PLANO, Texas (Jan. 7, 2025) – The Toyota Prius is revving up its appeal with the introduction of a stylish new Nightshade grade for the 2025 model year. Building upon the well-equipped XLE trim, the Nightshade edition injects a dose of dark sophistication with 19-inch black-finished alloy wheels, black exterior badging, a black shark fin antenna, sleek black front door handles, and striking black bumper trim. Adding further exclusivity, the Nightshade grade debuts with a brand-new exterior color option: Karashi, a unique shade to complement its moody aesthetic. Alongside Karashi, the Nightshade will also be available in Midnight Black Metallic and the premium Wind Chill Pearl.
The 2025 Toyota Prius lineup expands to four distinct grades: the LE, XLE, Nightshade, and Limited, offering a range of options to suit diverse preferences. Powering the entire 2025 Prius family is the advanced fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5) paired with a responsive 2.0L engine. This combination delivers an impressive 194 net-combined horsepower in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models and up to 196 net-combined horsepower in models equipped with Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Efficiency remains a hallmark of the Prius, boasting an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of up to 57 MPG. For those seeking enhanced all-weather capability, the available e-AWD system provides added traction and still achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 54 MPG combined rating.
Buyers of the 2025 Prius will have a palette of seven exterior colors to choose from, including Wind Chill Pearl, Cutting Edge, Guardian Gray, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red, Reservoir Blue, and the Nightshade-exclusive Karashi. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the 2025 Toyota Prius LE grade will start at $28,350, excluding Dealer Processing and Handling fees.
Fifth Generation Toyota Hybrid System: Efficiency and Performance
The 2025 Toyota Prius leverages the cutting-edge fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), seamlessly integrating a M20A-FXS 2.0L inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with two motor-generators through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission. A key component is the compact, high-output/low-loss drive motor within the transaxle/motor assembly, utilizing a six-magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration to optimize drive functionality.
The engine and the larger electric motor (MG2) work in tandem to deliver responsive performance, while exceptional energy efficiency is achieved through the utilization of both electric motors (MG1 and MG2) to charge the advanced lithium-ion battery. This sophisticated system results in an engaging driving experience, producing 194 combined hybrid system horsepower and an estimated 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 7.2 seconds for FWD models of the 2025 Toyota Prius.
Further enhancing the fuel efficiency of the Toyota Prius 2025 is the Electronically Controlled Brake system. This intelligent system harmonizes regenerative braking from the electric motors with hydraulic braking to ensure optimal stopping power. By proactively maximizing the recovery of electrical energy through regenerative braking, this cooperative control system significantly contributes to maximizing fuel economy in the Prius.
The 2025 Prius also offers an EV mode, allowing for short-distance pure electric vehicle operation under certain conditions, such as sufficient battery charge and vehicle speed. This mode is particularly useful in scenarios like navigating parking lots or indoor garages. To enhance pedestrian safety when operating in EV mode, the Prius is equipped with a Vehicle Proximity Notification feature to alert pedestrians of the vehicle’s presence.
Drivers can customize their driving experience in the 2025 Toyota Prius with standard selectable Drive modes, accessible at the push of a button:
- NORMAL: Balances fuel economy and acceleration for everyday driving. Accelerator response is linear to pedal input.
- ECO: Prioritizes fuel efficiency by moderating power output in response to light to moderate accelerator pedal input.
- SPORT: Emphasizes dynamic performance and acceleration for a more engaging driving experience.
Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive for Enhanced Confidence
For drivers seeking enhanced all-weather capability, the 2025 Toyota Prius offers an available Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system across all grades. This system provides added traction when needed, employing a dedicated motor to drive the rear wheels. This ensures stable driving performance during initial acceleration, on slippery surfaces, and enhances cornering stability.
AWD-equipped Toyota Prius 2025 models utilize a separate rear-mounted electric motor that engages the rear wheels as required. This AWD configuration boosts the combined system horsepower to 196 and slightly improves the estimated 0-60 mph time to 7.0 seconds.
The high-output IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) motor driving the rear wheels is designed to be compact, effectively reducing wheel spin in low-traction situations and improving stability during turns. The system operates seamlessly by preemptively distributing driving force to the rear wheels to minimize front wheel slip during initial acceleration. It also engages the rear motor in response to front wheel slippage and enhances agility in cornering by mitigating understeer.
The AWD system in the Toyota Prius 2025 precisely manages front-rear torque distribution based on driving conditions. Data from wheel speed sensors and G-force sensors is processed by the vehicle’s computer and relayed to the rear motor as electrical signals to control rear wheel torque. This sophisticated system ensures optimal front-rear torque distribution based on vehicle speed and accelerator input, providing enhanced stability in various driving scenarios.
Smart Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Toyota Prius is equipped with advanced technology features, starting with an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia Screen on LE and XLE grades. Nightshade and Limited grades elevate the experience with a larger 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia screen as standard. This system offers a wide array of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including convenient Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Users can interact intuitively with the system through touch and voice activation controls. With the available Drive Connect* Connected Service, drivers and passengers gain access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. The Intelligent Assistant is activated with simple phrases like “Hey Toyota,” enabling voice commands for directions, Points of Interest (POI) searches, audio adjustments, cabin temperature control, and more. Cloud Navigation, the optional onboard navigation solution, leverages cloud data to provide the latest map, traffic, and routing information. POI searches are powered by Google Points-of-Interest data, ensuring up-to-date search capabilities. Destination Assist provides 24/7 access to live agents for assistance in locating destinations.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system supports dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity and standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility for seamless smartphone integration.
For audiophiles, the Prius offers an optional JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers. Standard on the Limited grade, this system utilizes Clari-Fi® technology to revitalize compressed digital music formats, enhancing the overall audio experience. A six-speaker audio system is standard on LE and XLE grades.
The 2025 Toyota Prius is equipped to handle all device charging needs with six USB-C ports throughout the cabin. Front passengers have access to two Type-C USB ports at the base of the center stack and two additional Type-C USB ports within the center console. Rear passengers benefit from two Type-C USB ports conveniently located at the rear of the center console.
Expanding connectivity further, the Prius offers a standard Wi-Fi Connect* 1-month or up to 3 GB trial, providing 4G connectivity for up to five devices, effectively turning the Prius into an AT&T Hotspot. Complementing its robust audio playback capabilities, including HD Radio®, USB data, and a SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect enables the new Integrated Streaming feature. This allows customers to link their personal Apple Music® and Amazon Music® subscriptions for seamless onboard control.
Each Toyota Prius 2025 also includes a Safety Connect* and Service Connect* trial. Safety Connect offers an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Locator for up to 10 years. Service Connect provides Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts, and reminders, also with up to a 10-year trial.
The Toyota mobile application keeps users connected to their Prius with Remote Connect* capabilities, offered with a one-year trial on all grades. Users can remotely activate headlights, lock/unlock doors, and start the vehicle. They can also monitor vehicle status, receive reminder notifications, and set Guest Driver Alerts. Digital Key* is available with Remote Connect for XLE and Limited Grades, enabling smartphone-based locking/unlocking, remote start, and more.
* 4G network dependent.
Advanced Safety and Convenience Features
The Toyota Prius 2025 prioritizes safety with standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This comprehensive suite includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Designed to detect vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorcyclists, providing audible/visual warnings and automatic emergency braking in certain situations to help prevent or mitigate frontal collisions.
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): An adaptive cruise control system operational above 20 mph, maintaining a preset distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Detects lane markings or road edges above 30 mph, providing warnings for unintended lane departures. Steering Assist can provide gentle corrective steering to help maintain lane position if no driver action is detected.
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Designed to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane, providing steering assistance when DRCC is active.
- Road Sign Assist (RSA): Utilizes the forward-facing camera to recognize road signs like speed limits, stop signs, and yield signs, displaying sign information on the Digital Gauge Cluster.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on detecting oncoming headlights and preceding taillights.
- Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to provide gentle braking and/or steering support for tasks like maintaining distance from preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, and gentle braking into curves, when system operating conditions are met.
For detailed information on Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, please visit Toyota.com/safety-sense.
The 2025 Toyota Prius also offers a wealth of convenience features. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard across all grades. Safe Exit Alert, also standard, detects approaching vehicles and bicycles from the rear, alerting occupants when exiting to help prevent door collisions. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is available on all grades. The Limited grade offers an available Panoramic View Monitor, providing a live, rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle. Advanced Park, available exclusively on the Limited grade, is a hands-free system designed to assist with parallel parking and backing into parking spaces.
2025 Prius Grade Walk: Trim Levels and Features
The 2025 Toyota Prius is available in four distinct grades, each offering a compelling set of features. Standard features across all grades include Toyota Audio Multimedia with an 8-inch touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, and the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety technologies.
Key LE grade features:
- 17-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers
- 6-way adjustable fabric-trimmed front seats in black or grey
- SofTex®-trimmed steering wheel
- Single-zone automatic climate control
- Six USB-C ports
- Electronic Parking Brake
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
The XLE grade builds upon the LE grade, adding:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- 8-way adjustable SofTex®-trimmed front seats
- SofTex®-trimmed heated tilt/telescopic steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- Qi-compatible wireless charging pad
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
The Nightshade grade, based on the XLE, features unique styling elements:
- 19-inch alloy wheels with a black finish
- Black bumper trim
- Black shark fin antenna
- Blackout exterior badging
- Black doorsills
- Black 8-way adjustable SofTex®-trimmed front seats with grey stitching
- Carbon fiber detail on the dashboard
The Limited grade represents the pinnacle of the Prius lineup, including XLE features plus:
- Power liftback
- Driver’s seat with memory function
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- 8-speaker JBL® Premium Audio system
- Toyota Audio Multimedia with a 12.3-inch touchscreen
The Limited grade also offers an optional Limited Premium Package, which includes Advanced Park and a Panoramic View Monitor for enhanced convenience and parking assistance.
Pricing and Warranty
Toyota Limited Warranty
The Toyota Prius 2025 is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty. A 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty covers all components except normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion protection is provided for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Toyota’s commitment to hybrid technology is evident in the Hybrid System Warranty, covering all Hybrid Electric Vehicle components for 8 years or 100,000 miles. Furthermore, the hybrid battery warranty extends to 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Prius also includes ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, along with 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, with no mileage limit.
