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If you’re in the market for a new hybrid sedan there are few choices better than the 2021 Toyota Prius and the 2021 Toyota Prius Prime. If you’re comparing the 2021 Toyota Prius vs. Prius Prime, then you may be wondering which vehicle will best fit your California driving needs. Both models offer some of the best fuel economy ratings for their class and come with comfortable interiors filled with the latest Toyota technology. Learn more about the differences between the Prius and Prius Prime with Santa Cruz Toyota below, then contact our team to compare these models in person.
The first thing many drivers look at when shopping for a new vehicle is the starting price. Both the Toyota Prius and Prius Prime offer low-starting MSRPs that will give Santa Clara drivers a low monthly payment. However, drivers will save more when they opt for the Toyota Prius over the Toyota Prius Prime. With starting MSRP of $24,525*, drivers will save around $3,500 with the Toyota Prius compared to the Prius Prime, which starts at $28,220 MSRP*. Explore the difference between the Prius and Prius Prime starting prices below:
Drivers who shop at Santa Cruz Toyota can also save more on their monthly payments when they browse our rotating new vehicle specials. They can also pay less overall when they browse our used vehicle inventory.
The biggest difference between the Prius and Prius Prime is their performance on Watsonville roads. While both models have 1.8L engines that offer 121 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque, the Toyota Prius Prime has two electric motors and a larger battery pack than the Toyota Prius. This gives the Toyota Prius Prime an impressive 54 MPG/133 MPGe*, meaning it has a much longer electric range than the Toyota Prius. However, the 2021 Toyota Prius comes with one of the highest MPG ratings in its class for a hybrid sedan, offering 58 city/53 highway MPG** on the L Eco model with a single electric motor and its 1.8L engine. See the differences between the Toyota Prius and Prius Prime fuel economy ratings below:
An advantage of the Toyota Prius Prime is that it’s a plug-in hybrid, meaning it can be charged at home or at one of the many charging stations in California rather than visiting a gas station. However, the Toyota Prius offers AWDe as an optional drivetrain, giving Santa Cruz drivers more traction on tricky terrain or during inclement weather. The 2021 Toyota Prius Prime does not have an AWDe option. Overall, both models offer excellent handling and competitive performance on the road, making them perfect for drivers who need a vehicle to get them from point A to B during the day.
Comparing the 2021 Toyota Prius vs. Prius Prime interior reveals that both models have similar interior dimensions and features. While the Prius Prime has a more sophisticated design and interior materials to match its higher MSRP, California drivers will find that both models offer a suite of next-generation features that will keep drivers comfortable, connected, and entertained:
An added incentive for the Toyota Prius and the Prius Prime is the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0 (TSS-2.0) system. This intelligent driver-assist safety system comes standard on each Toyota Prius trim level and Prius Prime trim level, meaning that drivers can drive with more confidence no matter which Prius model or configuration they choose.
Now that you’ve compared the 2021 Toyota Prius vs. Prius Prime, come to our Capitola showroom to test drive both models and find the right fit for your daily commute! Our friendly team will show you everything from their performance specs to the 2021 Toyota Prius color options. Visit us today and soon you’ll be driving home in a new Toyota Prius or Prius Prime!
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