How the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid Can Save You Money

Posted on by

The Toyota Prius has been the poster child of hybrid cars for over two decades, offering drivers a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly alternative to conventional gas-powered vehicles. But what if you could go even further with your green driving habits and enjoy the benefits of an electric and hybrid car in one?

That’s the promise of the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, the plug-in hybrid version of the popular Prius. The Prius Prime lets you drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles and then seamlessly switches to its hybrid engine when the battery runs low. This way, you can reduce your gas consumption and emissions while still having the flexibility and convenience of a hybrid car.

But how does the Prius Prime compare to other plug-in hybrids on the market, and is it worth the extra cost over the regular Prius? I’ll take a closer look at the features, performance, and value of the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime and show you why it might be the best choice for your next car purchase.

What is a Plug-in Hybrid and How Does It Work?

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a type of hybrid car that can be plugged into an external power source to charge its battery and use its gas engine to generate electricity. Unlike a regular hybrid car, which can only drive a short distance on electric power, a plug-in hybrid can drive for longer distances on battery power alone, depending on the size and capacity of its battery.

The main advantage of a plug-in hybrid is that it can reduce your fuel consumption and emissions significantly, especially if you drive mostly in the city or have a short commute. You can also save money on gas and maintenance and qualify for federal and state tax credits and incentives for buying an electric vehicle.

The main drawback of a plug-in hybrid is that it is more expensive than a regular hybrid car and requires access to a charging station or an outlet to recharge its battery. You also need to plan your trips carefully, as you may run out of battery power before reaching your destination or a charging station.

What Makes the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Different from Other Plug-in Hybrids?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is not the first or the only plug-in hybrid on the market, but it has some unique features and advantages that make it stand out from the crowd. Here are some of the key differences and benefits of the Prius Prime:

  • It has a longer electric range than most plug-in hybrids. The Prius Prime has a manufacturer-estimated EPA-estimated all-electric driving range of up to 44 miles, which is more than double the range of most plug-in hybrids, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (28 miles), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (29 miles), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (37 miles). This means you can drive longer and farther on electric power, and use less gas and produce less emissions.
  • It has a higher fuel efficiency than most plug-in hybrids. The Prius Prime has a combined fuel economy rating of 52 MPG when running on its hybrid engine and 127 MPGE when running on its electric motor. MPGe stands for miles per gallon equivalent and measures how far a car can travel on the amount of energy in one gallon of gas. The Prius Prime’s fuel efficiency is higher than most plug-in hybrids, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (42 mpg/110 MPGe), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (52 mpg/119 MPGe), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (41 mpg/102 MPGe). This means you can save more money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
  • It has a more powerful and responsive performance than the previous Prius Prime. The 2024 Prius Prime has a total system output of 220 horsepower, a significant increase from the previous model’s 121 horsepower. The Prius Prime also has a faster acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, compared to the previous model’s 10.2 seconds. The Prius Prime’s performance is comparable to or better than some of its plug-in hybrid rivals, such as the Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid (212 horsepower, 7.7 seconds), the Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid (156 horsepower, 8.9 seconds), and the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (221 horsepower, 8.7 seconds). This means you can enjoy a more fun and exhilarating driving experience without compromising on efficiency or eco-friendliness.
  • It has a sleeker and more futuristic design than the regular Prius. The 2024 Prius Prime has a more streamlined and aerodynamic shape than the regular Prius, with a lower and wider stance, a longer and sharper nose, and a shorter and higher tail. The Prius Prime also has a distinctive front grille, LED headlights and taillights, and 19-inch alloy wheels. The Prius Prime’s design is more appealing and attractive than the regular Prius, and it also improves its performance and efficiency by reducing air resistance and drag.

How Much Does the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime Cost and What Features Does It Offer?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime comes in three trim levels: SE, XSE, and XSE Premium. The base price of the Prius Prime starts at $32,975 for the SE, $36,225 for the XSE, and $39,670 for the XSE Premium. The prices do not include the destination charge of $1,025 or any taxes, fees, or incentives.

The Prius Prime offers a variety of features and options, depending on the trim level. Here are some of the highlights of each trim level:

  • SE: The SE is the entry-level trim of the Prius Prime, but it still comes with plenty of standard features, such as:
    • Top-mount Multi-Information Display (MID) with indicators and 7-in. LCD display
    • Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
    • 8.0-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
    • Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5), which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), and Road Sign Assist (RSA)
    • Smart Key System on driver’s door with Push Button Start
    • Heated front seats with fabric trim
    • 60/40 split fold-down rear seats
    • Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging with charge indicator light
    • LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and LED taillights
    • 15-in. alloy wheels and 195/65R15 tires
  • XSE: The XSE is the mid-level trim of the Prius Prime, and it adds some more features and options to the SE, such as:
    • 19-in. alloy wheels and 195/50R19 tires
    • SofTex®-trimmed front seats with 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
    • Color Head-Up Display (HUD) with speedometer, navigation, and Hybrid System Indicator
    • Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights
    • LED fog lights and accent lights
    • Rain-sensing variable intermittent windshield wipers
    • Power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade
    • Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® universal transceiver
    • Power liftgate with jam protection
    • Available Premium Package, which includes 12.3-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen display, 8-speaker JBL® Premium Audio including amplifier, and fixed glass roof
  • XSE Premium: The XSE Premium is the top-of-the-line trim of the Prius Prime, and it includes all the features and options of the XSE, plus the Premium Package as standard.

How Much Can You Save with the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime can help you save money and the planet in several ways. Here are some of the main ways you can benefit from owning a Prius Prime:

  • You can save money on gas. The Prius Prime can run on electric power for up to 44 miles, which means you can avoid using gas for most of your daily trips. Even when you run out of battery power, the Prius Prime still has a high fuel efficiency of 52 mpg, which means you can go farther on less gas. According to the EPA, the Prius Prime has an annual fuel cost of $650, based on 15,000 miles of driving, 55% city and 45% highway, and a gas price of $2.65 per gallon. This is much lower than the average annual fuel cost of $1,400 for a new vehicle and $1,050 for a new hybrid vehicle. Over five years, you can save up to $3,750 on gas with the Prius Prime, compared to a new vehicle, and up to $2,000 compared to a new hybrid vehicle.
  • You can save money on maintenance. The Prius Prime has a low maintenance cost thanks to its reliable and durable hybrid system, which reduces the wear and tear on the engine and other components. The Prius Prime also comes with ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan that covers normal factory scheduled service for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for three years, unlimited mileage. According to Edmunds, the Prius Prime has a five-year total cost of ownership of $30,749, which is lower than the average of $36,470 for a new vehicle and $32,723 for a new hybrid vehicle. Over five years, you can save up to $5,721 on maintenance with the Prius Prime, compared to a new vehicle, and up to $1,974, compared to a new hybrid vehicle.
  • You can save money on taxes and incentives. The Prius Prime qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $4,502, depending on your tax situation and the battery capacity of the vehicle. The Prius Prime may also qualify for state and local incentives, such as rebates, discounts, HOV lane access, and free parking, depending on where you live and register your vehicle. You can check the availability and eligibility of these incentives at https://www.afdc.energy.gov/laws/. These incentives can help you lower the upfront cost of buying a Prius Prime, and make it more affordable and competitive than a regular hybrid or a gas-powered vehicle.
  • You can save the planet by reducing your environmental impact. The Prius Prime can help you reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and your dependence on fossil fuels, by using more renewable and clean energy sources. The Prius Prime emits only 80 grams of CO2 per mile, which is much lower than the average of 381 grams of CO2 per mile for a new vehicle, and 211 grams of CO2 per mile for a new hybrid vehicle. The Prius Prime also uses only 0.6 barrels of oil per year, which is much lower than the average of 10.3 barrels of oil per year for a new vehicle, and 5.7 barrels of oil per year for a new hybrid vehicle. By choosing the Prius Prime, you can help combat climate change and air pollution, and contribute to a more sustainable and healthy future for yourself and others.

How do you charge the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and how long does it take?

One of the main questions that potential buyers of the Prius Prime may have is how to charge the battery and how long it takes. The good news is that charging the Prius Prime is easy and convenient, and you have several options, depending on your needs and preferences.

The Prius Prime has a standard 120-volt charging cable, which you can plug into any regular household outlet. This is the simplest and most accessible way to charge your Prius Prime, but it is also the slowest. It takes about 12 hours to fully charge the Prius Prime’s battery using a 120-volt outlet, which may not be ideal if you need to charge your car quickly or frequently.

If you want to speed up the charging process, you can opt for a 240-volt charging station, which you can install at your home or use at a public charging station. A 240-volt charging station can fully charge the Prius Prime’s battery in about 2.5 hours, which is much faster and more convenient than a 120-volt outlet. However, a 240-volt charging station may require additional installation costs and permits, and it may not be available everywhere.

Another option to charge the Prius Prime is to use its hybrid engine, which can generate electricity and replenish the battery while you drive. This is a handy feature that allows you to extend your electric range and save gas, without having to plug in your car. However, this option may not be as efficient or eco-friendly as using an external power source, as it still consumes some gas and produces some emissions.

The best way to charge the Prius Prime depends on your driving habits and preferences. If you drive mostly short distances and have access to a 240-volt charging station, you can maximize your electric driving and minimize your gas usage. If you drive longer distances and have access to a 120-volt outlet, you can still enjoy some electric driving and save some gas, but you may need to plan your charging schedule beforehand. Suppose you drive in mixed conditions and have no access to a charging station. In that case, you can still benefit from the hybrid engine and its regenerative braking system, which can help you optimize your fuel efficiency and performance.

How do you drive the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and what modes does it have?

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is designed to offer you a smooth and comfortable driving experience, with a range of modes and features that you can customize to suit your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main modes and features that the Prius Prime has:

  • EV Mode: This is the default mode of the Prius Prime, which allows you to drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles, as long as the battery has enough charge. This mode is ideal for city driving and short trips, as it can help you save gas and reduce emissions. You can also switch to EV Mode manually by pressing the EV Mode button on the center console if you want to use electric power at any time.
  • HV Mode: This is the mode that the Prius Prime automatically switches to when the battery runs low or when you need more power, such as when you accelerate or climb a hill. This mode uses both the electric motor and the gas engine to power the car, and it can help you maintain a high fuel efficiency of 52 mpg. You can also switch to HV Mode manually by pressing the HV Mode button on the center console if you want to save some battery charge for later use.
  • EV Auto Mode: This is a mode that the Prius Prime automatically switches to when it detects that you need more power than the EV Mode can provide, such as when you exceed a certain speed or when you demand more acceleration. This mode uses both the electric motor and the gas engine to power the car, but it prioritizes the electric power over the gas power, as long as the battery has enough charge. This mode can help you optimize your performance and efficiency, without compromising on your electric driving. You can also switch to EV Auto Mode manually by pressing the EV Auto Mode button on the center console if you want to let the car decide the best power source for you.
  • ECO Mode: This is a mode that you can activate by pressing the ECO Mode button on the center console, regardless of the other modes. This mode adjusts the throttle response and the climate control system to reduce energy consumption and increase the car’s fuel efficiency. This mode can help you save gas and extend your range, but it may also reduce the responsiveness and comfort of the car.
  • Power Mode: You can activate this mode by pressing the Power Mode button on the center console, regardless of the other modes. This mode increases the throttle response and the car’s power output to enhance the acceleration and performance of the car. This mode can help you enjoy a more sporty and exhilarating driving experience, but it may also increase gas consumption and reduce the car’s fuel efficiency.

How do you buy the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, and where do you find it?

Suppose you are interested in buying the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime. In that case, you can visit the official Toyota website at https://www.toyota.com/priusprime/ to learn more about the features, specifications, and prices of the Prius Prime. You can also use the website to build and customize your own Prius Prime, compare it with other models, and find a dealer near you.

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is expected to be available in the US market in late 2023 or early 2024, depending on the supply and demand. The Prius Prime may also be available in other markets, such as Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia, but the availability and prices may vary depending on the region and the regulations.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that offers the best of both worlds: the efficiency and eco-friendliness of an electric car and the flexibility and convenience of a hybrid car. The Prius Prime can drive on pure electric power for up to 44 miles and then switch to its hybrid engine when the battery runs low, giving you a combined range of over 600 miles. The Prius Prime also has a high fuel economy of 52 mpg and 127 MPGe, a powerful and responsive performance of 220 horsepower and 6.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph, and a sleek and futuristic design that improves its aerodynamics and aesthetics.

The Prius Prime can also help you save money and the planet by reducing your gas consumption and emissions, lowering your maintenance and ownership costs, and qualifying you for tax credits and incentives. The Prius Prime is easy and convenient to charge, with several options to choose from, and it offers