2025 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid

For nearly a decade, Toyota used the "Prime" name to denote the plug-in version of the Prius. That changes for 2025; going forward, the Prius PHEV will simply be known as the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid. The badge on the back is really the only thing that changes, however — the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is otherwise the exact same car as last year's Prime. That means this PHEV delivers up to 44 miles of all-electric driving range before operating like a regular hybrid when the battery runs low. So if you're able to charge it frequently, it can essentially run like an electric vehicle with a gasoline backup, making it a great transition car for folks who aren't ready to go all-in on an EV.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid has a much larger battery pack than the regular Prius, allowing owners to recharge the battery directly by using a charging cord. That gives this PHEV an all-electric driving range of up to 44 miles before the gas engine kicks on. If you have an easily accessible charger and your daily commute is less than the Prius PHEV's electric range, you can almost say goodbye to gas stations. But if you can't charge regularly, it's best to stick with the regular Prius since the weight of the Plug-in Hybrid's larger battery equates to reduced fuel economy when it's using the gas engine.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the only plug-in hybrid in its class. Its closest rival is the Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid, a small crossover SUV. The Prius is more powerful and has a longer all-electric range, but the similarly priced Niro provides more passenger room and similar fuel economy as the Prius' top trim levels when running as a hybrid. The Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (also formerly called Prime) are larger but pricier and less efficient alternatives.