Last summer, I started my review of the all-new 2023 Toyota Prius Prime by distinguishing between two types of car lovers: those obsessed with supercars and those who appreciate all types of vehicles, regardless of their price or performance. If you’re interested, you can find that review on our channel, Motor Illustrated.
Fast forward to today, and I’m back with another fifth-generation Toyota Prius. This car has been unexpectedly captivating me in several positive ways. In my previous review of the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid, I discussed many aspects, and despite my initial reservations about plug-in hybrids, I was thoroughly impressed. The added battery weight and reduced efficiency in colder conditions usually deter me, but the Prius Prime won me over.
The Only Sensible Car I’d Consider Over My Beloved Golf
Recently, while driving the 2024 Toyota Prius AWD Limited, a thought struck me. When asked about my dream car, my answer has consistently been the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen since 2009. I even purchased a brand new one in 2018. Another dream car was the Civic Type R, but that’s a different story. About a year and a half ago, Volkswagen offered to buy back my Golf due to the inflated market, but I declined. Their current offerings didn’t appeal to me enough. While the GTI and Golf R are excellent, they didn’t seem worth the $35,000-$40,000+ price tags at the time.
However, driving home in this striking Maximum Yellow Toyota Prius Limited all-wheel drive, I had a revelation: “This could actually be it.” This could be the car to replace my Golf, my attainable dream car. And I’m not exaggerating. The 2024 Prius is genuinely fantastic for all the right reasons.
There’s only one minor issue for me, and it’s not even about the car itself—it’s the Maximum Yellow color. I’ve owned yellow cars before, but as I get older, I think I would lean towards Reservoir Blue or Supersonic Red. These alternative colors are fortunately available on the base model. Speaking of models, the 2024 Prius is offered in three trims: the base LE, XLE, and Limited.
Why You Should Want a 2024 Prius Too
Let me cut to the chase: if you’re in the market for a compact sedan and have a budget around $40,000, and you’re looking to stand out from the SUV crowd, seriously consider the Prius. Just get a Prius. I’ve appreciated previous generations, but this one is truly exceptional.
Let’s delve into the specifics. The 2024 Prius starts at $37,500 for the base LE model, which includes standard all-wheel drive, an 8-inch display, smart key, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, heated front seats and steering wheel, and stylish 19-inch wheels. The top-of-the-line Limited trim, like the model I tested, comes in at $43,750. It’s packed with premium features such as heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic glass roof, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display, heated rear seats, and much more.
Inside, the attention to detail is remarkable. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with adequate bolstering, and the soft-touch materials throughout the cabin enhance the premium feel. The dashboard design is intuitive, featuring physical buttons for essential HVAC and seat heating/cooling controls, along with a highly responsive touchscreen. Visibility is excellent, creating a spacious, cab-forward sensation thanks to the expansive windshield and slender pillars.
The 2024 Prius Driving Experience Will Delight You
Now, let’s discuss the driving dynamics. This Prius is more than just a hybrid; it drives like a sports car in disguise – and that’s not an exaggeration. I recently picked up a friend who didn’t even realize it was a Prius until he noticed the badge. The car boasts a sleek, contemporary design, with well-proportioned wheel arches that perfectly complement the tires.
The driving experience is where the 2024 Prius truly excels. It’s powered by a 2.0L Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine coupled with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 196 horsepower. It feels responsive and is surprisingly fun to drive. The steering is light yet provides good feedback, and the brake pedal offers a reassuring feel. The multi-link rear suspension and 19-inch wheels contribute to a ride that is both comfortable and controlled. The car’s low and wide stance means it’s confident in corners and bends – in fact, it seems to enjoy them.
Fuel efficiency is another major advantage. Toyota claims a combined fuel consumption of 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers, and I’m averaging around 5.5, which is still incredibly impressive. This slightly higher average in my testing is still excellent for real-world driving conditions. The Prius is also capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.2 seconds—quite respectable for a hybrid vehicle.
The 2024 Prius: My Top Non-Sports Compact Car Choice
The sedan market is shrinking, but while compact and midsize sedans are generally well-engineered, few offer the overall package of the Prius for under $40,000, with the exceptions of the Corolla hybrid AWD and the upcoming 2025 Camry. When a basic, no-frills Honda Civic starts at $27,000 (!!!) and a standard Nissan Altima begins at nearly $32,000, the Prius’s starting price of $37,650 almost seems like a bargain in comparison.
The 2024 Toyota Prius is an outstanding car in almost every aspect. It’s no surprise it’s garnering awards. It masterfully combines fuel efficiency, performance, handling, and attractive styling, making it a serious contender for my next daily driver. If you are shopping for a new car, I highly recommend giving the Prius a test drive. You might be as pleasantly surprised as I am.
