The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with hybrid technology, and the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime took this legacy a step further as a plug-in hybrid model. Building on the foundation of fuel efficiency and eco-consciousness, the Prius Prime offered enhanced electric driving capabilities and a bold, futuristic design. As experts at Miller Toyota, we’ve delved into the specifics of this vehicle to provide you with a comprehensive review, perfect for those considering a pre-owned option or simply wanting to learn more about this innovative car. Our aim is to give you an in-depth look that surpasses typical reviews, focusing on the aspects that matter most to drivers in today’s market.
Step Inside the Future: The 2017 Prius Prime Interior
The interior of the 2017 Prius Prime makes a striking first impression. Immediately noticeable is the clean and contemporary design, reminiscent of high-tech vehicles. The seats offer a comfortable and premium feel, often presented in a light, futuristic color scheme that enhances the cabin’s airy ambiance. The centerpiece of the dashboard is the large 11.6-inch HD multimedia touchscreen, dominating the center console and controlling many of the car’s functions. Above this, a 4.2-inch multi-information display positioned near the windshield acts as the main instrument cluster, providing essential driving information like speed and energy usage.
The gear selector, a joystick-like lever, adds to the unique, almost playful, feel of the interior. While unconventional, its operation is intuitive. The ‘Park’ function, activated by a separate button, becomes easily familiar with use. A standout feature for the driver is the color heads-up display projected onto the windshield. This minimizes the need to take your eyes off the road to check speed or other critical data. Adjacent to the digital speedometer on the main instrument cluster, a visual graphic illustrates the interplay between the gasoline engine and electric motors, providing real-time feedback on the hybrid system’s operation. The large central touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly, especially for those accustomed to tablets or smartphones. Adding to the modern convenience is the Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, allowing for effortless charging of compatible devices while driving.
Exterior Styling: Bold and Distinctive
The exterior of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime is undeniably polarizing. Its design has generated strong reactions, being described as a “love it or hate it” aesthetic. However, its radical styling is part of its appeal, especially when showcased in vibrant colors like Blue Magnetism (teal). This color accentuates the vehicle’s sharp lines, curves, and edges, giving it a very contemporary and forward-thinking appearance. The unique silhouette, with its bubble-top cabin, sharply defined rear fenders, and wedge-shaped front end, evokes futuristic designs.
Side view of a blue 2017 Toyota Prius Prime highlighting its aerodynamic and distinctive styling
The distinctive styling of the Prius Prime often sparks conversation. Owners may find themselves frequently asked about fuel economy, charging requirements, and pricing, reflecting the car’s eye-catching design and hybrid nature. Functionally, the rear of the Prius Prime incorporates aerodynamic elements. The pointed hatchback edge acts as a spoiler, and the wave-like design of the rear window contributes to improved airflow and reduced drag. To truly appreciate the design of the 2017 Prius Prime, opting for a brighter, more expressive color is recommended. Darker shades like black or grey can obscure the vehicle’s sculpted lines, diminishing its visual impact and making it appear less distinctive. Toyota’s limited color palette for the Prius Prime, with a predominance of grey and white variations, might be considered a missed opportunity to fully showcase its bold design.
Performance and Specifications of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime
Under the hood, the 2017 Prius Prime combines a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors and an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined system output is rated at 121 horsepower. In EV mode, the Prius Prime offers an EPA-estimated electric driving range of 25 miles. Real-world range can vary based on driving style and conditions. As a plug-in hybrid, recharging the battery is straightforward. Using the included charging cable and a standard 120V household outlet, a full charge takes approximately 5.5 hours. This time reduces to about 2 hours with a 240V Level 2 charger, which is recommended for quicker replenishment of the battery.
Charging port detail of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime, emphasizing its plug-in hybrid capability
Performance-wise, the 2017 Prius Prime is not designed for outright speed, but it offers adequate acceleration for daily driving. The 0-60 mph time is achieved in approximately 11 seconds. The Prius Prime features multiple driving modes to optimize efficiency and performance. These include:
- EV (Electric Vehicle) Mode: Prioritizes electric driving until the battery is depleted.
- HV (Hybrid Vehicle) Mode: Operates as a traditional hybrid, automatically switching between electric and gasoline power.
- EV Auto Mode: Intelligently manages the blend of electric and gasoline power for maximum efficiency based on driving conditions.
Within EV mode, drivers can further select between ECO, NORMAL, and PWR (Power) modes. PWR mode provides the most responsive acceleration, utilizing the combined power of the electric motors and gasoline engine for quicker bursts of speed. Even in PWR mode, the engine noise remains subdued, described as a subtle hum, but the improved acceleration can be surprisingly engaging. An innovative feature is the Predictive Efficient Drive system. This system learns frequently driven routes and driving habits to provide real-time recommendations on braking and acceleration, aiming to maximize fuel efficiency. The Prius Prime also provides driver feedback through an efficiency score (0-100), encouraging more economical driving habits.
Fuel economy is a key strength of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime. Toyota estimates an average of 54 mpg in hybrid mode. Real-world testing often yields figures in this range, though actual mileage will depend on driving conditions and usage of EV mode. The small fuel tank, combined with excellent fuel efficiency, means fill-ups are infrequent and economical. The starting MSRP for the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime was around $26,000, with higher trim levels reaching approximately $36,000. Compared to other plug-in hybrids in its class, the Prius Prime offered compelling value.
Final Verdict: The 2017 Toyota Prius Prime – A Smart Choice
While the carbon fiber hatchback of the 2017 Prius Prime is lightweight, its manual operation and wide opening arc might be minor drawbacks for some users. An automatic closing mechanism would have been a welcome addition. However, these are minor points in an otherwise well-rounded and impressive vehicle.
Rear view of the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime hatchback, highlighting its carbon fiber construction
The 2017 Toyota Prius Prime successfully blends fuel efficiency, modern technology, and distinctive styling into a compelling package. Its comfortable ride, futuristic interior, and surprising driving dynamics make it a standout in the hybrid and plug-in hybrid market. The low center of gravity and rear double-wishbone suspension contribute to stable and confident handling. For drivers seeking an efficient, stylish, and technologically advanced vehicle for daily use, the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime is an excellent option. It represents a significant step forward in hybrid technology and offers a glimpse into the future of driving.
To explore our current inventory of Toyota Prius models and other fuel-efficient vehicles, visit MillerToyota.net.
