2016 Toyota Prius Buyer's Guide

Proving the longer, lower and wider school of automotive design can translate to one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles the world has ever known, the fourth-generation Toyota Prius embodies all of those qualities in its redesign. Further, the model is more handsome and boasts better aerodynamics than the outgoing version of America’s favorite hybrid. This is evidenced by the new model’s 0.24 coefficient of drag (Cd). As a comparison, the sleek Lamborghini Aventador boasts a 0.23 Cd. Before you fret too much, though, rest assured the model remains instantly recognizable as a Prius. Making it easier to share its technology with other models in the Toyota range, the all-new new 2016 Toyota Prius platform is designed to also accommodate the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4.

What's the difference between trims?

• 16-inch wheels
• Keyless ignition
• Automatic climate control
• Rearview camera

• Single LED projector headlights
• Remote keyless entry
• Bluetooth hands-free
• 5-inch multi-information display

What makes it move?

For this fourth generation model, all the hybrid components are smaller and lighter than those employed in the third-generation car. A 1.8-liter gasoline-fired inline four is teamed with a pair of electric motors/generators, a continuously variable transmission, and a new lithium-ion battery pack (for all except the base model Prius 2). As of this writing, power output had yet to be announced; however, fuel economy is estimated to come in at 54 miles per gallon in the city, 50 on the highway, and 52 combined.

Why buy the 2016 Toyota Prius?

Incredibly economical, the 2016 Toyota Prius posts record-breaking fuel-economy numbers for mass-produced mainstream models without a plug-in powertrain. As enticing as this is, the new interior treatment also features a handsome wraparound design with intuitive controls, especially comfortable seating, and better outward visibility than ever before. The smaller battery pack lives under the back seat now, freeing up precious cargo capacity beneath the rear hatch. Incorporating more aluminum parts reduces weight, while the stiffer body and lower center of gravity improve handling. The optional Intelligent Parking Assist Function takes the 2016 Toyota Prius out of parallel parking spaces and backs it into perpendicular ones. Other cutting-edge driver’s aid features include lane keep assist, smart cruise control, pre-collision warning with automated braking, and pedestrian detection.