system's performance.
2019: The biggest addition for the 2019 model year was the inclusion of Apple CarPlay integration. This addressed a significant complaint about the infotainment system and provided a more user-friendly experience for iPhone users. Cosmetically, there were some minor updates to the exterior styling. While the Apple CarPlay integration was a major improvement, the underlying issues with the HVAC system and potential for "phantom braking" persisted.
2020: Android Auto integration was finally added in 2020, completing the smartphone integration picture for both Apple and Android users. The interior also received some updated trim elements. With both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available, the infotainment system became much more competitive. However, concerns about battery degradation continued to surface, and the other previously mentioned issues remained.
2021: This model year saw no major changes from the 2020 model. The features and issues remained largely the same. Due to production constraints and increased demand, availability of the 2021 Prius Prime was limited, driving up used prices.
2022: The 2022 model year marked the final year of the first-generation Prius Prime. It received no significant updates. It offers the potential to find well-maintained, lower-mileage examples of the first-generation design.
2023: This year marked a complete redesign of the Prius Prime, ushering in the second generation. The battery capacity increased to 13.6 kWh, boosting the all-electric range to approximately 44 miles. The electric motor was also upgraded, providing more power and improved performance. The interior and exterior were completely redesigned, offering a more modern and stylish aesthetic. It features the updated Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0). While the new generation is a significant improvement, it's important to be aware of potential "teething issues" that can sometimes arise with completely redesigned models. The higher price point and long wait times for new orders are also considerations.
2024: The 2024 model year is expected to be a carryover from the 2023 model, with no major changes anticipated. This makes it a potentially more reliable option than the 2023 model, as any initial production issues would likely have been addressed. However, the higher price point and potential limited availability remain factors to consider.
The Best Years
Based on the information above, the 2023 and 2024 model years are generally considered the best options for the Toyota Prius Prime. The complete redesign in 2023 brought significant improvements to battery capacity, electric range, power, and overall design. The 2024 model year, being a carryover, is likely to offer improved reliability compared to the initial 2023 release.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the 2019 and 2020 models offer a good balance of features and value, with the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto respectively.
Years to Avoid (Or Proceed with Caution)
While no year is inherently "bad," the 2017 and 2018 models are generally considered less desirable due to the infotainment system lag, potential for early battery degradation, and reports of "phantom braking." If you are considering these years, a thorough inspection and a battery health check are crucial. Be sure to test the infotainment system extensively and inquire about any service records related to the braking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Prius Prime year has the best electric range? The 2023 and 2024 models have the best electric range, offering approximately 44 miles.
What are the main differences between the first and second generation Prius Prime? The second generation (2023 and 2024) has a larger battery, longer electric range, more powerful motor, and a completely redesigned interior and exterior.
Which Prius Prime year is the most reliable? The 2024 model year is expected to be the most reliable, as it is a carryover from the redesigned 2023 model.
Does the Prius Prime qualify for tax credits? Federal and state tax credits for plug-in hybrid vehicles can vary depending on the year and your individual circumstances. Check with your tax advisor or the IRS for the most up-to-date information.
What is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS)? Toyota Safety Sense is a suite of active safety features designed to help prevent accidents. TSS-P and TSS 3.0 are different versions, with TSS 3.0 being the more advanced.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Toyota Prius Prime model year depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize the latest technology and longest electric range, the 2023 and 2024 models are the best choices. If you're on a budget, the 2019 and 2020 models offer a good balance of features and value, with the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Always conduct thorough research and inspection before making a purchase.