The Toyota Prius. For years, it was a vehicle often met with skepticism, even derision. But times have changed. The fifth-generation Prius is here, and it’s not just a step forward – it’s a leap. As someone deeply familiar with the inner workings of automobiles, and especially Toyota vehicles here at Miller Toyota, I’ve been keenly observing this new model. Having spent considerable time examining and understanding the 2024 Toyota Prius, I can confidently say this isn’t just another Prius; it’s a game-changer. Toyota has taken the Prius, a car synonymous with fuel efficiency, and injected it with a dose of style and performance that’s genuinely surprising. Let’s dive into what makes the 2024 Toyota Prius stand out, not just as a hybrid, but as a compelling car in its own right.
The most immediate and striking aspect of the 2024 Prius is undoubtedly its design. Toyota has completely reimagined the Prius aesthetic, moving away from the somewhat polarizing looks of previous generations to create a vehicle that’s genuinely head-turning. The redesign for the 2023 model year was nothing short of revolutionary, and the 2024 model year continues to build on that momentum. Attending the debut of this generation, even seasoned automotive professionals were audibly impressed by the transformation. Riding on Toyota’s TNGA-C platform, shared with models like the Corolla and Lexus UX, the new Prius is lower, longer, and wider, giving it a more planted and athletic stance.
The front fascia is a masterclass in design detail. The thin LED headlights flow seamlessly into the front fenders, intersected by a subtle, blade-like lip, likely contributing to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. The lower bumper, with its integrated lights and grille, adds a unique and sophisticated touch. But while the front is impressive, the rear of the 2024 Toyota Prius is arguably its most captivating angle. A striking red LED light bar stretches across the width of the trunk, complemented by neatly integrated backup lights below. The rear window, predominantly black regardless of the chosen body color, creates a distinctive visual signature. The lower bumper is further enhanced with black trim and discreet reflector lamps, completing the cohesive and modern rear design.
From the side, the 2024 Toyota Prius’s dramatically swooping profile becomes even more apparent. The windshield angle, raked at an astonishing 21.6 degrees, is one of the most extreme design elements. To put this in perspective, it’s incredibly close to the windshield angle of the Lexus LFA supercar, underscoring the level of design ambition Toyota brought to this new Prius. This attention to detail in design doesn’t come at an exorbitant price. The 2024 Prius is available in LE, XLE, and Limited trim levels, each with optional all-wheel drive. The XLE model, a particularly well-balanced trim, starts at a reasonable price point, even with optional upgrades like the vibrant Supersonic Red paint, a larger infotainment touchscreen, and a fixed glass roof, making it an attainable option for a wide range of buyers.
The powertrain of the 2024 Toyota Prius represents another significant leap forward. Historically, Prius models were not known for their power, but Toyota has addressed this head-on. The 2024 Prius features a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine paired with a new lithium-ion battery pack. This combination yields a robust 194 horsepower, with an additional boost for all-wheel-drive models. This power increase is substantial when compared to the previous generation’s 121 horsepower, making the new Prius feel considerably more responsive and capable in everyday driving situations. The improved power translates to quicker acceleration. The 2024 Prius can now reach 60 mph in around 7 seconds, a remarkable improvement from the previous generation’s much slower acceleration. This enhanced performance makes merging onto highways and navigating traffic a far more confident and enjoyable experience.
Stepping inside the 2024 Toyota Prius reveals an interior that is a significant departure from previous models. The cabin is now a genuinely pleasant space to spend time. The outdated vertically oriented touchscreen and center gauge cluster are gone, replaced by a more conventional and user-friendly layout. A horizontal 12.3-inch touchscreen (an 8-inch screen is standard), a digital gauge cluster directly in front of the driver, a traditional center console shifter, and physical controls for climate and seat heating contribute to a more refined and intuitive interior environment. A standout feature of the interior is the ingenious wireless phone charger. Located conveniently next to the gear shifter, this charger is designed as a slot where your phone securely drops into place. It features a power button and indicator light, offering both charging functionality and a secure phone storage solution when not charging.
Starting the 2024 Toyota Prius is a seamless and quiet affair. Pressing the start button initiates the system checks with minimal sound, as the car defaults to EV mode. The gasoline engine only engages if immediate heating or air conditioning is needed. Toyota’s decades of experience in hybrid technology are evident in the smooth transitions between electric and gasoline operation. The shifts are virtually imperceptible, enhancing the overall driving experience. The added power from the hybrid system provides a noticeable boost in responsiveness, making acceleration for passing or quick starts surprisingly spirited. The handling of the 2024 Prius is another unexpected highlight. It exhibits a level of agility and responsiveness that’s genuinely surprising for a Prius. With sportier tires and a bit more horsepower, it could genuinely rival some hot hatches in terms of driving fun. For those seeking even more performance, the 220-hp Prius Prime plug-in hybrid offers an even more engaging driving experience.
Of course, fuel economy remains a core strength of the Prius, and the 2024 model continues to excel in this area. Real-world driving demonstrates fuel economy figures that often meet or even exceed Toyota’s already impressive estimates. Even during demanding driving conditions, the Prius maintains excellent fuel efficiency, showcasing its hybrid system’s effectiveness. However, the pursuit of style in the 2024 Toyota Prius does come with some compromises. The sleek roofline, while visually appealing, does impact interior headroom and rear visibility. Headroom is reduced slightly compared to previous generations, particularly for taller occupants or models equipped with the glass roof. Rear visibility is also somewhat limited due to the C-pillar and rear window design. A live feed rear camera, available on the top-tier Prius Limited, would be a valuable addition to address this.
The steering wheel design, shared with the bZ4X, is a notable point of contention. Its unusual shape and smaller size may not be to everyone’s liking, especially for drivers with larger hands. The digital speedometer, while now positioned directly in front of the driver, is placed somewhat far away, near the base of the windshield, which might take some getting used to. The electronic gear shifter, while relocated to a more conventional position, still operates differently from a traditional PRNDL setup and may require a brief learning period. The four-cylinder engine, while offering improved power, is not the most refined in terms of noise and vibration. Under hard acceleration or in Sport mode, it can become somewhat coarse and loud, and the CVT transmission can accentuate engine drone. The dedicated EV mode button feels somewhat redundant, as the Prius already defaults to EV mode under various conditions. Finally, while perhaps specific to the test vehicle, there were reports of noticeable static electricity buildup in the B-pillar area.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2024 Toyota Prius is undeniably the best Prius to date. It overcomes the previous generation’s staid image, offering a vehicle that’s both stylish and genuinely enjoyable to drive. You no longer need to feel self-conscious about driving a Prius. As a repair expert at Miller Toyota, I appreciate the engineering advancements and design improvements Toyota has implemented. The sales figures speak for themselves; many buyers are clearly recognizing the significant advancements in the 2024 Prius. I, for one, would happily recommend and even consider purchasing the 2024 Toyota Prius.
