The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with fuel efficiency and practicality, but rarely with head-turning style. However, the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE is changing perceptions. Could this plug-in hybrid actually draw more glances than a Corvette in downtown Carmel? It’s a bold thought, but speaks volumes about the radical transformation Toyota has achieved with this latest generation. Gone is the ungainly aesthetic of previous models, replaced by a sleek, almost audacious design that’s proving to be a hit, especially in markets like California where they are increasingly common sights on the road. Having previously tested a top-spec Prius Prime, the question arises: how does the base SE trim level hold up? The answer, surprisingly, is remarkably well.
Beyond a steering system that feels a touch too light and a slight dip in fuel economy compared to older Priuses, there’s little to genuinely fault in the 2024 Prius Prime SE. Yes, the sloping roofline, crucial to its striking silhouette, does impinge slightly on rear headroom. But isn’t style worth a minor compromise? Similarly, the expansive windshield, while creating a sense of distance from the road, and the resulting A-pillars that can occasionally obstruct vision, are quirks that fade into the background with familiarity. These minor points aside, Toyota has crafted a compelling vehicle in the Prius Prime SE.
Stepping inside the base SE model reveals an interior that represents a significant leap forward for Toyota. While overt luxury is absent, and some hard plastics remain, the key touchpoints are pleasingly soft and substantial, conveying a sense of quality that belies its accessible price point under $35,000. It’s not a lavish cabin, yet it avoids feeling austere or cheap, unlike some competitors in the same class. Comfort levels are generally high, proven during a lengthy four-hour drive to Monterey, which remained remarkably stress-free. The continuation of the hatchback design ensures cargo space is generous and easily accessible, enhancing its practicality. However, the interior does fall slightly short when compared to the Honda Civic Hybrid, a similarly priced rival boasting a notably more upscale cabin ambiance.
Performance-wise, the 2024 Prius Prime SE impresses. The 220-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers a genuinely punchy response, a stark contrast to the sluggishness of previous Prius iterations. While a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds might not set any records, it’s a substantial three seconds quicker than older models—a difference that feels transformative on the road. Fuel economy does take a slight hit in the pursuit of enhanced performance, but an average of 43 MPG in mixed driving (operating purely as a hybrid without utilizing plug-in charge) remains excellent. As a plug-in hybrid, the Prius Prime SE offers the flexibility of electric driving, providing approximately 40 miles of pure electric range when charged. This plug-in capability is particularly advantageous for those with shorter commutes and convenient charging options, striking an ideal balance between electric and gasoline power. Toyota’s expertise in hybrid technology is evident in the seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power, operating with exceptional smoothness. The four-cylinder engine, while still somewhat coarse under hard acceleration, is nonetheless a refinement over previous generations.
The steering, while light and lacking in feedback, contributes to an overall sense of ease and maneuverability, although it can feel somewhat toy-like. However, the handling and cornering abilities are surprisingly adept. Grip levels are plentiful, even on eco-focused tires, and the front end exhibits a commendable willingness to hold its line through corners at reasonable speeds. Previous Priuses were notorious for early and dramatic understeer, but this new model displays a dynamic aptitude previously unseen in a Prius. While it’s not on par with a sports car, or even significantly superior to a Toyota Camry in terms of handling prowess, the fact that it’s comparable at all is a testament to the progress made. This new Prius is significantly more engaging and dynamically capable than its predecessors, a noteworthy achievement. Where older models would falter dramatically in spirited cornering, the 2024 Prius Prime SE can confidently handle winding roads at a fair pace. The combination of increased horsepower and enhanced grip means the Prius is no longer a vehicle that will hold up traffic, regardless of the road type.
The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE has a great deal to offer, a sentiment that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago. Toyota has executed a remarkable transformation, evolving the Prius from a visually unappealing car to a stylish and surprisingly sporty commuter. Its comprehensive strengths make it a more compelling option than a Corolla Hybrid, and perhaps even a Camry, simply due to its superior aesthetics and overall desirability. The primary alternative to consider might be the upcoming Honda Civic Hybrid for buyers prioritizing a more refined and mature interior. However, for many, the captivating design of the Prius Prime SE will be the deciding factor.
2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE
As-tested price: $34,434
Pros:
- Stunning and modern aesthetics
- Impressive performance for a Prius
- Excellent fuel economy
- Practical hatchback design
- Plug-in hybrid capability
Cons:
- Limited rear headroom
- Interior not as upscale as some rivals
- Light steering feel
