Flash Drive

2021 Toyota Prius XLE Hybrid

November 22, 2021 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2021 Toyota Prius XLE AWD-e Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Prius Hybrid is little changed from the previous model, but it can be equipped with all-wheel-drive.

Engine:  1.8-liter gas/electricI-4, 121 horsepower, 105 lb-ft torque

Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 51-mpg city, 47-mpg highway, 49-mpg combined

Base Price: $29,575

As Tested: $31,629

Performance:

Incredible fuel economy—our best was 53.5-mpg

Smooth, comfortable highway ride

Great city commuter car

Kicking up snow isn’t what most people associate with a Prius, but with AWD it’s easy to do.

Small outward size great for city parking

On the low side of horsepower

Seamless gas to electric power transition

All-wheel-drive great for snowy climates

Comfort:

Comfortable, supportive front seats

Nicely contoured, heated steering wheel

Heated front seats (2 temps)

Manual seat adjustments

Very good front legroom, especially on passenger side

Toyota Prius front row seating is excellent with ample room and comfort.

Ample headroom

Backseat snug unless fronts are moved up

OK adult backseat room with fronts up some

Low floor hump

Adults can fit in rear middle position

Adjustable front shoulder belt height

Utility:

Large hatchback, wide opening

Flat cargo deck

Cargo loops

Split folding seats make versatile cargo space

Rear seat room is OK if the fronts are moved up some.

Bonus small bins under cargo floor

Small, narrow front door bins

Good infotainment screen

Small rear door bins

Very nice seatback storage pouches

Extra zippered pouch on driver’s side

WOW Factors:

World-class fuel economy

Advanced Technology Package includes great head up display

Very good auxiliary steering wheel controls

Cargo/package space is very good with the rear seat up.

All-weather all-wheel-drive

Excellent safety features and safety ratings

Whines:

Cheap looking wheel covers

Pretty low on the excitement scale

Bottom Line:

The 2021 Toyota Prius XLE AWD-e Hybrid is a strong continuation of the compact hybrid that pretty well defined the whole hybrid movement. The name Prius is almost synonymous with

Cargo capacity is greatly increased with the split back seats folded down.

hybrid. It’s styling can be viewed as a little appliance-like, but there is no disputing the functionality and utility of a Toyota Prius. Add the all-wheel-drive feature and you’ve got a go anywhere, do anything extreme-economy car.