Most people interested in fuel-efficient cars likely know about the Toyota Prius. But fewer people know about its plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) counterpart, the Toyota Prius Prime. Nevertheless, a decade after its introduction, the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime is gaining a following thanks to its range of trim levels, exceptional fuel economy, and budget-friendly price.

Overview of the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime

The 2022 Toyota Prius Prime comes in three trim levels, LE, XLE, and Limited. All three pack a 121-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 105 lb-ft of torque delivered to a front-wheel drive (FWD) system through an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (ECVT). While the 2022 Prius Prime’s hybrid drivetrain earns an EPA-estimated 54 mpg combined, its 25-mile electric-only EV Mode boosts its fuel efficiency to 133 MPGe. 

Every 2022 Toyota Prius Prime exterior also includes folding, heated side mirrors with power adjustment, color-keyed outside door handles, active grille shutters, 15-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, and an illuminated charge port with a charging indicator light. 

In addition, you’ll find dual sun visors with extenders and illuminated vanity mirrors, a digital instrument cluster, a climate control system, an integrated backup camera, heated front seats, power windows with automatic up and down, and power door locks. 

Driver-assist features include hands-free Bluetooth phone controls, full speed range dynamic radar cruise control, a tire pressure monitoring system, hill-start assist control, a vehicle proximity notification system, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0). 

How much does the base-model 2022 Toyota Prius Prime LE cost?

Toyota advertises the 2022 Prius Prime LE at $28,770 but adds $1,195 for delivery, processing, and handling for a total MSRP of $29,965. The 2022 Prius Prime LE comes with everything mentioned above, but the only upgrades consist of rooftop accessories from Yakima ranging in price from $239 to $719. 

You could lease a 2022 Prius Prime LE for $419 per month over 36 months with $2,419 due at signing with a 12,000 annual mileage allowance. Well-qualified buyers could finance for 72 months with no money down for under $550 monthly. 

Is a fully loaded 2022 Toyota Prius Prime Limited worth considering?

The 2022 Prius Prime Limited MSRP starts at $34,550 on Toyota’s website with the same PHEV drivetrain, fuel economy, $1,195 for delivery, processing, and handling fee, and lack of available options for a total price of $35,745. That’s $5,780 more than the base model, so let’s list the extra features the range-topping Limited trim provides:

• LED fog lights
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Smart charging cable lock
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
• Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar
• Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging
• Heavy sliding tonneau cargo cover
• Heated steering wheel
• Predicted Efficient Drive when using the integrated navigation
• 11.6-inch touchscreen with split-screen display and navigation
• Intelligent Clearance Sonar with parking assist
• Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
• Color head-up Display

Experts recommend the mid-range 2022 Toyota Prius Prime XLE

Autotrader, Edmunds, and Car and Driver agree that the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime XLE provides the best value. It costs $31,745 after Toyota’s delivery, processing, and handling fee. The XLE has many upgrades over the LE while only coming up short of the Limited by not including the following:

• LED fog lights
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
• Heavy sliding tonneau cargo cover
• Heated steering wheel
• Intelligent Clearance Sonar with parking assist
• Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
• Color head-up display

Regardless of trim level, the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime’s stylish good looks, excellent fuel economy, 20-mile EV range, and budget-friendly price make it an excellent value at every level.