The Toyota Prius, a name synonymous with hybrid innovation and fuel efficiency, is entering the 2025 model year with exciting updates, including the introduction of a striking new Nightshade grade. Building upon its legacy of eco-consciousness and cutting-edge technology, the New Toyota Prius continues to impress with its fifth-generation hybrid system, stylish design, and a range of features designed to elevate the driving experience.
The 2025 Toyota Prius lineup expands to include four distinct grades: LE, XLE, Nightshade, and Limited, offering a variety of choices to suit different preferences and needs. The spotlight, however, shines brightly on the all-new Nightshade grade, a sophisticated and sporty iteration based on the XLE trim.
Introducing the Toyota Prius Nightshade: A Touch of Darkness
For drivers seeking a Prius with a bolder aesthetic, the Nightshade grade delivers in spades. This new trim level injects a dose of dramatic flair into the Prius’s sleek silhouette with a series of blacked-out exterior elements. Imagine rolling on exclusive 19-inch black-finished alloy wheels, complemented by black exterior badging that replaces traditional chrome accents. The dark theme continues with a black shark fin antenna, black front door handles, and black bumper trim, creating a cohesive and undeniably cool “nightshade” effect.
Adding to the Nightshade grade’s allure is the introduction of a brand-new, exclusive exterior color: Karashi. This unique hue provides a distinctive option for Nightshade buyers, further setting it apart from the rest of the Prius family. For those preferring a more classic dark palette, Midnight Black Metallic and Wind Chill Pearl remain available as exterior color choices for the Nightshade grade.
Performance and Efficiency: The Heart of the New Toyota Prius
Underneath the stylish exterior, the 2025 Toyota Prius retains its commitment to exceptional fuel economy and responsive performance. All models are powered by the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), a sophisticated powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter engine with electric motor(s).
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Prius models boast an impressive 194 net-combined horsepower, providing brisk acceleration and smooth cruising. For enhanced traction and all-weather confidence, Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is available across all grades, boosting the net-combined horsepower slightly to 196.
Fuel efficiency remains a key highlight, with FWD models achieving an outstanding EPA-estimated combined rating of up to 57 MPG. Even AWD-equipped Prius models maintain impressive efficiency, earning an EPA-estimated 54 MPG combined rating, proving that all-weather capability doesn’t come at the expense of fuel savings.
Fifth Generation Hybrid System: Efficiency and Power in Harmony
The stellar fuel economy and performance of the new Toyota Prius are rooted in the advanced Fifth Generation Toyota Hybrid System. This system intelligently integrates a M20A-FXS 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with two motor-generators through a continuously variable transmission.
A key innovation is the compact, high-output drive motor within the transaxle, utilizing a six-magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration to optimize drive functions. Working in concert with a larger electric motor (MG2), the engine ensures responsive acceleration, while both electric motors (MG1 and MG2) contribute to charging the lithium-ion battery, maximizing energy efficiency.
The result is an engaging driving experience with a combined 194 horsepower and an estimated 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 7.2 seconds for FWD models.
Further enhancing fuel efficiency is the Electronically Controlled Brake system. This system intelligently coordinates regenerative braking from the electric motors with the hydraulic braking system, optimizing stopping power while recovering kinetic energy to recharge the battery. This seamless cooperative control maximizes fuel economy by proactively utilizing the electric motors for energy regeneration.
The Prius also features an EV mode, enabling short-distance pure electric driving under certain conditions, such as low speed and sufficient battery charge. This mode is particularly useful in parking lots or indoor garages, minimizing emissions in enclosed environments. To ensure pedestrian safety when operating in EV mode, the Vehicle Proximity Notification system emits an audible alert.
Drivers can also customize the Prius’s driving dynamics with selectable Drive modes:
- NORMAL: Balances fuel economy and acceleration for everyday driving.
- ECO: Prioritizes fuel efficiency by moderating power output in response to gentle accelerator input.
- SPORT: Enhances responsiveness and acceleration for a more dynamic driving experience.
Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive: Enhanced Confidence in Any Weather
The 2025 Toyota Prius offers available Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all grades, providing enhanced traction and stability when needed most. The AWD system employs a dedicated electric motor to power the rear wheels, delivering confident performance in various driving scenarios, including accelerating from a stop, navigating slippery surfaces, and cornering.
AWD-equipped Prius models slightly increase the combined system horsepower to 196 and achieve a manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds. The rear-mounted high-output IPM motor ensures a compact and efficient design, minimizing wheel slip and enhancing stability.
The system operates seamlessly, preemptively distributing torque to the rear wheels during starts to prevent front wheel slip. It also intelligently engages the rear motor in response to front wheel slippage and enhances cornering agility by mitigating understeer.
The AWD system precisely manages front-rear torque distribution based on driving conditions, leveraging data from wheel speed and G-force sensors. This intelligent electronic control ensures optimal torque distribution for stable and confident driving in a variety of situations.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Connectivity and Convenience at Your Fingertips
Inside the cabin, the 2025 Toyota Prius is packed with intelligent technology designed to enhance connectivity and convenience. LE and XLE grades feature an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, while Nightshade and Limited grades boast a larger 12.3-inch screen.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system provides access to a suite of enhanced features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, ensuring your system stays current with the latest software and functionalities. Intuitive touch and voice activation controls allow for seamless interaction with the system.
Available Drive Connect* Connected Services unlock even more capabilities, including Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant responds to voice commands like “Hey Toyota” to provide directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio settings, and control cabin temperature. Cloud Navigation leverages real-time cloud data for up-to-date maps, traffic information, and routing. Destination Assist provides 24/7 live agent support to help you locate your next destination.
The system supports dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, allowing seamless smartphone integration. For audiophiles, the Prius Limited offers an available JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers and Clari-Fi® technology, which enhances compressed digital music for a richer listening experience. A six-speaker audio system is standard on LE and XLE grades.
Charging devices is a breeze with six USB-C ports strategically placed throughout the cabin. Two ports are located at the bottom of the center stack, two in the center console, and two for rear passengers at the rear of the center console.
The Prius also offers Wi-Fi Connect* with a trial period, providing 4G connectivity for up to five devices, transforming your car into a mobile hotspot. Integrated Streaming allows you to link your Apple Music® and Amazon Music® subscriptions for in-car control, complementing HD Radio®, USB data, and SiriusXM® compatibility.
Safety Connect* and Service Connect* trials are also included, offering features like Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator, Vehicle Health Reports, and Maintenance Alerts. Remote Connect* via the Toyota mobile app allows you to remotely control features like headlights, door locks, and vehicle start, as well as check vehicle status and set Guest Driver Alerts. Digital Key* is available on XLE and Limited grades, enabling smartphone-based access to lock/unlock doors and remote start.
* 4G network dependent.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Advanced Safety Features Standard
The 2025 Toyota Prius comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies. TSS 3.0 includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Designed to detect vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists and provide warnings and automatic emergency braking to help prevent or mitigate collisions.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Adaptive cruise control that maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Alerts you if you begin to drift out of your lane and can provide gentle steering assistance to help you stay centered.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Works with DRCC to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): Recognizes road signs such as speed limits and displays them on the digital gauge cluster.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Provides gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks like maintaining distance and navigating curves.
Beyond TSS 3.0, the Prius offers additional standard and available safety and convenience features, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Safe Exit Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, Panoramic View Monitor (available on Limited), and Advanced Park (available on Limited).
2025 Prius Grade Walk: Choosing the Right Prius for You
The 2025 Toyota Prius is available in four well-equipped grades, each offering a compelling combination of features and value. All grades come standard with Toyota Audio Multimedia with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
Key LE grade features:
- 17-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers
- 6-way adjustable fabric-trimmed front seats
- SofTex®-trimmed steering wheel
- Single-zone climate control
- Six USB-C ports
- Electronic Parking Brake
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
XLE grade adds to LE features:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- 8-way adjustable SofTex®-trimmed front seats
- SofTex®-trimmed heated tilt/telescopic steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- Qi-compatible wireless charger
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Nightshade grade, based on XLE, uniquely features:
- 19-inch alloy wheels with black finish
- Black bumper trim, shark fin antenna, and blackout badging
- Black doorsills
- Black 8-way adjustable SofTex®-trimmed front seats with grey stitching
- Carbon fiber detail on the dashboard
Limited grade adds to XLE features:
- Power liftback
- Driver’s seat with memory function
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- 8-speaker JBL® Premium Audio with 12.3-inch touchscreen
The Limited grade also offers an available Limited Premium Package with Advanced Park and a Panoramic View Monitor.
Pricing and Warranty
The 2025 Toyota Prius LE starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $28,350, excluding dealer processing and handling.
Toyota provides a comprehensive warranty, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and corrosion coverage with no mileage limitation. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery for 10 years/150,000 miles. ToyotaCare, a complimentary maintenance plan covering factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years with unlimited mileage, is also included.
The 2025 Toyota Prius, especially with the new Nightshade grade, continues to set the standard for hybrid vehicles, offering a compelling blend of style, efficiency, technology, and safety. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, bold design, or advanced features, the new Toyota Prius lineup has a model to meet your needs.
