2021 Toyota Prius

There's very little positive to say about the Toyota Prius with how many better-looking, more enjoyable, and far more capable hybrid vehicles there are these days. It's also fully succumbed to its stereotype of being a pretentious and monotonous car - notions held in its priggish demeanor and painfully mundane drive characteristics. Though it is very frugal, it's not the most proficient hybrid in the game anymore, with the far more suave and contemporary Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid easily beating its fuel economy returns. A spacious interior and expansive trunk are strong points, but the overall quality feels far too second-rate and the ergonomics of the interior are frustrating. The standard infotainment touchscreen is also really small. Of course, the Prius does benefit from Toyota's reputation for reliability, and the NHTSA's review of the 2021 Toyota Prius to review returned an excellent five-star safety rating. It even earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. The current Prius is six years into its life cycle, and that is when Toyota often redesigns its cars, so we may see a new and better model. It's otherwise a really difficult car to recommend.

The Toyota Prius in top-spec form is too expensive for what it returns in features and quality. However, in entry-spec form, it's just too poorly outfitted. Though the top-spec Limited does come with the 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen and JBL sound system, it doesn't get Android Auto while all the other models do. The AWD models should also be avoided as they're much less fuel-efficient than the RWD models. The XLE trim is perhaps the most attractive offer. It comes with remote illuminated entry, rain-sensing wipers, and 17-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, there's a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats with heating, and SofTex faux leather cabin trim and upholstery that improves the cabin's look and feel. With no tonneau cover or AWD system, the XLE also retains its 27.4 cubic feet of trunk space.