The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid with all-electric driving capabilities. With 44 miles of electrical range, it reverts into a hybrid, but in a much more efficient manner than the regular Prius. The company believes that implementing a diverse powertrain is more viable for the automotive industry in the long run. While most carmakers are moving towards making more all-electric vehicles, Toyota is content to keep making slow progress in the attempt to electrify all of its vehicles.

That said, the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is the closest thing to an all-electric vehicle that the company has ever manufactured, if you don't count the new bZ4X. With the Prius being a staple in Toyota's stable of well-selling vehicles, the Prime is what consumers have been waiting for. It is undecided if the Prime is better than the Prius, but it most definitely offers a suite of differences that might bode well for select consumers. So, what makes the Toyota Prius and the Prius Prime different? Surprisingly, a lot.

Despite having identical interior volume, and similar technology and safety features, there are a lot more differences between the Prius and the Prius Prime. With the 2023 models having a more aesthetically pleasing design, it's time to treat the Prius with a little more respect. Quick question: How do you feel about 133 MPG?

Related: Why The Toyota Prius Prime Is Better Than Every Other Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

Not A Lot Of Differences On The Outside

The 2023 Prius looks fantastic. Finally, Toyota has updated its exterior design to give it a sportier, more desirable feel. The car's new sportier, streamlined design, is sure to attract more attention. To the naked eye, there are not too many differences between the regular Prius and the Prius Prime. When driving a car, it is not all about what is under the hood. Or, in this case, what the battery is capable of. The Prius and the Prius Prime are for drivers who want to save money, drive a hybrid or electric, or want to drive a car with spectacular technology and safety features.

Exterior Specs

There is nothing to distinguish the exteriors of the Prius and the Prime. They look identical and that is because they are. The Prius Prime is heavier, however, and that is because of the battery in addition to the vehicle's standard mechanics. The two vehicles also have the same interior volume. So, what is different about these cars when it comes to their exteriors and interiors? Nothing, really. That said, the 2023 Prius and Prime are praised for their new exterior designs, but due to these new updates, the car has slightly less cargo space than in previous years.

Related: History Of The Toyota Prius

Toyota Has Given Both The Models A Lot Of Bells And Whistles

Although the 2023 Prius and Prius Prime models are a little bit smaller in terms of cargo and cabin space, there is still plenty of legroom and space to store belongings. Drivers can expect to get the same amount of cabin space and cargo room as any sedan on the market. The interior volumes of the Prius and Prime are virtually identical. The only difference is that the standard Prius, the LE trim, has slightly more volume than that of its other trims, as well as all the Prime's trim levels. The only way someone were to notice this, though, is with a tape measurer.

Interior Specs

Tech and Safety Features

As previously stated, the Prius is not designed for burn-outs, but it definitely has some impressive handling, technology, and safety features.

• 12.3-In. Toyota Audio Multimedia Display
• Top-Mount Multi-Information Display
• Qi Wireless Charging and USB Ports
• 6-speaker audio system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay®
• Wireless Android Auto™

In terms of safety features, both the Prius and the Prime come standard with a host of features to put your mind at ease. There is no major difference in this category, which is a good thing if you think about it. Toyota strives for consistency, and while there are tons of safety features these cars have to offer, we have listed the most notable:

• Integrated backup camera display
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) * – Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
• Smart Stop Technology® (SST)
• Eight airbags

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Toyota Prius Prime

There Is A Difference Between The Two In Terms Of Fuel Efficiency

There is one difference, however, that sets these two vehicles apart in a major way, and, no, it's not the horsepower. The MPG the Prime can archive is simply staggering. 57 MPG from the Prius is impressive. 133 MPG from the Prime is futuristic.

2023 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime Specs

You might save yourself some convenience by choosing the Prius, but you'll be saving yourself an exponential amount of money and trips to the gas station by choosing the Prius Prime. Not every consumer will have the resources for a plug-in, though, but the standard Prius should do just fine.

Related: Why Now Is The Time To Invest In an All-New Toyota Prius

Pricing and Trim Levels

2023 Toyota Prius and Price Prime Pricing

While the Prius Prime LE is cheaper than the Prius Limited, the standard Prius LE is a bargain for those looking to save a good chunk of cash when purchasing a car. With inflation and high APRs, buying a car is harder than ever. If saving money at the start is more important, then the standard Prius should be just fine. If saving money over time is what you are looking for, then the Prius Prime should be your one and only desire.

No matter how you look at it, both of these models are pretty darn amazing. The Prius offers flexibility and versatility, while the Prime offers endless savings. It is really up to preference, and the choice is yours.