2024 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-In Hybrid: Affordable and Impressive

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE is the most affordable plug-in hybrid in the U.S., offering 45 miles of electric range, impressive efficiency, and fun driving dynamics.

Pros:

45 miles of electric range
Most affordable PHEV in the U.S.
Fun to drive

Cons:

Slow onboard charger
No automatic headlights
EV mode performance diminishes at higher speeds

The entry-level 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE, the plug-in hybrid version of the Prius, mirrors the base LE trim of the Prius hybrid. This basic form brings several benefits: lighter weight, better aerodynamics, improved efficiency, and a superior ride quality. Notably, it’s the fastest Prius ever tested.

The Cheapest Plug-In Hybrid in America

Starting at $34,070, the 2024 Prius Prime SE is the most affordable plug-in hybrid available. It narrowly beats the $35,765 Kia Niro PHEV and is significantly cheaper than the midgrade Prius Prime XSE and top-tier Prius Prime XSE Premium by $3,250 and $6,695, respectively. Despite its lower price, the base-model Prius Prime SE is well-equipped, though it does have one notable omission, which we’ll discuss shortly.

All three Prime trims feature a front-wheel-drive powertrain with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine, a starter/generator, and a primary electric drive motor, producing a combined output of 220 horsepower. Unlike the Prius hybrid, the Prime does not offer an all-wheel-drive option, leaving those who need AWD out of luck. However, the plug-in hybrid is more powerful than the 196-hp AWD hybrid.

Weighing in at just 3,436 pounds, the Prime SE is 118 pounds lighter than the fully-loaded Prius Prime XSE Premium. This weight reduction is partly due to the SE’s lack of sunroofs and premium features, and its smaller 17-inch aluminum wheels with aerodynamic covers. These wheels contribute to a tighter turning circle (34.4 feet versus 35.4 feet) and reduced aerodynamic drag (coefficient of drag of 0.27 versus 0.29).

Improved Efficiency and Performance

The weight and aerodynamic improvements translate into better real-world driving and track performance. The EPA rates the Prime SE at 53/51/52 mpg city/highway/combined in hybrid mode, better than the Prius Prime XSE’s 50/47/48 mpg. The SE’s all-electric range is also superior at 45 miles, compared to the higher trims’ 39 miles. In testing, the SE often exceeded this range by 1-3 miles with spirited city and highway driving.

Efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of performance. In all-electric mode, the Prime SE accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 9.9 seconds and completes the quarter mile in 17.4 seconds. This is quicker than the heavier XSE Premium. The EV mode is zippy around town but loses some oomph on the highway above 50-60 mph.

Switching to hybrid mode, which engages the gas engine, the Prime SE feels faster, reaching 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.7 seconds at 96.8 mph. This outpaces the Prius Prime XSE Premium by 0.2 and 0.1 seconds, respectively. Launching is straightforward: select Sport mode, disable stability and traction control, and hit the accelerator for a surprisingly spirited start.

Enjoyable Driving Experience

The Prime SE also excels on the figure-eight course, showing great balance and control. The small steering wheel is pleasant to use and ideal for cornering. While the seats lack lateral support, their high-quality cloth material is more comfortable than the faux leather in higher trims. The SE completed the course in 27.3 seconds with a maximum cornering grip of 0.79 g, slightly trailing the XSE Premium. However, the SE’s ride quality is superior, which is a key concern for most buyers.

Minor Drawbacks

The 2024 Prius Prime SE comes with a decent array of standard features, including wireless Apple CarPlay, proximity locking/unlocking for the driver’s door, and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automated emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. However, it lacks automatic headlights, a surprising omission for a vehicle showcasing Toyota’s hybrid technology. Additionally, the slow 3.3-kW max charging rate means it takes a minimum of 4 hours to recharge the 13.6-kWh battery on a Level 2 charger. Using the engine to charge the battery is quicker but only fills it to 80 percent. An upgrade to a 6.6-kW charger or DC fast-charging capability would be welcome.

Final Verdict

Base models often disappoint, but the Prime SE reveals fundamental excellence. As part of the family that won the 2024 Car of the Year award, it’s the most affordable PHEV on the market. It combines attractive design, quick performance, and essential tech for efficient, gas-free driving in town and fuel-efficient road trips.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE Specifications

Base Price: $34,070
Price as Tested: $34,734
Vehicle Layout: Front-engine/motor, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback
Engine: 2.0L port- and direct-injected Atkinson-cycle DOHC 16-valve I-4 plus permanent-magnet electric motors
Power (SAE Net): 150 hp @ 6,000 rpm (gas), 161 hp (elec); 220 hp (comb)
Torque (SAE Net): 139 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (gas), N/A lb-ft (elec); N/A lb-ft (comb)
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
Curb Weight (F/R Dist): 3,436 lb (57/43%)
Wheelbase: 108.3 in
Length x Width x Height: 181.1 x 70.2 x 55.9 in
0-60 MPH: 6.1 sec, 9.9 sec (EV mode)
Quarter Mile: 14.7 sec @ 96.8 mph, 17.4 sec @ 78.4 mph (EV mode)
Braking, 60-0 MPH: 131 ft
Lateral Acceleration: 0.79 g (avg)
MT Figure Eight: 27.3 sec @ 0.63 g (avg), 29.0 sec @ 0.54 g (avg) (EV mode)
EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ: 53/51/52 mpg (gas), 140/115/127* mpg-e
EPA Range, Comb: 45 miles (elec), 600* miles
On Sale: Now