Toyota Prius

{{Short description|Hybrid compact car produced by Toyota}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2024}} {{Use British English |date=April 2022}} {{Infobox automobile | name = Toyota Prius | image = 2024 Toyota Prius Excel PHEV - 1987cc 2.0 (225PS) Plug-in Hybrid - Silver Metallic - 10-2024, Front Quarter.jpg | caption = Fifth generation Prius (XW60) | manufacturer = [[Toyota]] | production = December 1997 – present | model_years = 2001–present (US) | class = {{ubl | [[Subcompact]]/[[supermini]] ([[b-segment|B]]) (1997–2003) |[[Compact car|Compact]]/[[small family car]] ([[c-segment|C]]) (2003–present) }} | body_style = {{unbulleted list | 4-door [[Sedan (automobile)|saloon]] (1997–2003) | 5-door [[liftback]] (2003–present) }} | layout = {{unbulleted list | [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive]] | [[Front-engine, four-wheel-drive]] ([[E-Four]]) }} | sp = uk }}

{{timeline of release years | compressempty = yes | range1 = 1997 - | range1_color = Blue | 1997 = [[Toyota Prius (XW10)|XW10]] | 2003 = [[Toyota Prius (XW20)|XW20]] | 2009 = [[Toyota Prius (XW30)|XW30]] | 2011 = [[Toyota Prius V|Prius V]] | 2011b = [[Toyota Prius C|Prius C]] | 2012 = [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (XW30)|Plug-in XW30]] | 2015 = [[Toyota Prius (XW50)|XW50]] | 2016 = [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (XW50)|Plug-in XW50]] | 2022 = [[Toyota Prius (XW60)|XW60]] | 2023 = [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (XW60)|Plug-in XW60]] }}

The {{nihongo|'''Toyota Prius''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|p|r|iː|ə|s}} {{respell|PREE|əss}})|トヨタ・プリウス|Toyota Puriusu|lead=yes}} is a car produced by [[Toyota]] since 1997 over five generations. The Prius has a [[Hybrid vehicle drivetrain|hybrid drivetrain]], called [[Hybrid Synergy Drive]], which combines an [[internal combustion engine]] and an [[electric motor]]. Initially offered as a [[subcompact car|subcompact]] four-door [[Sedan (automobile)|saloon]], it has been produced only as a [[compact car|compact]] five-door [[liftback]] since 2003.

The Prius was developed by Toyota to be the "car for the 21st century";<ref>{{Cite web |author= |date=11 December 2012 |title=15 years of the Toyota Prius |url=https://mag.toyota.co.uk/15-years-of-the-toyota-prius/ |access-date=29 August 2023 |website=Toyota UK Magazine |language=en-GB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210509040302/https://mag.toyota.co.uk/15-years-of-the-toyota-prius/ |archive-date=9 May 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Secret story of the first Prius: New century, new car |url=https://asia.nikkei.com/NAR/Articles/Secret-story-of-the-first-Prius-New-century-new-car |access-date=29 August 2023 |website=Nikkei Asia |language=en-GB}}</ref> it was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle,<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Clifford |first=Joe |date=10 February 2015 |title=History of the Toyota Prius |url=http://blog.toyota.co.uk/history-toyota-prius |access-date=28 September 2018 |website=Toyota Blog |location=UK |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223113243/http://blog.toyota.co.uk/history-toyota-prius |archive-date=23 February 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> first going on sale in Japan in 1997 at [[Toyota dealerships (Japan)|all four Toyota Japan dealership chains]],<ref name=":0" /> and subsequently introduced worldwide in 2000.<ref name="TMC4mi">{{cite web |date=22 May 2012 |title=Worldwide sales of Toyota Motor hybrids top 4M units; Prius family accounts for almost 72% |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/05/tmc-20120522.html |access-date=22 May 2012 |publisher=Green Car Congress}}</ref>

In 2011, Toyota expanded the Prius family to include the [[Toyota Prius V|Prius v]] (also known as the Prius α, and Prius+ in several markets), an [[Multi-purpose vehicle|MPV]], and the [[Toyota Prius C|Prius c]] (also known as the [[Toyota Aqua|Aqua]]), a subcompact hatchback. The production version of the [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid|Prius plug-in hybrid]] was released in 2012. The second generation of the plug-in variant, the Prius Prime, was released in the U.S. in November 2016.<ref name="1stPriusPrime" /> The Prius family totaled global cumulative sales of 6.1 million units in January 2017, representing 61% of the 10 million hybrids sold worldwide by Toyota since 1997.<ref name="TMC10miHEVs" /> Toyota sells the Prius in over 90 markets, with Japan and the United States being its largest markets.<ref name="TMC9miHEVs" />

== Etymology and terminology == {{Anchor|English plural vote}}[[wikt:prius|Prius]] is a [[Latin]] word meaning "first", "original", "superior" or "to go before".<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://toyotanews.pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=1626 |title=Toyota Reveals All-New Prius |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=12 January 2009 |access-date=19 November 2016}}</ref>

In February 2011, Toyota USA asked the US public to decide on what the most proper [[English plural|plural]] form of Prius should be, with choices including Prien, Prii, Prium, Prius, or Priuses.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.com/upcoming-vehicles/prius-family/ |title=Toyota Prius Family |publisher=[[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]] |access-date=5 February 2011 |archive-date=5 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205185508/http://www.toyota.com/upcoming-vehicles/prius-family/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{YouTube|id=nUor4gdFoyg|title=Prius Goes Plural - When One Becomes More}}</ref> The company announced on 20 February that "Prii" was the most popular choice, and the new official plural designation in the US.<ref name=plural-usatoday>{{cite news |last=Woodyard |first=Chris |title=Voters decide Toyota Prii is now official plural for Prius |url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/02/toyota-prius-prii-prium-priuses-plural-james-lipton/1 |access-date=8 February 2012 |newspaper=[[USA Today]] |date=20 February 2011}}</ref>

In Latin ''prius'' is the neuter singular of the comparative form (''prior'', ''prior'', ''prius'') of an adjective with only comparative and superlative (the superlative being ''primus'', ''prima'', ''primum''). As with all neuter words, the [[Latin declension#Comparative and superlative forms of adjectives|Latin plural]] is ''priora'', but that brand name was used by the ''[[Lada Priora]]'' in 2007. Despite the "official" plural form used by Toyota USA, "Priuses" is widely used in English.<ref>Vieira da Rosa, Aldo. [https://books.google.com/books?id=7LX3yrVEgCMC&dq=toyota+%22priuses%22+%22prii%22&pg=PA431 Fundamentals of Renewable Energy Processes.] Academic Press, 2012. p.431.</ref>

Beginning in September 2011, Toyota USA began using the following names to differentiate the original Prius from some newer members of the Prius family: the standard Prius became the Prius Liftback, the [[Toyota Prius V|Prius v]] (known as the Prius α in Japan, and Prius + in Europe), the [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid|Prius Plug-in Hybrid]], and the [[Toyota Prius C|Prius c]] (called Toyota Aqua in Japan).<ref name=Prius2012>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/toyota-revises-2012-prius-hybrid-tweak/ |title=Toyota revises 2012 Prius with minor tweaks inside and out |first=Eric |last=Loveday |publisher=AutoblogGreen |date=16 September 2011 |access-date=17 September 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://pressroom.toyota.com/releases/toyota+introduces+2012+prius+plug-in+hybrid.htm |title=Toyota Introduces 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid |publisher=[[Toyota]] |date=16 September 2011 |access-date=17 September 2011 |archive-date=14 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014072355/http://pressroom.toyota.com/releases/toyota+introduces+2012+prius+plug-in+hybrid.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== First generation (XW10; 1997) ==  {{main|Toyota Prius (XW10)}} [[File:1998 Toyota Prius NHW10 Silver Strara Metallic (1) (cropped).jpg|thumb|Toyota Prius (NHW10, first generation)]]

=== NHW10 (1997–2000) ===

In 1995, Toyota debuted a hybrid concept car at the [[Tokyo Motor Show#1995|Tokyo Motor Show]], with testing following a year later.<ref name="toyoland-chronology">{{cite web |url=http://www.toyoland.com/prius/chronology.html |title=Toyota Prius Chronological History |access-date=6 November 2009}}</ref> The first Prius, model NHW10, went on sale on 10 December 1997.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2006/03/06/8370702/index.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060314162106/http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2006/03/06/8370702/index.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 March 2006 |title=The Birth of the Prius |first=Alex |last=Taylor |work=Fortune |location=US |date=24 February 2006 |access-date=23 March 2018}}</ref><ref name=bwhy/> The first-generation Prius (NHW10) was available only in Japan.<ref name="CleanGreenCar">[https://web.archive.org/web/20080225232329/http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-history Prius Model History], Clean Green Car Company. Retrieved 19 December 2007.</ref>

The first-generation Prius, at its launch, became the world's first mass-produced petrol-electric hybrid car. At its introduction in 1997, it won the [[Car of the Year Japan]] Award, and in 1998, it won the [[RJC Car of the Year|Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference Car of the Year]] award in Japan.

Production commenced in December 1997 at the [[Toyota Takaoka Assembly Plant|Takaoka plant]] in [[Toyota, Aichi]], ending in February 2000 after cumulative production of 37,425 vehicles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/production/production/japan/general_status/takaoka.html |title=Takaoka Plant |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |year=2012 |access-date=14 February 2014}}</ref>

The NHW10 Prius styling originated from California designers, who were selected over competing designs from other Toyota design studios.<ref name=bwhy>{{cite web |last1=Thornton |first1=Emily |last2=Naughton |first2=Keith |last3=Woodruff |first3=David |date=15 December 1997 |url=http://www.businessweek.com/archives/1997/b3557013.arc.htm |title=Japan's hybrid cars |work=[[BusinessWeek]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628194634/http://www.businessweek.com/archives/1997/b3557013.arc.htm |archive-date=28 June 2011}}</ref>

=== NHW11 (2000–2003) ===  [[File:1st-Toyota-Prius.jpg|thumb|Toyota Prius (NHW11, first generation)]]

The Prius NHW11 (sometimes referred to as "Generation II"<ref name="CleanGreenCar" />) was the first Prius sold by Toyota outside of Japan, with sales in limited numbers beginning in the year 2000 in Asia, America, Europe and Australia.<ref name="CleanGreenCar" /><ref>{{cite web |title=The complete history of the Toyota Prius in 89 words |work=Toyota UK |url=http://blog.toyota.co.uk/complete-history-toyota-prius-89-words |publisher=Toyota |location=UK |date=22 January 2015 |access-date=11 February 2015}}</ref> In the United States, the Prius was marketed between the smaller [[Toyota Corolla|Corolla]] and the larger [[Toyota Camry|Camry]], with a published retail price of {{USD|19,995|2000|round=-2}}.<ref>[http://www.internetautoguide.com/reviews/09-int/2001/toyota/prius/lineup.html 2001 Toyota Prius Lineup] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203424/http://www.internetautoguide.com/reviews/09-int/2001/toyota/prius/lineup.html |date=29 October 2013}}, Internet Autoguide. Retrieved 20 December 2007.</ref> European sales began in September 2000.<ref>Tsukada, M., [http://www2.aia.pref.aichi.jp/voice/no13/13_cutting_edge.html Aichi's Artisanship in the Auto Industry] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20121219082117/http://www2.aia.pref.aichi.jp/voice/no13/13_cutting_edge.html |date=19 December 2012}}, Aichi Voice (Cutting Edge).</ref> The official launch of the Prius in Australia occurred at the October 2001 [[Sydney Motor Show]],<ref>[http://www.caradvice.com.au/1697/more-toyota-prius-coming-to-australia/ More Toyota Priuses Coming to Australia], Australian Car Advice, 1 March 2007. Retrieved 20 December 2007.</ref> although sales were slow until the NHW20 (XW20) model arrived. Toyota sold about 123,000 first-generation Priuses.<ref name="Prius3mi">{{cite web |date=3 July 2013 |title=Worldwide Prius sales top 3-million mark; Prius family sales at 3.4 million |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/07/prius-20130703.html |access-date=3 July 2013 |publisher=Green Car Congress |location=Europe}}</ref>

Production of the NHW11 model commenced in May 2000 at the [[Motomachi plant]] in [[Toyota, Aichi]], and continued until June 2003 after 33,411 NHW11 vehicles had been produced.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/production/production/japan/general_status/motomachi.html |title=Motomachi Plant |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |year=2012 |access-date=14 February 2014}}</ref> The vehicle was the second mass-produced hybrid on the American market, after the two-seat [[Honda Insight]].<ref name="easy">{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/11/19/automobiles/behind-the-wheel-toyota-prius-it-s-easier-to-be-green.html?pagewanted=all |title=Behind the Wheel:Toyota Prius-It's Easier to Be Green |first=Andrew |last=Pollack |work=The New York Times |date=19 November 2000 |access-date=30 November 2011}}</ref>

The NHW11 Prius became more powerful partly to satisfy the higher speeds and longer distances that Americans drive.<ref>Russ, C., [http://www.theautochannel.com/vehicles/new/reviews/2001/russ0041.html Toyota Prius (2001)], The Auto Channel. Retrieved 9 March 2010.</ref> [[Electric power steering]] was standard equipment.<ref>2001 Toyota Prius Repair Manual, Volume 2, Pub. No. RM778U2</ref> While the larger Prius could seat five, its battery pack restricted cargo space. The Prius was offered in the US in three trim packages: Standard, Base, and Touring. The [[US EPA]] (CARB) classified the car with an air pollution score of 3 out of 10 as an [[Ultra Low Emission Vehicle]] (ULEV).<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110628183256/http://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/Detailsresult.do?vehicle_ID=7159 EPA Green Vehicle Guide].</ref> Prius owners were eligible for up to a {{USD|2,000}} federal tax deduction from their gross income.<ref name=easy/> Toyota executives stated that with the Prius NHW10 model, the company had been losing money on each Prius sold, and with the NHW11 it was now breaking even.<ref name=easy/>

== Second generation (XW20; 2003) ==  {{main|Toyota Prius (XW20)}} [[File:2008 Toyota Prius (NHW20R) liftback (2012-06-24).jpg|thumb|right|Toyota Prius (second generation)]]

Presented at the [[New York International Auto Show#2003|April 2003 New York International Auto Show]], for the 2004 US model year, the NHW20 Prius was a complete redesign. It became a compact liftback, sized between the [[Toyota Corolla|Corolla]] and the [[Toyota Camry|Camry]], with redistributed mechanical and interior space significantly increasing rear-seat legroom and luggage room. The second-generation Prius is more environmentally friendly than the previous model (according to the EPA), and is {{convert|6|in|mm}} longer than the previous version.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://info.ornl.gov/sites/publications/files/Pub26762.pdf |title=Evaluation of the 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Synergy Drive System |first=Mitch |last=Olszewski |publisher=Department of Energy |location=US |date=March 2011 |access-date=24 February 2019}}</ref><ref>[http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/interior.html Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100817135011/http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/interior.html |date=17 August 2010 }}, ''Motor Trend''. Retrieved 21 December 2007.</ref> Its more aerodynamic [[Kammback]] body balances length and wind resistance, resulting in a {{Cd|0.26|link=car|long=yes}}.<ref name="mtm">{{cite web |title=Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius |work=MotorTrend Magazine |publisher=Source Interlink Media |url=http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win |access-date=30 May 2008 |archive-date=30 April 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430214205/http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The development effort, led by chief engineer [[Shigeyuki Hori]], led to 530 patents for the vehicle.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.time.com/time/2004/innovators/200403/story.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040320005202/http://www.time.com/time/2004/innovators/200403/story.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=20 March 2004 |title=Innovators: Shigeyuki Hori |magazine=Time |access-date=10 January 2010 |date=3 August 2004}}</ref>

Production commenced in August 2003 at the [[Tsutsumi plant]] in [[Toyota, Aichi]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/production/production/japan/general_status/tsutsumi.html |title=Tsutsumi Plant |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |year=2012 |access-date=14 February 2014}}</ref> supplemented in October 2004 with the [[Fujimatsu plant]] at [[Kariya, Aichi]].<ref name = "Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.">{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/history_of_toyota/75years/data/automotive_business/production/production/japan/general_status/toyota_auto_body.html |title=Affiliates (Toyota {{sic |hide=y|wholly|-}}owned subsidiaries)-Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd. | publisher = Toyota Motor Corporation | year = 2012 | access-date=14 February 2014}}</ref>

The Prius uses an all-electric A/C compressor for cooling, an industry first.<ref>Bowden, R. (2004), [http://cars.about.com/cs/testdrives/fr/prius_tst.htm 2004 Toyota Prius] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717110628/http://cars.about.com/cs/testdrives/fr/prius_tst.htm |date=17 July 2011 }}, About. Retrieved 21 December 2007.</ref> Combined with a smaller and lighter [[NiMH]] battery, the XW20 is more powerful and more efficient than the XW10.<ref>[http://www.cartalk.com/content/testdrives/Reviews/toyota-prius-2004.html Test Drive Notes: 2004 Toyota Prius] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101226180316/http://www.cartalk.com/content/testdrives/Reviews/toyota-prius-2004.html |date=26 December 2010}}, ''Car Talk''. Retrieved 21 December 2007.</ref> In the US, the battery pack of 2004 and later models is warrantied for {{convert|150000|mi}} or 10 years in states that have adopted the stricter [[California Air Resources Board|California emissions control standards]], and {{convert|100000|mi}} or 8 years elsewhere.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=2727 |title=Prius Battery Change is No Big Deal |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=29 December 2008 |access-date=27 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120906020042/http://pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=2727 |archive-date=6 September 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/omms/T-MMS-11Prius/pdf/MY11%20Toyota%20Prius%20WMG.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717083020/http://www.toyota.com/t3Portal/document/omms/T-MMS-11Prius/pdf/MY11%20Toyota%20Prius%20WMG.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 July 2011 |title=Prius 2011 Warranty & Maintenance Guide |publisher=Toyota |location=US |access-date=4 March 2011 }}</ref> The warranty for hybrid components is {{convert|100000|mi}} or 8 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.com/prius-hybrid/warranty.html |title=Toyota Prius Warranty and Coverage |publisher=Toyota |access-date=4 March 2011 |archive-date=22 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110322175647/http://www.toyota.com/prius-hybrid/warranty.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

It is classified as a [[SULEV]] (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) and is certified by [[California Air Resources Board]] as an "Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle" ([[AT-PZEV]]).<ref>[http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/handling.html Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100818154037/http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/handling.html |date=18 August 2010 }}, ''Motor Trend''. Retrieved 21 December 2007.</ref> In 2007, the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) and [[California Air Resources Board]] (CARB) rated the Prius as among the cleanest vehicles sold in the United States on the basis of smog-forming emissions.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.hybridcar.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=521&Itemid=1033 |title=2008 Toyota Prius |publisher=Hybridcar.com |date=21 October 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301172801/http://www.hybridcar.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=521&Itemid=1033 |access-date=30 November 2011 |archive-date=1 March 2012}}</ref>

From 2005 to 2009, the second-generation Prius had been built by [[FAW Toyota]] in the city of Changchun for the Chinese market.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://chinaautoweb.com/2010/09/toyota-delays-production-of-third-generation-prius-in-china/ |title=Toyota Delays Production of Third Generation Prius in China |publisher=ChinaAutoWeb.com}}</ref> It was reported that a total of 2,152 Priuses were sold in 2006 and 414 in 2007. The relatively low sales were blamed on a high price, about {{USD|15,000}} higher than in Japan or the US, caused by high duties on imported parts.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/blog/eyeonasia/archives/2007/11/prius_sales_yet.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071107021943/http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/blog/eyeonasia/archives/2007/11/prius_sales_yet.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 November 2007 |title=Prius sales yet to catch fire in China |date=5 November 2007 |first=Ian |last=Rowley |publisher=BusinessWeek Eye on Asia blog |access-date=5 June 2010}}</ref> In an attempt to stem the drop in sales, Toyota cut the price of Prius by up to eight percent in March 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/07/in-china-toyota-cuts-price-of-prius-by-8-due-to-slowing-sales/ |title=In China, Toyota cuts price of Prius by 8% due to slowing sales |date=7 March 2008 |publisher=AutoblogGreen |access-date=28 April 2010 |archive-date=7 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707191156/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/03/07/in-china-toyota-cuts-price-of-prius-by-8-due-to-slowing-sales/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Toyota sold about 1,192,000-second-generation Priuses worldwide.<ref name=Prius3mi/>

== Third generation (XW30; 2009) ==  {{main|Toyota Prius (XW30)}} [[File:Toyota Prius ZVW30 front 20100725.jpg|thumb|Toyota Prius (third generation)]]

Toyota debuted the new Prius (2010 US model year) at the [[North American International Auto Show#2009|January 2009 North American International Auto Show]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.automoblog.net/2009/01/15/the-2010-toyota-prius/ |title=2010 Toyota Prius Revealed – Specs, Images, and more |date=15 January 2009 |publisher=Automoblog.net |access-date=3 October 2010 |archive-date=25 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120225123823/http://www.automoblog.net/2009/01/15/the-2010-toyota-prius/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> and sales began in Japan on 18 May 2009.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/05/17/financial/f233135D65.DTL&type=autos |title=Toyota rolls out new Prius amid hybrid price war |work=San Francisco Chronicle |first=Yuri |last=Kageyama, [[Associated Press]] |date=18 May 2009 |access-date=21 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090527090149/http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=%2Fn%2Fa%2F2009%2F05%2F17%2Ffinancial%2Ff233135D65.DTL |archive-date=27 May 2009}}</ref> Toyota cut the price of the Prius from {{JPY|2.331 million}} to {{JPY|2.05 million}} to better compete with the [[Honda Insight]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090402/carnews/904029987 |title=Toyota Prius slashes price to match Honda Insight |date=23 February 2010 |first=Hans |last=Greimel |work=Autoweek |access-date=23 March 2010}}</ref> leading some to wonder whether increased sales of the Prius might come at the expense of sales of other vehicles with higher margins. Competition from lower priced hybrids, such as the Honda Insight, also made it difficult for Toyota to capitalize on the Prius's success.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601209&sid=a1kPj_bJW8aI |title=Toyota Prius Leaps to No. 1 in Japan on Incentives |date=8 January 2010 |first1=Kiyori |last1=Ueno |first2=Tetsuya |last2=Komatsu |access-date=7 March 2010 |publisher=Bloomberg}}</ref> {{As of|2013|06}}, Toyota has sold about 1,688,000 third-generation Priuses worldwide.<ref name=Prius3mi/>

Among the new standard features of the Prius, Toyota introduced three user-selectable driving modes: EV mode for electric-only low-speed operation, Eco mode for best [[fuel efficiency]], and Power mode for better performance. Optional features included the solar-PV roof panels to help cool the cabin interior in summer heat, Intelligent Parking Assist, Lane Keep Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.cars.com/reviews/our-view-2010-toyota-prius-1420689296785/|title=Our view: 2010 Toyota Prius |last=Thomas |first=David |work=Cars |location=US |date=25 March 2009 |access-date=31 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.autoguide.com/manufacturer/toyota/2010-toyota-prius-first-drive-1141.html |title=2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid Review |last=Wood |first=Colum |work=AutoGuide |location=US |date=26 June 2009 |access-date=1 January 2019}}</ref>

Its new body design features a reduced {{Cd|0.25|link=car|long=yes}}. This figure was disputed by [[General Motors]] which found the value for the model with 17-inch wheels to be around 0.30 based on tests in GM, Ford, and Chrysler wind tunnels.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/sae/10EVSD1104/index.php?lre=1:3131394433443637344442344144344633373441453033413937384646463337#/38 |work=Vehicle Electrification |publisher=SAE International |date=1 November 2010 |access-date=16 May 2011 |page=39 |title=Sweating the Body Details}}</ref> ''Car & Driver'' measured the third-generation Prius at 0.26 in a privately arranged five-way wind-tunnel test of comparable cars.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/features/drag-queens-aerodynamics-compared-comparison-test |title=Drag Queens: Aerodynamics Compared |first=Don |last=Sherman |work=[[Car & Driver]] |date=1 June 2014 |access-date=2 July 2014}}</ref> An underbody rear fin helps stabilize the vehicle at higher speeds.

A new front-drive platform underpinned the car, although the wheelbase remained unchanged and overall length grew by a lone centimeter. Aluminium was employed in the bonnet, rear hatch, front axle and brake calipers (disc brakes were finally assigned to all four wheels).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autofile.ca/en-ca/car-reviews/should-you-buy-a-used-toyota-prius |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151210212350/http://www.autofile.ca/en-ca/car-reviews/should-you-buy-a-used-toyota-prius |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 December 2015 |title=Third-generation 2010 Prius adds new front-drive platform |publisher=Autofile |access-date=5 November 2015 }}</ref> The new platform also includes an upgraded 1.8-litre [[Atkinson cycle|Atkinson-cycle]] four-cylinder engine, producing 98 hp at 5,200 rpm.<ref>{{Cite web |last=tpadmin |date=2009-09-28 |title=All-New Third Generation Toyota Prius Raises the Bar for Hybrid Vehicles Again |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/all-new-third-generation-toyota-prius-raises-the-bar-for-hybrid-vehicles-again/ |access-date=2025-10-20 |website=Toyota USA Newsroom |language=en-US}}</ref>

The Prius uses a range of plant-derived ecological [[bioplastic]]s, using wood or grass-derived cellulose instead of petroleum. The two principal crops used are [[kenaf]] and [[China grass|ramie]]. Kenaf is a member of the [[Malvaceae|hibiscus family]], a relative to cotton and okra; ramie, commonly known as China grass, is a member of the [[Urticaceae|nettle family]] and one of the strongest natural fibres, with a density and absorbency comparable to [[flax]]. Toyota said this was a timely breakthrough for plant-based eco-plastics because 2009 was the United Nations' International Year of Natural Fibres, which spotlights kenaf and ramie among others.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/519B837DC4814BBECA257598000719BD |title=Goauto.com.au |publisher=Go auto |date=14 April 2009 |access-date=3 October 2010 |archive-date=15 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815111217/http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/519B837DC4814BBECA257598000719BD |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Awards===

At its introduction in 2009, it won the [[Car of the Year Japan]] Award for the second time. In December 2013, ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' named the Prius as the "Best Value", for the second year in a row.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://pressroom.consumerreports.org/pressroom/2013/12/my-entry.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225072502/http://pressroom.consumerreports.org/pressroom/2013/12/my-entry.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 December 2013 |title=Consumer Reports Names Toyota Prius Best New-Car Value for Second Year in A Row' |work=[[Consumer Reports]] |access-date=4 December 2014 |date=18 December 2013 }}</ref>

A 2019 iSeeCars study ranked the Prius as the second longest-kept vehicle among U.S. drivers.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Chavanne |first1=Julie |title=Cars Original Owners Keep for 15 Years or Longer |url=https://www.iseecars.com/cars-kept-15-years-2019-study|access-date=14 February 2019}}</ref>

== Fourth generation (XW50; 2015) ==  {{main|Toyota Prius (XW50)}} [[File:2016 Toyota Prius Excel VVT-I CVT 1.8.jpg|thumb|right|Toyota Prius (fourth generation)]]

The fourth-generation Prius was first shown during September 2015 in Las Vegas,<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://toyotanews.pressroom.toyota.com/releases/2016+toyota+prius+global+debut.htm |title=Beyond Possible: The Sky's the Limit for the All-New 2016 Prius at Las Vegas World Premiere Event |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=9 September 2015 |access-date=27 December 2015}}</ref> and was released for retail customers in Japan on 9 December 2015. The launch in the North American market occurred in January 2016, and February in Europe and the Middle East.

In August 2013, Toyota Managing Officer Satoshi Ogiso, who was chief engineer for the Prius line, announced some of the improvements and key features of the next generation Prius.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/joannmuller/2013/08/29/toyota-flexes-its-muscles-with-plans-for-new-wave-of-hybrids/ |title=Toyota Unveils Plans For 15 New Or Improved Hybrids (It Already Has 23) |first=Joann |last=Muller |work=[[Forbes]] |date=29 August 2013 |access-date=31 August 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-08-28/toyota-refines-battery-chemistry-to-boost-next-prius-efficiency#p2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203135230/http://www.businessweek.com/news/2013-08-28/toyota-refines-battery-chemistry-to-boost-next-prius-efficiency#p2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=3 December 2013 |title=Toyota Refines Battery Chemistry to Boost Next Prius Efficiency |first1=Craig |last1=Trudell |first2=Alan |last2=Ohnsman |work=[[Bloomberg Businessweek]] |date=28 August 2013 |access-date=31 August 2013}}</ref> This was the first generation of the Prius to use the [[Toyota New Global Architecture]] (TNGA) modular platform, which provides a lower [[center of gravity]] and increased structural rigidity. Ogiso also explained that the next-generation Prius plug-in hybrid, the Prius Prime, was developed in parallel with the standard Prius model.<ref name=AN082013>{{cite news |url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130828/OEM05/130829906/next-prius-will-cost-less-get-better-fuel-economy-toyota-engineer |title=Next Prius will cost less, get better fuel economy, Toyota engineer says |first=Mark |last=Rechtin |work=[[Automotive News]] |date=28 August 2013 |access-date=31 August 2013}}</ref><ref name=GCC082013>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/08/20130828-ogiso.html |title=Toyota broadly outlines next-generation Prius; developing wireless inductive charging for the plug-in model; bullish on hydrogen |location=US |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=28 August 2013 |access-date=31 August 2013}}</ref> This variant became available in late 2016, featuring a reduced 4-seat capacity. In a mid-generation update, the 2020 Prius Prime restored the 5-seat capacity.

The 2018 [[model year]] Prius Eco ranked as the second-most-fuel-efficient petrol-powered car without [[plug-in electric vehicle|plug-in capability]] available in the US that year, following the [[Hyundai Ioniq|Hyundai Ioniq Blue]] hybrid.<ref name="2016PriusEcoTop">{{cite news |last=Voelcker |first=John |date=21 December 2015 |title=2016 Toyota Prius: Most Fuel-Efficient Car Without A Plug, Ever |work=Green Car Reports |url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1101506_2016-toyota-prius-most-fuel-efficient-car-without-a-plug-ever |access-date=24 December 2015}}</ref><ref name="EPAtop10 for 2018">{{cite web |date=n.d. |title=Fueleconomy.gov Top Ten: Top Fuel Sippers (EPA Ratings, 2018 Model Year) |url=https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/topten.jsp?year=2018&action=ExEvsPhevs |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409210300/https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/topten.jsp?year=2018&action=ExEvsPhevs |archive-date=9 April 2018 |access-date=17 April 2018 |publisher=[[US Environmental Protection Agency]] and [[US Department of Energy]]}}</ref>

===2018 facelift===  [[File:Toyota Prius S (ZVW51) in Thermo-Tech Lime Green, front left.jpg|thumb|Prius (fourth generation; facelift)]]

In late November 2018, for the 2019 model year, the U.S. market Prius lineup introduced an [[all-wheel drive]] model featuring Toyota's [[E-four|E-Four]] system. This has been available for the [[Japanese domestic market|Japanese market]] Prius since 2015 and the hybrid versions of the [[Toyota RAV4|RAV4]] and [[Lexus NX]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/2019-toyota-prius-awd-hybrid-photos-info |title=The 2019 Toyota Prius Is Likely Getting All-Wheel Drive |last=Golson |first=Daniel |work=Car and Driver |location=US |date=8 November 2018 |access-date=9 November 2018 |ref=Car & Driver Nov 2018 - 2019 Prius Likely Getting All-Wheel Drive}}</ref> Also, the Prius received a facelift with redesigned headlights and tail lights, which was released in Japan on 17 December 2018.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thetorquereport.com/toyota/2019-toyota-prius-gets-a-facelift-and-all-wheel-drive/ |title= 2019 Toyota Prius gets a facelift and all-wheel drive |date=27 November 2018 |access-date=27 November 2018}}</ref>

In 2021, for the 2022 model year, Toyota released the Nightshade Edition in the US. Like other Nightshade models, it added black paint to exterior trim pieces. It was available in FWD or AWD-e powertrain and in three exterior colours.<ref>{{Cite news |title=2022 Prius becomes the 11th Toyota to get the Nightshade treatment |date=27 May 2021| access-date=3 June 2021| url=https://www.autoblog.com/2021/05/27/2022-toyota-prius-nightshade-appearance-package/ |work=Autoblog}}</ref>

== Fifth generation (XW60; 2022) == {{Infobox automobile | name = Fifth generation | image = Toyota Prius (XW60) Plug-in Hybrid IMG 9905.jpg | caption = Prius Plug-in Hybrid | model_code = XW60 | production = December 2022 – present | model_years = 2023–present (North America) | assembly = Japan: [[Toyota, Aichi]] ([[Toyota Tsutsumi plant|Tsutsumi plant]]) | designer = {{unbulleted list | Yuji Fujiwara (project chief designer)<ref name="xw60design">{{cite web |date=19 December 2022 |title=Prius Design Sketches |url=https://global.toyota/en/mobility/toyota-brand/toyota-design/prius/ |access-date=11 January 2023 |website=Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global Website |publisher=Toyota}}</ref> | Manabu Hirokawa, Hideaki Iida and Mario Majdandžić (exterior)<ref name="xw60design"/> | Tsuyoshi Oba and Yuta Nozaki (interior)<ref name="xw60design"/> }} | layout = {{unbulleted list | [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive]] | [[Front-engine, four-wheel-drive]] (E-Four) }} | platform = TNGA: [[Toyota TNGA-C platform|GA-C]]<ref>{{Cite press release |title=World premiere for fifth-generation Toyota Prius, 100% Plug-in Hybrid for Europe |date=16 November 2022 |publisher=Toyota Europe |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/world-premiere-for-fifth-generation-toyota-prius-100-plug-in-hybrid-for-europe/ |access-date=16 November 2022}}</ref> | related = {{ubl | [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (XW60)|Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid/Prime (XW60)]] | [[Toyota C-HR (AX20)]] }} | engine = {{unbulleted list | '''[[Petrol engine|Petrol]] [[Hybrid electric vehicle|hybrid]]:''' | 1.8 L ''[[Toyota ZR engine#2ZR-FXE|2ZR-FXE]]'' [[Straight-four engine|I4]] (ZVW60/65) | 2.0 L ''[[Toyota Dynamic Force engine#M20A-FXS|M20A-FXS]]'' I4 (MXWH60/65) }} | motor = {{unbulleted list | [[AC motor|AC]] [[Synchronous motor|synchronous]] | ''1VM'' (front); ''1WM'' (rear) }} | powerout = {{unbulleted list | {{cvt|72|kW|hp PS|0}} (''2ZR-FXE'', petrol engine only); {{cvt|103|kW|hp PS|0}} (''2ZR-FXE'', combined system output) | {{cvt|112|kW|hp PS|0}} (''M20A-FXS'', petrol engine only); {{cvt|144|–|146|kW|hp PS|0}} (''M20A-FXS'', combined system output) | {{cvt|70|–|83|kW|hp PS|0}} (''1VM'' motor) | {{cvt|30|kW|hp PS|0}} (''1WM'' motor) }} | transmission = [[Transmission (mechanics)#Electric variable|eCVT]] | drivetrain = [[Hybrid vehicle drivetrain#Power-split or series-parallel hybrid|Power-split]] | battery = 4.08 [[Ampere hour|Ah]] [[lithium-ion]] | wheelbase = {{cvt|2750|mm|in|1}} | length = {{cvt|4600|mm|in|1}} | width = {{cvt|1780|mm|in|1}} | height = {{cvt|1420|–|1430|mm|in|1}} | weight = {{cvt|1350|–|1480|kg|lb|0 }} | predecessor = [[Toyota Prius (XW50)]] }}

The fifth-generation Prius was presented on 16 November 2022,<ref name=Prius2023>{{Cite press release |title=World Premiere of All-New Prius in Japan |date=16 November 2022 |publisher=Toyota Global |url=https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/38225618.html |access-date=16 November 2022}}</ref> with two powertrain options announced for the Japanese market. This generation of Prius is available in 1.8-litre (''[[Toyota ZR engine#2ZR-FXE|2ZR-FXE]]'') and 2.0-litre (''[[Toyota Dynamic Force engine#M20A-FXS|M20A-FXS]]'') variants, which can produce up to {{cvt|103|kW|hp PS|0}} and {{cvt|144|or|146|kW|hp PS|0}}, respectively. This model is also available with [[E-Four]] all-wheel drive system. The second, a [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (XW60)|plug-in hybrid]], combines a 2.0-litre ''M20A-FXS'' engine, an [[electric motor]] and [[lithium-ion]] batteries to produce a combined output of {{convert|164|kW|hp PS|abbr=on|0}}.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/2023-toyota-prius-makes-the-iconic-plug-in-hybrid-better-in-all-areas/|title=2023 Toyota Prius Makes The Iconic Plug-In Hybrid Better In All Areas|date=16 November 2022|website=Carscoops}}</ref>

The new design has a higher {{Cd|long=yes|link=yes|0.27}} but it has a lower frontal area, and a smaller cargo volume than before.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Visnic |first1=Bill |title=2023 Toyota Prius punches it up |url=https://www.sae.org/news/2022/12/2023-toyota-prius-overview |publisher=Society of Automotive Engineers |access-date=7 August 2023 |language=en |date=19 December 2022}}</ref>

In Europe, deliveries began in the first quarter of 2023,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://insideevs.com/news/621989/2023-toyota-prius-unveiled-europe-as-plug-in-hybrid-only/|title=2023 Toyota Prius Unveiled In Europe As A Plug-In Hybrid Only|website=InsideEVs}}</ref> with only the plug-in hybrid model being available.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/2023-toyota-prius-will-come-to-europe-solely-with-220-hp-phev-powertrain/|title=2023 Toyota Prius Coming To Europe Solely As A 220 HP PHEV|date=16 November 2022|website=Carscoops}}</ref>

Unlike previous generations, this generation was not sold in Australia due to sluggish sales with the previous generation. It was replaced by a shorter Corolla Hatchback Hybrid.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Costello |first=Mike |date=11 May 2022 |title=Toyota Prius axed from Australia |url=https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/toyota-prius-axed-from-australia |access-date=13 December 2022 |website=CarExpert |language=en}}</ref> Toyota New Zealand also decided not to offer the new generation Prius initially, but have resumed sales in 2024 under their Signature Class imported vehicle program.{{citation needed|date=September 2024}}

In October 2023, Toyota reversed its initial decision not to sell the fifth-generation Prius in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exclusive: New Toyota Prius will go on sale in UK |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/toyota-prius |access-date=2 November 2023 |website=Autocar |language=en}}</ref>

In 2024, for the 2025 model year, the Prime model was renamed to Plug-in Hybrid for the North American market.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=2024-09-26 |title=The Toyota Prius and Rav4 are no longer Prime |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/26/24254955/toyota-prius-rav4-plug-in-hybrid-drops-prime-2025 |access-date=2024-09-29 |website=The Verge |language=en}}</ref>

<gallery widths="220" heights="124"> File:Toyota Prius (XW60) Plug-in Hybrid IMG 9895.jpg|Rear view File:2023 Toyota Prius Z 2.0L HEV (2).jpg|Interior </gallery>

=== Markets === ==== Japan ==== In Japan, the Prius went on sale on 10 January 2023. The {{proper name|Prius}} trims offered are X, U, G, and Z;<ref>{{cite news|url=https://bestcarweb.jp/newcar/547851|title=Which is better, 1.8L or 2L? If you are aiming for a new Prius, this is the recommended grade!|website=Best Car Web|date=16 November 2022|access-date=22 December 2022|language=Japanese}}</ref> the former two are equipped with the ''2ZR-FXE'' engine, and the latter two equipped with the ''M20A-FXS'' engine.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bestcarweb.jp/feature/test-drive/570521|title=Test drive the new Prius ahead of its time!! It's fun to drive!|website=Best Car Web|date=22 December 2022 |access-date=22 December 2022|language=Japanese}}</ref>

==== United States ==== The United States market Prius is available in three trims: LE, XLE, and Limited. All trims are powered with the ''M20A-FXS'' engine; AWD is optional on all.<ref name="hybrid reborn">{{cite press release |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/hybrid-reborn-2023-toyota-prius-revealed/ |title=Hybrid Reborn: 2023 Toyota Prius Revealed |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=16 November 2022 |access-date=4 December 2022}}</ref> In 2024, for the 2025 model year, the Nightshade trim was added, based on the XLE trim.<ref>{{Cite press release |last= |first= |date=2025-01-07 |title=2025 Toyota Prius Gets a Moody Vibe with New Nightshade Grade |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/2025-toyota-prius-gets-a-moody-vibe-with-new-nightshade-grade/ |access-date=2025-01-11 |publisher=Toyota |location=US}}</ref>

==== Canada ==== The Canadian market Prius is available in two trims: XLE and Limited. Both are powered with the ''M20A-FXS'' engine, and include AWD.<ref name="A Stunner is Born">{{cite press release |url=https://www.toyota.ca/toyota/en/about/news/a-stunner-is-born-allnew-2023-toyota-prius-arrives-this-winter |title=A Stunner is Born: All-New 2023 Toyota Prius Arrives This Winter |publisher=Toyota |location=Canada |date=13 December 2022 |access-date=18 June 2023}}</ref>

==== Indonesia ==== The Prius was previewed at the [[Indonesia International Auto Show#2023|30th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show]] on 10 August 2023, and launched at the [[Indonesia International Auto Show#2024|31st Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show]] on 17 July 2024. Only the hybrid variant is sold in Indonesia, and only by special order.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lee |first=Jonathan |date=17 July 2024 |title=2024 Toyota Prius in Indonesia – 5th-gen 1.8L hybrid and 2.0L PHEV, indent order only, from RM202k |url=https://paultan.org/2024/07/17/2024-toyota-prius-in-indonesia-5th-gen-1-8l-hybrid-and-2-0l-phev-indent-order-only-from-rm202k/ |website=[[paultan.org]] |access-date=11 November 2025}}</ref>

==== South Korea ==== The South Korean market Prius went on sale on 13 December 2023. All variants are powered by the ''M20A-FXS'' engine. Similar to North America, the hybrid variant is available in LE and XLE trims, while the PHEV variant is available in SE and XSE trims. Ambient lighting is standard on XLE HEV and XSE PHEV trims.<ref>{{cite news |title=토요타, 디자인과 성능 업그레이드 된 '5세대 프리우스' 출시 |trans-title=Toyota Launches '5th Generation Prius' with Upgraded Design and Performance |url=https://www.autoview.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=82352 |publisher=Autoview |language=Korean |location=Korea |access-date=6 December 2024 |date=13 December 2023}}</ref>

=== Safety === The Prius holds the 2023 IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

{| class="wikitable" |+'''[[Insurance Institute for Highway Safety|IIHS]] scores''': 2023 Toyota Prius<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/toyota/prius-4-door-hatchback/2023|title=2023 Toyota Prius|website=IIHS-HLDI crash testing and highway safety |location=US}}</ref> |Small overlap front (driver) || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good |- |Small overlap front (passenger) || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good |- |Moderate overlap front || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good |- |Side impact || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good |- |Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian (Day) || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Superior |- |Front crash prevention: vehicle-to-pedestrian (Night) || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Superior |- |Headlights || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:black;background:yellow" |Acceptable |- |Seat belt reminders || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good |- |Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use || colspan="1" style="text-align:center;color:white;background:green" |Good+ |}

=== Awards === *US: Japan Car of the Year award for 2023-2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Toyota Prius has won Japan Car of the year Award for 2023-2024 – Japanese Car News |url=https://japanesecarnews.com/toyota-prius-has-won-japan-car-of-the-year-award-for-2023-2024/ |year=2023 |access-date=8 December 2023}}</ref> *US: Kelley Blue Book Best New Model Award 2024.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.kbb.com/awards/2024-toyota-prius-best-new-model/ |title=Toyota Prius Is Our Best New Model of 2024 |first=Matt |last=Degen |publisher=Kelley Blue Book |location=US |date=4 December 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: 2024 [[Motor Trend Car of the Year|''MotorTrend'' Car of the Year]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Toyota Prius Receives Top Honors as the 2024 MotorTrend Car of the Year |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/toyota-prius-receives-top-honors-as-the-2024-motortrend-car-of-the-year-301990190.html |website=PR Newswire |location=US |date=16 November 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> *US: 2024 [[North American Car of the Year#2017–present|North American Car of the Year]].<ref>{{cite press release |title=North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year™ Officers Reveal Award Winners for 2024 |url=https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2024/01/04/2804218/0/en/North-American-Car-Truck-and-Utility-Vehicle-of-the-Year-Officers-Reveal-Award-Winners-for-2024.html |location=US |date=4 January 2024 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=2024 North American Car/Truck/Utility of the Year Winners! |url=https://www.designnews.com/automotive-engineering/2024-north-american-car-truck-suv-of-the-year-winners- |first=Dan |last=Carney |work=Design News |location=US |date=5 January 2024 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: ''The Drive''{{'}}s Best Car of 2023.<ref>{{cite news |title=The Drive's Best Car of 2023 Is the Toyota Prius |url=https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/toyota-prius-best-car-2023 |first=Kyle |last=Cheremcha |work=The Drive |location=US |date=8 December 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: ''[[MotorWeek]]''{{'}}s Drivers’ Choice Awards for Best Family Car of 2023.<ref>{{cite news |title=2023 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Awards |url=https://motorweek.org/drivers_choice_awards/2023-motorweek-drivers-choice-awards/ |work=Motor Week |publisher=PBS |location=US |year=2023 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: ''[[Car and Driver]]''{{'s}} recipient of the 10 Best in 2024.<ref>{{cite news |title=2024 Toyota Prius: Car and Driver 10Best |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a45976802/10best-2024-toyota-prius/ |first=Ezra |last=Dyer |work=Car and Driver |location=US |date=5 December 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: 2024 [[Green Car of the Year]] (Prius Prime).<ref>{{cite news |title=Winners! The Best Green Cars of the Year |url=https://greencarjournal.com/features/winners-the-best-green-cars-of-the-year/ |work=Green Car Journal |location=US |date=29 November 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> *US: [[Edmunds (company)|Edmunds]]' Top Rated Car of 2024 Award.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Yekikian |first1=Nick |title=Edmunds Top Rated 2024: These Cars, Trucks and SUVs Won Our Highest Honor |url=https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/edmunds-top-rated-2024-cars-trucks-suvs.html |publisher=edmunds.com |date=24 January 2024}}</ref> *Canada: 2024 Canadian Car of the Year Award.<ref>{{cite news |title=2024 Canadian Car of the Year winners announced by Automobile Journalists Association of Canada |url=https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/2024-canadian-car-of-the-year-winners-announced-by-automobile-journalists-association-of-canada-833084937.html |publisher=Newswire.ca |date=15 February 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Toyota Prius named 2024 Canadian Car of the Year, but which vehicles won utility vehicle as well as electric car and electric utility vehicle of the year? |url=https://www.toronto.com/life/toyota-prius-named-2024-canadian-car-of-the-year-but-which-vehicles-won-utility-vehicle/article_74ac45f9-b769-5696-92ed-7f533195a8b3.html |publisher=toronto.com}}</ref> *2024 World Car Design of the Year<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://www.worldcarawards.com/files/2024_WCA_Winner_Design.pdf |title=Toyota Prius – 2024 World car design of the year |work=World Car Awards |date=27 March 2024 |access-date=15 May 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=2024 World Car Awards - Results :: World Car Awards |url=https://www.worldcarawards.com/web/2024_results.asp |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250711062336/https://www.worldcarawards.com/web/2024_results.asp |archive-date=2025-07-11 |access-date=2025-11-27 |website=www.worldcarawards.com}}</ref>

=== Recall === In April 2024, Toyota issued a recall affecting 211,000 2023 and 2024 model year Prius and Prius Prime units worldwide where the rear doors can open unexpectedly if not locked due to a short circuit on the electronic rear door latches when the car is moving or involved in a collision.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Alaniz |first=Anthony |title=Toyota Recalls New Prius Over Rear Doors That Could Open While Driving |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/716629/2023-2024-toyota-prius-recalled-doors/ |work=Motor1 |location=US |date=2024-04-18 |access-date=2024-06-01}}</ref> The issue was that water could possibly short circuit the door lock. The issue has now been resolved, remaining vehicles that do not have new switches are replaced at US port of entry for vehicles shipped overseas.{{citation needed|date=August 2024}}

== Prius family ==

=== Prius Plug-in Hybrid === {{main|Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid}} [[File:11-09-04-iaa-by-RalfR-107.jpg|thumb|[[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid]] (first generation)]]

The [[Prius Plug-in Hybrid]] (ZVW35) is based on the conventional [[Toyota Prius (XW30)|third generation (ZVW30)]] with a 4.4{{nbsp}}[[kWh]] [[lithium-ion battery]] that allows an [[all-electric range]] of {{convert|11|mi|km|0|abbr=in|order=flip}}.<ref name="US News">{{cite web |url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/prius-plug-in/2014 |title=2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In Prices, Reviews & Listings for Sale |work=U.S. News & World Report |access-date=4 January 2020}}</ref> A global demonstration program involving 600 [[pre-production car|pre-production test cars]] began in late 2009 and took place in Japan, Europe, Canada, China, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.<ref name=Demo>{{cite web |url=http://www.sustainablemobility.com/?section=demoprograms |title=Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Demo Program |publisher=[[Toyota]] |access-date=9 April 2010}}</ref><ref name=ToyotaDemo2009>{{cite web |url=http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/09/12/1214.html |title=TMC Introduces 'Prius Plug-in Hybrid' into Key Markets |publisher=[[Toyota]] News release |date=14 December 2009 |access-date=9 April 2010}}</ref><ref name=China>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2010/04/toyota-20100425.html#more |title=Toyota to Start Trials of Plug-in Prius in China |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=25 April 2010 |access-date=26 April 2010}}</ref>

The production version was unveiled at the [[International Motor Show Germany#2011|September 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show]].<ref name=Frankfurt2011>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2011/09/14/2012-toyota-prius-plug-in-hybrid-mpge-mpg/ |title=2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid now offers 111 MPGe |first=Sebastian |last=Blanco |publisher=AutoblogGreen |date=14 September 2011 |access-date=16 September 2011}} ''See details in Toyota Press Release''</ref> Deliveries began in Japan in late January 2012,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://integrityexports.com/2011/09/30/prius-plug-in-hybrid-on-sale-january-in-japan-charging-stations-at-5500-dealerships-and-car-rental-locations/ |title=Prius Plug-In Hybrid on Sale January in Japan – Charging Stations at 5,500 Dealerships and Car Rental Locations |first=Stephen |last=Munday |publisher=Integrity Exports |date=30 September 2011 |access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> followed by a limited roll-out in the U.S. in late February.<ref name=PEVsalesUS>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1074785_plug-in-car-sales-soar-in-march-led-by-chevrolet-volt |title=Plug-In Car Sales Soar in March, Led By Chevrolet Volt |first=John |last=Voelcker |publisher=Green Car Reports |date=3 April 2012 |access-date=3 April 2012}}</ref> Deliveries began in Europe in June 2012 and in the UK in August 2012.<ref name=PriuSales0612EU>{{cite press release |url=http://corporatemedia.toyota.eu/pressrelease/2908/154/solid-13-q2-sales-increase-toyota-lexus-vehicles |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130213091234/http://corporatemedia.toyota.eu/pressrelease/2908/154/solid-13-q2-sales-increase-toyota-lexus-vehicles |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 February 2013 |title=Solid 13% Q2 sales increase for Toyota and Lexus vehicles in Europe |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe |date=13 July 2012 |access-date=7 August 2012 }}</ref><ref name=FirstUK>{{cite web |url=http://hybridcars.com/news/toyota-delivers-first-fleet-customer-prius-plug-49613.html |title=Toyota Delivers First Fleet Customer Prius Plug-In |first=Huw |last=Evans |publisher=HybridCars.com |date=7 August 2012 |access-date=7 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810041331/http://www.hybridcars.com/news/toyota-delivers-first-fleet-customer-prius-plug-49613.html |archive-date=10 August 2012}}</ref>

=== Prius Prime === {{main|Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid}} [[File:2019 Toyota Prius Business Edition+ PHEV 1.8.jpg|thumb|[[Toyota Prius Prime]]]]

The second generation of the plug-in hybrid version of the Prius, called [[Toyota Prius Prime]] in the U.S. and Prius PHV in Japan,<ref name=Prime_PHV>{{cite news | url=http://www.japantoday.com/category/business/view/toyota-gets-bullish-on-plug-in-hybrids-with-new-prius-prime | title=Toyota gets bullish on plug-in hybrids with new Prius Prime | first=Yuri | last=Kageyama | work=[[Japan Today]] | date=17 June 2016 | access-date=17 June 2016}}</ref> was developed in parallel with the standard fourth generation Prius model (XW50) released in December 2015.<ref name=PriusPrime1/> The model was released to retail customers in the U.S. in November 2016,<ref name=1stPriusPrime>{{cite news| url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1107541_plug-in-electric-car-sales-for-nov-volt-soars-prius-prime-arrives | title=Plug-in electric car sales for Nov: Volt soars, Prius Prime arrives (UPDATE) |first=John |last=Voelcker | work=Green Car Reports |date=1 December 2016 |access-date=1 December 2016}}</ref> followed by Japan in February 2017.<ref name=JapanPHV2>{{cite news | url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20170215/OEM05/170219908/toyota-sees-plug-in-hybrids-catching-on-faster-than-conventional |title=Toyota sees plug-in hybrids catching on faster than conventional hybrids| first=Naomi |last=Tajitsu | agency=Reuters |publisher=Automotive News | date=15 February 2017 | access-date=19 February 2017}} ''Around 75,000 first generation Prius plug-ins have been sold since its launch in 2012.''</ref> In the American market, unlike the first generation model, the Prius Prime is available in all 50 states.<ref name=PriusPrime1>{{cite news |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2016/03/23/toyota-prius-prime-new-york-official/ |title=Toyota Prius Prime plugs in with 22 EV miles |first=Sebastian |last=Blanco |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=23 March 2016 |access-date=24 March 2016}}</ref><ref name=PriusPrime2>{{cite news |url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20160323/OEM04/303239954/toyota-looks-to-boost-prius-with-all-new-plug-in-prime |title=Toyota looks to boost Prius with all-new plug-in Prime |first=David |last=Undercoffler |work=[[Automotive News]] |date=23 March 2016 |access-date=24 March 2016}}</ref>

=== Prius v === {{main|Toyota Prius V}} [[File:Toyota Prius+ – f 06072025.jpg|thumb|2012 Prius v]]

At the [[North American International Auto Show#2011|January 2011 North American International Auto Show]], Toyota revealed the 2012 model year [[Toyota Prius v|Prius ''v'']], an [[Multi purpose vehicle|MPV]], which is derived from the third-generation Prius and features over 50 percent more interior cargo space than the original Prius design.

In May 2011, Toyota introduced the Prius α (alpha) in Japan, which is available in a five-seat, two-row model and a seven-seat, three-row model, the latter's third row enabled by a space-saving lithium-ion drive battery in the center console. The five-seat model uses a [[Nickel–metal hydride battery|NiMH]] battery pack.<ref name=Reuters0511/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2011/05/priusa-20110513.html#tp |title=Toyota launches Prius α in Japan; forecasts delay in deliveries of the new model |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=13 May 2011 |access-date=13 May 2011}}</ref> The Alpha is the basis for the five-seat Prius ''v'' launched in North America in October 2011 with a [[nickel-metal hydride battery]] pack similar to the 2010 [[model year]] Prius, and with two rows of seats to accommodate five passengers. The European and Japanese versions are offered with a [[lithium-ion battery]], with three rows of seats with accommodations for seven passengers. The seven passenger seating on the Prius v is not available on North American Prius v models.<ref name=NYT031011>{{cite news |url=http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/10/toyota-downsizes-prius-wagons-seating-capacity-for-u-s/?emc=eta1 |title=Toyota Downsizes Prius Wagon's Seating Capacity for U.S. |first=Jim |last=Motavalli |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=10 March 2011 |access-date=15 March 2011}}</ref> The European version, named Prius+ (plus), began deliveries in June 2012.<ref name=PriuSales0612EU/><ref name=Reuters0511>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/toyota-prius-idUSL3E7GD0KJ20110513 |title=UPDATE 1-Toyota gets 25,000 pre-sale orders for Prius Alpha in Japan |work=[[Reuters]] |date=13 May 2011 |access-date=13 May 2011 |first=Chang-Ran |last=Kim}}</ref> US sales ended in 2017. Japanese production ended in March 2021.<ref name="itmedia">{{cite news |url=https://www.itmedia.co.jp/business/articles/2012/02/news124.html |title=トヨタ、「プリウスα」「プレミオ」など5車種を生産終了 |trans-title=Toyota discontinues production of 5 models including "Prius α" and "Premio" |work=IT Media |location=Japan |language=ja |date=2 December 2020 |access-date=23 October 2021}}</ref>

=== Prius c === {{main|Toyota Prius C}} [[File:2011-2014 Toyota Aqua.jpg|thumb|Prius c]]

Toyota unveiled the [[Toyota Prius C Concept|Prius c concept]] at the [[North American International Auto Show#2011|January 2011 North American International Auto Show]]. The Prius c has a lower [[list price]] and is smaller than the previous Prius liftback. The production version was unveiled at the [[Tokyo Motor Show#2011|2011 Tokyo Motor Show]] as the Toyota Aqua, and was launched in Japan in December 2011.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-12-26/toyota-adds-to-prius-lineup-with-smallest-hybrid-aimed-at-fit.html |title=Toyota Adds to Prius Lineup With Smallest Hybrid |first1=Anna |last1=Mukai |first2=Yuki |last2=Hagiwara |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |date=25 December 2011 |access-date=28 December 2011}}</ref> The [[Prius c]] was released in the US and Canada in March 2012,<ref name=LaunchUS>{{cite web |url=http://wot.motortrend.com/make-it-yours-2012-toyota-prius-c-configurator-goes-live-178545.html |title=Make It Yours: 2012 Toyota Prius c Configurator Goes Live |first=Donny |last=Nordlicht |publisher=[[Motor Trend]] |date=12 March 2012 |access-date=12 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://media.toyota.ca/pr/tci/en/new-models-and-hybrids-power-toyota-231549.aspx |title=New models and hybrids power Toyota Canada Inc.'s sales in March 2012 |publisher=Toyota |location=Canada |date=3 April 2012 |access-date=1 May 2012 |archive-date=20 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720010455/http://media.toyota.ca/pr/tci/en/new-models-and-hybrids-power-toyota-231549.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> and in April 2012 in Australia and New Zealand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.themotorreport.com.au/53818/toyota-prius-c-on-sale-in-australia |title=Toyota Prius C on Sale in Australia |first=Mike |last=Stevens |work=The Motor Report |date=27 March 2012 |access-date=22 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/motoring/news/article.cfm?c_id=9&objectid=10792372 |title=Toyota on hybrid recruitment drive with baby Prius |first=Alastair |last=Sloane |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=17 March 2012 |access-date=17 March 2012}}</ref> The Prius c is not available in Europe, where instead, Toyota is selling the [[Toyota Yaris Hybrid]] since June 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/news/france-sourced-toyota-yaris-us-bound-2013-47498.html |title=France-Sourced Toyota Yaris US-Bound in 2013 |first=Philippe |last=Crowe |publisher=HybridCars.com |date=25 June 2012 |access-date=31 July 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120628000328/http://www.hybridcars.com/news/france-sourced-toyota-yaris-us-bound-2013-47498.html |archive-date=28 June 2012}}</ref> The Prius c and the Yaris Hybrid share the same powertrain.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motornature.com/2012/01/the-toyota-yaris-hybrid-one-for-europe/ |title=The Toyota Yaris hybrid, one for Europe |first=Laurent J. |last=Masson |publisher=Motor Nature |date=16 January 2012 |access-date=11 February 2012 |archive-date=4 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404161834/http://www.motornature.com/2012/01/the-toyota-yaris-hybrid-one-for-europe/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Sales == {{Multiple issues|{{Overly detailed|section|details=|date=December 2023}} {{Update|section|date=December 2023}}|section=y}}

=== Overview === Global cumulative Prius [[liftback]] sales reached the 1 million vehicle mark in May 2008.<ref name="Toyota0909">{{cite press release |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/04/toyota-tops-2-million-hybrid-sales-worldwide/ |title=Toyota tops 2 million hybrid sales worldwide |publisher=AutobloGreen |date=4 September 2009 |access-date=24 October 2009}}</ref> Sales of one million were achieved in the U.S. by April 2011,<ref name="US1million">{{cite web |date=6 April 2011 |title=Toyota sells One-Millionth Prius in the US |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2011/04/prii-20110406.html#more |access-date=7 April 2011 |publisher=Green Car Congress}}</ref> and Japan in August 2011.<ref name="JP1million">{{cite news |date=13 September 2011 |title=Toyota Prius' cumulative domestic sales top 1 million |work=[[Mainichi Daily News]] |location=Tokyo |url=http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2011/09/13/20110913p2g00m0bu051000c.html |access-date=15 September 2011}}{{dead link|date=February 2018|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> {{As of|2022|09}}, the Prius ranked as the world's top selling hybrid car with 5 million units sold.<ref name="Prius2023" />

{{As of|2017|01}}, the Prius is sold in over 90 countries and regions.<ref name="TMC10miHEVs" /> Worldwide cumulative sales<ref name="tmc_20080515">{{cite press release |url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/0515.html |title=Worldwide Prius Sales Top 1 Million |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |date=15 May 2008 |access-date=22 March 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100210042931/http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/0515.html |archive-date=10 February 2010}}</ref> exceeded 2 million units in September 2010,<ref name="GCC100710">{{cite web |title=Worldwide Prius Cumulative Sales Top 2M Mark; Toyota Reportedly Plans Two New Prius Variants for the US By End of 2012 |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2010/10/worldwide-prius-cumulative-sales-top-2m-mark-toyota-reportedly-plans-two-new-prius-variants-for-the-.html#more |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=7 October 2010 |access-date=7 October 2010}}</ref> and reached 3 million in June 2013.<ref name="Prius3mi" /> {{As of|2017|01}}, global sales of the [[Prius family]] totaled almost 6.1 million units representing 61% of the 10 million hybrids delivered by [[Toyota Motor Company]] (TMC) worldwide, including the Lexus brand.<ref name="TMC10miHEVs">{{cite press release | title=Worldwide Sales of Toyota Hybrids Surpass 10 Million Units |url=http://newsroom.toyota.eu/global-sales-of-toyota-hybrids-reach-10-million/ | publisher=Toyota |location=[[Toyota City, Japan]] |date=14 January 2017 |access-date=15 January 2017 |quote=This latest milestone of 10 million units was achieved just nine months after total sales reached 9 million units at the end of April 2016.}} ''The Prius family accounts for 61% of Toyota's total global cumulative hybrid car sales: 6.115 million units, consisting of Prius liftback: 3.9846 million; Aqua, Prius c: 1.3801 million; Prius α, Prius v, Prius +: 614,700; and Prius PHV: 79,300.''</ref> Sales of the Prius family are led by the Prius liftback, with 4 million units, followed by the Aqua/Prius c with 1.4 million, the Prius +/v/α with, 615 thousand and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid with 79 thousand units.<ref name="TMC10miHEVs" />

{{As of|2011|04}}, the US accounted for almost half of Prius liftback global sales, with 1 million Priuses sold since 2000.<ref name=US1million/> The Prius experienced two consecutive years of sales decreases from its peak in 2007, falling to 139,682 units in 2009<ref name=Toyota100105>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.com/about/news/corporate/2010/01/05-1-sales.html |title=Toyota Reports December And 2009 Sales |publisher=Toyota |access-date=5 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222071740/http://www.toyota.com/about/news/corporate/2010/01/05-1-sales.html |archive-date=22 February 2012}}</ref> before rebounding to 140,928 units in 2010.<ref name=DoEHEV10>{{cite web |url=http://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/data/vehicles.html |title=Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): Trend of sales by HEV models from 1999–2010 |publisher=Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicle Data Center (US DoE) |access-date=5 March 2011}} ''Total registered electric hybrids in the US is 1,888,971 vehicles until December 2010. (Click and open the Excel file for the detail by year for each model) Sales 1999–2010''</ref><ref name=JP1million/> {{As of|2017|01}}, sales of the Prius liftback totaled over 1.8 million units in Japan and 1.8 million in the US, and ranked as the all-time best-selling hybrid car in both countries.<ref name=TMC10miHEVs/><ref name=US4mi>{{cite news | url=http://www.hybridcars.com/americans-buy-their-four-millionth-hybrid-car/ | title=Americans Buy Their Four-Millionth Hybrid Car | first=Jeff |last=Cobb| work=HybridCars.com| date=6 June 2016 | access-date=17 February 2017}}</ref>

; 2010 Cumulative Prius sales in Europe reached 200,000 units by mid-2010, after 10 years in that market. The UK is one of the leading European markets for Prius, accounting for 20% of Priuses sold in Europe.<ref name=GCC200KEU>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2010/07/priuseuro-20100716.html#more |title=Toyota Prius Sales in Europe Reach 200,000 Units |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=16 July 2010 |access-date=16 July 2010}}</ref> Toyota Prius became Japan's best selling vehicle in 2009 for the first time since its debut in 1997 as its sales almost tripled to 208,876 in 2009.<ref name=USAToday>{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2010-01-08-prius-tops_N.htm |title=Prius No. 1 in Japan sales as green interest grows |work=[[USA Today]] |agency=Associated Press |date=8 January 2010 |access-date=14 March 2010}}</ref> In that year it overtook the [[Honda Fit]], which was Japan's best-selling car in 2008 excluding [[Kei car]]s.

; 2011 Rising oil prices caused by the [[Arab Spring]] led to increased sales in Q1 2011, but the [[2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami]] led to a production stoppage. Production restarted, but output was hindered due to shortages from parts suppliers.<ref>[https://www.latimes.com/business/la-xpm-2011-mar-31-la-fi-autos-disruption-20110331-story.html "Toyota Prius dealers see demand rise and inventories fall"] By Jerry Hirsch, ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' 31 March 2011</ref> Nevertheless, during the 2011 [[Fiscal year#Japan|Japanese fiscal year]], the Prius family sold 310,484 units, including sales of the [[Prius α]], launched in May 2011, and the [[Toyota Aqua]], launched in December, allowing the Prius brand to become the best-selling vehicle in Japan for the third consecutive year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://integrityexports.com/2012/04/06/prius-tops-japan-car-sales-in-2011-hybrids-now-16-percent-of-market/ |title=Hybrids Now 16% of Market in Japan as Prius Wins Annual Sales Crown Again |work=[[Asahi Shimbun]] |publisher=Integrity Exports |date=6 April 2012 |access-date=8 April 2012}}</ref>

; 2012 Until September 2012, the Prius liftback was the top selling new car in Japan for 16 months in a row, until surpassed by the Toyota Aqua in October, which kept the lead through December 2012.<ref name="SalesJP2012">{{cite web |script-title=ja:新車乗用車販売台数ランキング |trans-title=New passenger car sales ranking |url=http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/ranking/index.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130805082748/http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/ranking.html |archive-date=5 August 2013 |access-date=30 March 2013 |publisher=[[Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association]] |language=ja}}''See total sales from January to December. Toyota is reporting in Japan sales of the regular Prius and Prius α together''.</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.pddnet.com/news/2012/11/aqua-tops-prius-best-selling-car-japan |title=Aqua Tops Prius as Best-Selling Car in Japan |agency=[[Associated Press]] |work=Product Design and Development (PDDnet) |date=6 October 2012 |access-date=10 November 2012 |archive-date=10 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110203332/http://www.pddnet.com/news/2012/11/aqua-tops-prius-best-selling-car-japan |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Prius liftback, with 317,675 units sold in 2012, was the best selling car in Japan during 2012 for the fourth consecutive year. The Aqua ranked as the second best selling car with 266,567 units sold in 2012.<ref name=SalesJP2012/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2012-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |title=2012 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models |publisher=BestSellingCars.com |date=10 January 2013 |access-date=16 January 2013}}</ref> Nevertheless, when sales of the two Prius models are broken down, the Toyota Aqua ranked as the top selling model in Japan in 2012, including [[kei car]]s, leading sales since February through December 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.carview.co.jp/magazine/market_watch/2012/03/1245/|script-title=ja:2月のボディタイプ別売れ筋モデルをチェック|trans-title=Check the best selling models of different body types February 2012 |language=ja |publisher=Car View |access-date=22 October 2012}} ''When sales are broken down by model, the Aqua ranked second in January and first in February 2012.''</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://bestsellingcarsblog.com/2013/01/29/japan-by-version-december-2012-nissan-sylphy-subaru-brz-shine/ |title=Japan by version December 2012: Nissan Sylphy & Subaru BRZ up |publisher=Best Selling Cars Blog |date=29 September 2013 |access-date=29 January 2013}}</ref> The Aqua was the top selling new car in Japan in 2013,<ref name="TopJap2013">{{cite news |last=Ohnsman |first=Alan |date=9 January 2014 |title=Nissan set to double Leaf sales: Ghosn |work=[[Japan Times]] |url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/01/09/business/nissan-set-to-double-leaf-sales-ghosn/ |access-date=25 January 2014}}</ref> and again in 2014.<ref name="TopJap2013_2014">{{cite web |last=Bekker |first=Henk |date=8 January 2015 |title=2014 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models |url=http://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2014-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=23 January 2015 |publisher=Best Selling Cars}}</ref> Global Prius sales peaked in 2010 with over 500 thousand units sold, and since 2011 sales of the liftback version have declined in most markets through December 2015, and in the US and Canada since 2013.<ref name=TMC9miHEVs>{{cite press release |title=Worldwide Sales of Toyota Hybrids Surpass 9 Million Units |url=http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/en/detail/12077091/ |location=[[Toyota, Aichi]] |publisher=Toyota |date=20 May 2016 |access-date=22 May 2016}}</ref>

High petrol prices in the US, approaching {{USD|4}} a gallon by March 2012, contributed to record monthly sales of Prius family vehicles. A total of 28,711 units were sold in the US during March 2012, becoming the one-month record for Prius sales ever. The third-generation Prius liftback accounted for 18,008 units (63%); the [[Prius v]] accounted for 4,937 units (17%); the [[Prius c]], for 4,875 units (17%); and the [[Prius Plug-in Hybrid]], for 891 units (3%).<ref name="Green Car Congress">{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/04/prius-20120404.html |title=Liftback accounts for 63% of March Prius sales; Prius v and c account for about 17% each |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=8 April 2012 |access-date=8 April 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120408120416/http://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/04/prius-20120404.html |archive-date=8 April 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/news/march-2012-dashboard-44059.html |title=March 2012 Dashboard |publisher=HybridCars.com |date=8 April 2012 |access-date=6 April 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407061357/http://www.hybridcars.com/news/march-2012-dashboard-44059.html |archive-date=7 April 2012}}</ref> Another record was set during the Q1 2012, with Prius family sales of 60,859 units, it became the best selling quarter ever.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-04-03/toyota-sets-prius-sales-record-on-bigger-lineup-gas-prices-3-.html |title=Toyota Sets Prius Sales Record on Bigger Lineup, Gas Prices |first=Alan |last=Ohnsman |work=[[Bloomberg News]] |date=3 April 2012 |access-date=8 April 2012}}</ref> Sales of Toyota Prius family vehicles in California represented 26% of all Prius purchases in the US during 2012. With 60,688 units sold during this year, the Prius became the best selling vehicle in California, ahead of the [[Honda Civic]] (57,124 units) and [[Toyota Camry]] (50,250 units).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-autos-prius-top-california-seller-20130122,0,6622427.story |title=Toyota Prius topples Honda Civic as bestselling car in California |first=Jerry |last=Hirsch |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=22 January 2013 |access-date=22 January 2013}}'' The sales figure includes the Prius liftback, Prius v, Prius c and Prius PHV.''</ref> The Prius [[nameplate]] was again in 2013 the best selling vehicle in California with 69,728 units sold in the state, ahead of the Honda Civic (66,982) and the [[Honda Accord]] (63,194).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20140213/RETAIL01/302139893/toyota-prius-keeps-calif-sales-crown-tesla-moves-up# |title=Toyota Prius keeps Calif. sales crown; Tesla moves up |work=[[Automotive News]] |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |date=13 February 2014 |access-date=16 February 2014}}</ref><ref name=Calif4Q2013>{{cite web |url=http://www.cncda.org/secure/GetFile.aspx?ID=2668 |title=California Auto Outlook: Fourth Quarter 2013 |publisher=California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) |date=February 2014 |access-date=16 February 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140217023349/http://www.cncda.org/secure/GetFile.aspx?ID=2668 |archive-date=17 February 2014}}</ref>

Toyota sold 223,905 Priuses among the various [[Hybrid electric vehicle|HEV]] family members in the US in 2012, representing together a [[market share]] of 51% of all hybrid sold in the country that year.<ref name=USales2011_12/> A total of 12,750 Prius [[PHEV]]s were sold in 2012, allowing the plug-in hybrid to rank as the second top selling [[plug-in electric car]] in the US after the [[Chevrolet Volt]], and surpassing the [[Nissan Leaf]].<ref name=PEVUSales2012>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1081419_plug-in-electric-car-sales-triple-in-2013-as-buyers-models-increase |title=Plug-In Electric Car Sales Triple in 2012 As Buyers, Models Increase |first=John |last=Voelcker |publisher=Green Car Reports |date=3 January 2013 |access-date=17 January 2013}}</ref> The Toyota Prius liftback, with 147,503 units sold, was the best selling hybrid in 2012, the [[Prius v]] ranked third with 40,669 units, and the [[Prius c]] was fourth with 35,733 units.<ref name=USales2011_12/> Toyota USA estimated that sales of its hybrids models in 2012 would represent 14% of total Toyota sales in the country.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2012/11/28/toyotas-jim-lentz-future-wireless-charging-cng-hydrogen/ |title=Toyota's Jim Lentz looks into the future of wireless charging, CNG and more hydrogen |first=Sebastian |last=Blanco |publisher=Autoblog Green |date=28 November 2012 |access-date=28 November 2012}}</ref> Since their inception in 1999, a total of 1.5 million Prius family members have been sold in the US by mid October 2013,<ref name=USPrius1.5m>{{cite press release |url=http://pressroom.toyota.com/releases/2014+tioyota+prius+dominate+hybrid+oct2013.htm |title=2014 Toyota Prius Continues to Dominate the Hybrid Category |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=16 October 2013 |access-date=26 October 2013}}</ref> representing a 50.1% market share of total hybrid sales in the country. Of these, 1,356,318 are conventional Prius liftbacks sold through September 2013.<ref name=USales2011_12/><ref name=DoEHEV10/><ref name=Sales2011US>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/news/december-2011-dashboard-sales-still-climbing-35093.html |title=December 2011 Dashboard: Sales Still Climbing |publisher=HybridCARS.com |date=9 January 2012 |access-date=10 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120112045119/http://www.hybridcars.com/news/december-2011-dashboard-sales-still-climbing-35093.html |archive-date=12 January 2012}}</ref><ref name=Sales092013US>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/september-2013-dashboard/ |title=September 2013 Dashboard |first=Jeff |last=Cobb |publisher=HybridCars.com and Baum & Associates |date=3 October 2013 |access-date=26 October 2013}} ''See the section: September 2013 Hybrid Car Sales Numbers: A total of 389,910 hybrid vehicles were sold in the US between January and September 2013.''</ref>

Prius family sales also set a record in Japan in March 2012. Accounting for the conventional Prius and Prius α sales, a total of 45,496 units were sold in March 2012, becoming the highest monthly sales ever for any model in Japan since 1997, and representing a market share of 9% of all new car registrations excluding kei cars. The Toyota Aqua sold 29,156 units, ranking as the third top selling car that month. Together, all Prius family vehicles sold 74,652 units, representing 15% of monthly new car sales in March 2012.<ref name=Sales0312JP>{{cite web |url=http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/ranking/index.php |title=Passenger car sales ranking |language=ja |publisher=[[Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association]] |access-date=8 April 2012 |archive-date=5 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130805082748/http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/ranking.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> With a total of 247,230 vehicles sold during the first quarter of 2012, the Toyota Prius family became the third top selling [[Nameplate (automotive)|nameplate]] in the world in terms of total global sales, after the [[Toyota Corolla]] (300,800 units) and the [[Ford Focus]] (277,000 units).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.torquenews.com/106/toyota-prius-becomes-3rd-bestselling-nameplate-world |title=Toyota Prius becomes 3rd bestselling nameplate in the world |first=Patrick |last=Rall |work=Torque News |date=30 May 2012 |access-date=5 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.cbt.com.my/2012/05/30/corolla-worlds-top-selling-nameplate-focus-worlds-best-selling-model/ |title=Corolla World's Top Selling Nameplate, Focus World's Best Selling Model |first=Hans |last=Cheong |work=[[New Sunday Times]] |date=30 May 2012 |access-date=5 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131026062627/http://www.cbt.com.my/2012/05/30/corolla-worlds-top-selling-nameplate-focus-worlds-best-selling-model/ |archive-date=26 October 2013}}</ref>

; Since 2012 US Prius sales have declined every year since their peak in 2012, due to competition from other manufacturers.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-06-03/prius-preeminence-fades-as-hybrid-bets-shift-to-suvs-from-sedans |title=Prius Sales Are Falling, But Hybrids Are More Popular Than Ever |first=Keith |last=Naughton |work=Bloomberg |location=US |date=3 June 2019 |access-date=15 December 2020}}</ref>

=== Liftback sales === {| class="wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto" ! rowspan="2" style="text-align:center; background:#cfc;" | Calendar year ! colspan="6" |Annual Prius liftback sales worldwide and by region (in thousands) |- ! style="background:#cfc;"|World<ref name=TMC9mi/> ! style="background:#cfc;"|Japan<ref name=TMC9mi/> ! style="background:#cfc;"|US<ref name=DoEHEV10/> ! style="background:#cfc;"|Europe{{efn-lr|Toyota Motor Europe: Europe including Russia and Turkey + Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Israel}}<ref name=TMC9mi/> ! style="background:#cfc;"|Canada<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.goodcarbadcar.net/2011/01/toyota-prius-sales-figures.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529123005/http://www.goodcarbadcar.net/2011/01/toyota-prius-sales-figures|archive-date=29 May 2018 |title=Toyota Prius Sales Figures - Canada |first=Timothy |last=Cain |publisher=Good Car Bad Car |date=May 2016 |access-date=29 May 2016}}</ref> ! style="background:#cfc;"|Other<ref name=TMC9mi/> |- align=center | 1997 || 0.3 || 0.3 ||   ||   ||   ||   |- align=center | 1998 || 17.7 || 17.7 ||   ||  ||   ||   |- align=center | 1999 || 15.2 || 15.2 ||   ||   ||   ||   |- align=center | 2000 || 19.0 || 12.5 || 5.6 || 0.7 || 0.2 || 0.01 |- align=center | 2001 || 29.5 || 11.0|| 15.6 || 2.3 || 0.4 || 0.2 |- align=center | 2002 || 28.1 || 6.7 || 20.1 || 0.8 || 0.2 || 0.2 |- align=center | 2003 || 43.2 || 17.0 || 24.6 || 0.9 || 0.3 || 0.4 |- align=center | 2004 || 125.7 || 59.8 || 54.0 || 8.1 || 1.9 || 1.9 |- align=center | 2005 || 175.2 || 43.7 || 107.9 || 18.8 || 2.0 || 2.9 |- align=center | 2006 || 185.6 || 48.6 || 107.0 || 22.8 || 2.0 || 5.3 |- align=center | 2007 || 281.3 || 58.3 || 181.2 || 32.2 || 2.6 || 7.0 |- align=center | 2008 || 285.7 || 73.1 || 158.6 || 41.5 || 4.5 || 7.7 |- align=center | 2009 || 404.2 || 208.9 || 139.7 || 42.6 || 4.6 || 8.4 |- align=center | 2010 || 509.4 || 315.4 || 140.9<ref name=DoEHEV10/> || 42.0 || 3.0 || 8.1 |- align=center | 2011 || 368.4 || 197.4 || 128.1<ref name=USales2011_12/>|| 24.9 || 1.6 || 16.6 |- align=center | 2012 || 362.8 || 176.9 || 147.5<ref name=USales2011_12>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2012-dashboard |title=December 2012 Dashboard |first=Jeff |last=Cobb |publisher=HybridCars.com and Baum & Associates |date=8 January 2013 |access-date=14 April 2013}} ''See the section: December 2012 Hybrid Car Sales Numbers.''</ref>|| 19.4 || 3.4 || 15.7 |-align=center | 2013 || 315.5 || 145.2 || 145.2<ref name=Sales2013US>{{cite web |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2013-dashboard/ |title=December 2013 Dashboard |first=Jeff |last=Cobb |publisher=HybridCars.com and Baum & Associates |date=6 January 2014 |access-date=3 May 2014}}</ref> || 11.6 || 2.1 || 11.3 |- align=center | 2014 || 242.0 || 101.9 || 122.8<ref name=Sales2014US>{{cite news |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2014-dashboard/ |title=December 2014 Dashboard |first=Jeff |last=Cobb |work=HybridCars.com and Baum & Associates |date=6 January 2015 |access-date=25 August 2015}}</ref> || 6.7 || 1.8 || 8.8 |- align=center | 2015 || 203.3 || 73.9 || 113.8<ref name=Sales2015US>{{cite news |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2015-dashboard/ |title=December 2015 Dashboard |first=Jeff |last=Cobb |work=HybridCars and Baum & Associates |date=6 January 2016 |access-date=23 May 2016}}</ref> || 6.8 || 1.6 || 7.1 |- align=center | 2016 || 354.5 || 248.2 || 98.8<ref name=Sales072016US>{{cite web|url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2016-dashboard/|title=December 2016 Dashboard|work=HybridCars.com|access-date=12 August 2016}}</ref> || 17.1<ref>{{Cite press release |url=http://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-tme-sold-928500-vehicles-in-2016-with-best-ever-sales-for-hybrids-and-lexus/ |title=Toyota Motor Europe (TME) sold 928,500 vehicles in 2016 with best-ever sales for Hybrids and Lexus |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe |date=6 January 2017 |access-date=11 February 2018}}</ref>|| 2.9 || 3.0 |- align=center | 2017 || || 160.9<ref>{{Cite web |title=2017 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models and Mini Cars - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2017-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models-mini-cars/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 65.6<ref name=Sales2017US>{{cite web|url=http://www.hybridcars.com/december-2017-dashboard/|title=December 2017 Dashboard|work=HybridCars.com|access-date=9 February 2016}}</ref> || 12.2<ref>{{Cite press release |url=http://newsroom.toyota.eu/2017-toyota-motor-europe-tme-sales-reach-the-1-million-mark-with-over-40-hybrid-ev-sales/ |title=2017 Toyota Motor Europe (TME) sales reach the 1 million mark with over 40% Hybrid EV sales |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe |date=10 January 2018 |access-date=11 February 2018}}</ref>|| 1.1 || |- align=center | 2018 || || 115.5<ref>{{Cite web |title=2018 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models and Mini Cars - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2018-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models-and-mini-cars/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 87.5<ref name="2018ToyotaUSsales">{{cite press release |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/december-2018-sales-chart/ |title=December 2018 Sales Chart |publisher=Toyota |location=USA |date=3 January 2019|access-date=5 January 2019}}</ref> || 10.1<ref>{{Cite press release |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-approaching-half-a-million-sales-of--self-charging-hybrid-electric-vehicles-in-2018/ |title=Toyota Motor Europe approaching half a million sales of self-charging hybrid electric vehicles in 2018 |publisher=Toyota Motor Europe |location=Brussels, Belgium|date=10 January 2019 |access-date=2 March 2020}}</ref> || || |- align=center | 2019 || || 125.6<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2019-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 69.7<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2020-01-03 |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports December 2019, Year-End Sales |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-december-2019-year-end-sales/ |access-date=2025-03-13 |publisher=Toyota |location=US}}</ref>|| 5.3<ref>{{Cite press release |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-outperforms-market-and-posts-strong-growth-in-2019-reaching-53-market-share/ |title=Toyota Motor Europe outperforms market and posts strong growth in 2019, reaching 5.3% market share |publisher=Toyota Motor Europe |location=Brussels, Belgium|date=13 January 2020 |access-date=25 February 2020}}</ref> || 2.0<ref>{{Cite press release |url=http://media.toyota.ca/releases/toyota-canada-inc-ends-the-decade-with-its-best-year-ever-237-091-vehicles-sold-in-2019-up-2-4 |title=Toyota Canada Inc. Ends the Decade with its Best Year Ever: 237,091 Vehicles Sold in 2019, Up 2.4% |publisher=Toyota Canada |location=Toronto, Ontario|date=3 January 2020 |access-date=2 March 2020}}</ref> || |- align=center | 2020 || || 67.3<ref>{{Cite web |title=2020 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2020-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 43.5<ref name=usSales21>{{cite press release |author= |date=4 January 2022 |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports U.S. December, Year-End 2021 Sales |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-u-s-december-year-end-2021-sales/ |location=Plano, TX |publisher=Toyota |agency= |access-date=4 January 2022}}</ref> || 3.2<ref>{{Cite press release |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-significantly-outperforms-the-market-in-2020-gaining-07-percentage-points-to-achieve-a-record-60-share/ |title=Toyota Motor Europe significantly outperforms the market in 2020, gaining 0.7 percentage points to achieve a record 6.0% share |publisher=Toyota Motor Europe |location=Brussels, Belgium |date=15 January 2021 |access-date=30 January 2021}}</ref> || || |- align=center | 2021 || || 49.2<ref>{{Cite web |title=2021 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2021-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 59.0<ref name=usSales21/> || 3.1<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Toyota sales increase +8% in 2021, record 6.4% market share |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-sales-increase-by-8-in-2021-to-achieve-a-record-64-market-share/ |access-date=16 October 2023 |website=Toyota sales increase +8% in 2021, record 6.4% market share |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe}}</ref>|| || |- - align=center | 2022 || || 32.7<ref>{{Cite web |title=2022 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2022-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 36.9<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports Year-End 2022 U.S. Sales Results |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-year-end-2022-u-s-sales-results/ |access-date=24 October 2024 |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=4 January 2023}}</ref> || |1.6<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Toyota Europe's market share increases to a record 7.3% |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europes-market-share-increases-to-a-record-73-in-2022-09-points-year-on-year/ |access-date=16 October 2023 |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe}}</ref>|| | |- - align=center | 2023 || || 99.1<ref>{{Cite web |title=2023 (Full Year) Japan: Best-Selling Car Models - Car Sales Statistics |url=https://www.best-selling-cars.com/japan/2023-full-year-japan-best-selling-car-models/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=www.best-selling-cars.com}}</ref>|| 38.1<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports Year-End 2023 U.S. Sales Results |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-2023-u-s-sales-results/ |access-date=25 October 2024 |publisher=Toyota |location=US |date=3 January 2024}}</ref> || 2.7<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2024-01-23 |title=Toyota Motor Europe posts all-time sales record in 2023 |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-posts-all-time-sales-record-of-1173419-vehicles-in-2023/ |access-date=2025-03-13 |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe}}</ref>|| | |- - align=center |2024 | |83.5 |44.7<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2025-01-03 |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports 2024 U.S. Sales Results |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-2024-u-s-sales-results/ |access-date=2025-03-13 |publisher=Toyota |location=US}}</ref> |3.1<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2025-01-15 |title=Toyota's multi-pathway approach leads to record sales |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/multi-pathway-approach-to-co2-reduction-leads-to-all-time-sales-record-for-toyota-motor-europe-in-2024/ |access-date=2025-03-13 |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe}}</ref> | | |- - align=center |2025 | | |56.5<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2026-01-05 |title=Toyota Motor North America Reports 2025 U.S. Sales Results |url=https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota-motor-north-america-reports-2025-u-s-sales-results/ |access-date=2026-01-26 |website=Toyota |location=US}}</ref> |3.1<ref>{{Cite press release |date=2026-01-14 |title=Toyota Motor Europe posts all-time record sales of 1,229,000 vehicles in 2025 |url=https://newsroom.toyota.eu/toyota-motor-europe-posts-all-time-record-sales-of-1229000-vehicles-in-2025/ |access-date=2026-01-29 |website=Toyota |location=Europe}}</ref> | | |} <references group="lower-roman" responsive="1"></references>

=== Sales of non-liftback === The following table presents retail sales of the other vehicles of the Prius family by year since deliveries began in 2011 through December 2016.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto"

! colspan="5" style="text-align:center; background:#abcdef;"|Annual sales of other Prius family vehicles by year between 2011 and December 2016<ref name=TMC10miHEVs/><ref name=TMC9mi>{{cite press release |title=実績データ（ハイブリッド車グローバル販売） |language=ja |trans-title=Actual data (global sales hybrid vehicles) |url=http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/jp/detail/4061096/ |location=[[Toyota, Aichi]] |publisher=Toyota |date=20 May 2016 |access-date=29 May 2016 |archive-date=5 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141105114507/http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/jp/detail/4061096/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=TMC10mi>{{cite press release |title=実績データ（ハイブリッド車グローバル販売） |language=ja |trans-title=Actual data (global sales hybrid vehicles) |url=http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/jp/download/15061526 |location=[[Toyota, Aichi]] |publisher=Toyota |date=14 February 2017 |access-date=21 February 2017 |archive-date=3 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180703021906/https://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/jp/download/15061526 |url-status=dead }} ''Download the pdf file with sales by year for each model. Source for 2016 sales only. January 2017 sales were discounted from total.''</ref> |- ! style="background:#ABCDEF;" |Year||style="background:#ABCDEF;"| Total ||style="background:#abcdef; width:100px;"|Toyota Prius v/α/+|| style="background:#abcdef; width:100px;"| Toyota Aqua/Prius c(2)|| style="background:#abcdef; width:100px;"|Toyota Prius PHV |-align=center | 2011 || 64,660 || 64,299 || 361 ||   |-align=center | 2012 || 529,674 || 186,989 || 315,406 || 27,279 |-align=center | 2013 || 493,104 || 153,832 || 317,891 || 21,381 |-align=center | 2014 || 419,393 || 117,647 || 281,867 || 19,879 |-align=center | 2015|| 358,992 || 91,913 || 260,572 || 6,507 |-align=center | 2016 || 249,388 || 53,000 || 194,000 || 2,388 |-align=center | style="background:#f1f5fa;"|'''Total by model'''(1)<ref name=TMC10miHEVs/><ref name=TMC10mi/> ||style="background:#f1f5fa;"| '''2,116,865''' ||style="background:#f1f5fa;"| '''668,494''' || style="background:#f1f5fa;"| '''1,370,937''' ||style="background:#f1f5fa;"|'''77,434'''  |-align=left | colspan="5" |'''Notes:''' (1) Global cumulative sales for the Prius nameplate, when the Prius liftback is included, adds up to 6.115 million units through December 2016.<ref name=PriusTop>{{ cite web | url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2016/05/20160520-tmc.html | title=Worldwide sales of Toyota hybrids surpass 9 million units; Prius family accounts for 63% | first=Mike | last=Millikin | publisher=Green Car Congress | date=20 May 2016|access-date=22 May 2016}} ''The Prius family accounts for 63% of Toyota's total global cumulative hybrid car sales: 5.691 million units, consisting of Prius liftback: 3.733 million; Aqua, Prius c: 1.249 million; Prius a, Prius v, Prius +: 0.634 million; Prius PHV: 75,000.''</ref> (2) Not available in Europe, instead, Toyota is selling the [[Toyota Yaris Hybrid]] which shares the same powertrain as the Prius c.<ref name=ToyotaEU0912>{{cite press release |url=http://newsroom.toyota.eu/pressrelease/2971/1/toyota-motor-europe-posts-13-sales-increase-q3 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130213100909/http://newsroom.toyota.eu/pressrelease/2971/1/toyota-motor-europe-posts-13-sales-increase-q3 |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 February 2013 |title=Toyota Motor Europe Posts 13% Sales Increase in Q3 |publisher=Toyota |location=Europe |date=9 October 2012 |access-date=21 October 2012 }}</ref> A total of 302,700 Yaris Hybrids have been sold through December 2016.<ref name=TMC10miHEVs/><ref name=TMC10mi/> |}

== Design and technology == {{See also|Hybrid Synergy Drive}} [[File:Hybrid Toyota Prius 61 MIA 12 2008 with logo.jpg|thumb|right|The Toyota Prius [[Hybrid Synergy Drive]] is a [[Series-parallel hybrid|series-parallel full hybrid]], sometimes referred to as a combined hybrid.]]

The Prius is a [[Series-parallel hybrid|power-split or series-parallel (full) hybrid]], sometimes referred to as a combined hybrid, a vehicle that can be propelled by petrol or electric power or both. Wind resistance is reduced by a {{Cd|long=yes|link=yes|0.25}} (0.29 for 2000 model) with a [[Kammback]] design to reduce air resistance. Lower rolling-resistance tyres are used to reduce road friction. An electric water pump eliminates [[serpentine belt]]s.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/minisite/prius/#/specs/ |title=Toyota Specs |publisher=Toyota.com |access-date=1 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090503180452/http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/minisite/prius/#/specs/ |archive-date=3 May 2009}}</ref> In the US and Canada, a [[vacuum flask]] is used to store hot [[coolant]] when the vehicle is powered off for reuse so as to reduce warm-up time. The Prius engine makes use of the [[Atkinson cycle]].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=2722 |date=8 September 2008 |title=Our Point of View: Atkinson Meets Otto: Why the Prius is So Efficient |publisher=Toyota |location=US |access-date=2 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170928102857/http://pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=2722 |archive-date=28 September 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== EV mode === When the vehicle is turned on with the "Power" button, it is ready to drive immediately with the electric motor. In the North American second generation Prius, electric pumps warm the engine by pumping previously saved hot engine coolant from a coolant thermos<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/hybrid_technology.html |title=Motor Trend 2004 Car of the Year Winner: Toyota Prius |work=Motor Trend |access-date=6 July 2011 |archive-date=11 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011031336/http://www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/car/112_04_coy_win/hybrid_technology.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> before the internal combustion engine is started. The delay between powering the car on and starting the internal combustion engine is a few seconds.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1065557_buying-a-used-toyota-prius-heres-what-you-need-to-know|title=Buying A Used Toyota Prius? Here's What You Need To Know|first=Nikki|last=Gordon-Bloomfield|date=2 August 2011|website=Green Car Reports}}</ref> The third generation Prius does not have a coolant thermos. Instead, the engine is heated by recapturing exhaust heat. A button labelled "EV" maintains Electric Vehicle mode after being powered on and under most low-load conditions at less than {{cvt|25|mph}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1032647_first-drive-2010-toyota-prius |title=First drive: 2010 Toyota Prius |first=Nelson |last=Ireson |website=Motor Authority |date=25 March 2009}}</ref> This permits driving with low noise and no fuel consumption for journeys under {{convert|0.5|mi}},<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.toyota.com/prius/ |title=Toyota Prius - Disclosures |publisher=Toyota |location=US |quote=EV Mode works under certain conditions at low speeds for up to one-half mile}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.auto-brochures.com/makes/Toyota/Prius/Toyota_US%20Prius_2011.pdf|title=Prius 2011|publisher=Toyota |location=US |year=2010 |access-date=30 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.toyota.com/content/ebrochure/2018/prius_ebrochure.pdf |title=MY18 Prius eBrochure |publisher=Toyota |location=US |year=2017 |access-date=30 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/kelleybluebook/2016/12/19/2017-toyota-prius-captivating-enough-to-engage-a-car-guy|date=19 December 2016|title=2017 Toyota Prius: Captivating Enough To Engage A Car Guy?|work=Forbes|first=Michael|last=Harley}}</ref> Longer journeys are possible as long as the speed is kept below {{cvt|25|mph}}, acceleration is kept low and the battery has enough charge. The engine starts automatically when the battery starts to run low. Prior to the 2010 model, the North American model did not have the "EV" button, although one can be added to enable the "EV" mode supported internally by the Prius Hybrid Vehicle management computer.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1019740_30-days-of-the-2010-toyota-prius-day-5-the-10-best-things|title=30 Days of the 2010 Toyota Prius: Day 5, The 10 Best Things|first=John|last=Voelcker|date=29 March 2009|website=Green Car Reports}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hybridcars.com/top-7-aftermarket-mpg-boosting-prius-accessories-26229/|title=Top 7 Aftermarket MPG-Boosting Prius Accessories|first=Brad|last=Berman|date=12 November 2009|website=HybridCars}}</ref> For the North American market, the third generation can remain in EV mode until {{cvt|70|km/h|mph|0}} depending on throttle and road gradient.{{citation needed|date=March 2019}}

=== Batteries === [[File:Ni-MH Battery 01.JPG|thumb|Battery pack from the second generation Prius]]

There are two batteries: the high voltage (HV) battery pack, also known as the traction battery, and a 12-volt battery known as the low voltage (LV) battery. The traction battery of the first generation Prius update (2000 onwards) was a [[seal (mechanical)|sealed]] 38-module [[nickel metal hydride]] (NiMH) [[rechargeable battery|battery]] pack with a capacity of 1.78{{nbsp}}kWh at a voltage of 273.6{{nbsp}}V, and weighing {{cvt|53.3|kg|lb}}<ref name="cgcc">{{cite web |title=Toyota Prius II Battery Pack |publisher=The Clean Green Car Company |url=http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-battery-pack |access-date=30 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080225234612/http://www.cleangreencar.co.nz/page/prius-battery-pack |archive-date=25 February 2008}}</ref> and is supplied by Japan's [[Panasonic EV Energy Co]]. They are normally charged between 40 and 60% of maximum capacity to prolong battery life as well as allow headroom for [[regenerative braking]]. Each battery pack uses {{cvt|10|-|15|kg|0}} of [[lanthanum]], and each Prius electric motor contains {{cvt|1|kg|0}} of [[neodymium]]; production of the car has been described as "the biggest user of [[Rare earth element|rare earths]] of any object in the world."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mining-toyota-idUSTRE57U02B20090831 |title=As hybrid cars gobble rare metals, shortage looms |date=31 August 2009 |first=Steve |last=Gorman |work=Reuters |access-date=17 April 2011}}</ref> The LV battery provides power to the computer and various accessories such as wiper motors, headlights etc.

The Second Generation Prius contains a 1.31{{nbsp}}kWh battery, composed of 28 modules. Each battery module is made of six individual 1.2{{nbsp}}V 6.5{{nbsp}}Ah Prismatic NiMH cells in series forming a 7.2{{nbsp}}V 6.5{{nbsp}}Ah module with 46{{nbsp}}Wh/kg energy density and 1.3{{nbsp}}kW/kg output power density.<ref>{{cite web |title=Battery Module NP2 |publisher=Primearth EV Energy Co., Ltd. |url=http://www.peve.jp/en/product/np2/index.html |access-date=12 July 2015 |archive-date=13 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713061818/http://www.peve.jp/en/product/np2/index.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> Each module contains an integrated charge controller and relay. These modules are connected 28 in series to form a 201.6{{nbsp}}V 6.5{{nbsp}}Ah battery (traction battery), also known as the energy storage system. The computer-controlled charge controller and battery management computer systems keep this battery between 38% and 82% state of charge, with a tendency to keep the average state of charge around 60%. By shallow cycling the battery, only a small portion of its net available energy storage capacity is available for use (approximately 400{{nbsp}}Wh) by the hybrid drive system, but the shallow computer-controlled cycling dramatically improves the cycle life, thermal management control, and net long term calendar life of the battery. Active cooling of this battery is achieved by a blower motor and air ducting, while passive thermal management was accomplished through the metal case design.{{citation needed|date=August 2022}}

=== Battery life cycle === As the Prius reached ten years of being available in the US market, in February 2011 ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' examined the lifetime and replacement cost of the Prius battery. The magazine tested a 2002 Toyota Prius with over {{convert|200,000|miles|km|order=flip|-4|abbr=in}} on it and compared the results to the nearly identical 2001 Prius with {{convert|2,000|miles|km|order=flip|-2|abbr=in}} tested by ''Consumer Reports'' 10 years before. The comparison showed little difference in performance when tested for fuel economy and acceleration. Overall [[fuel economy in automobiles|fuel economy]] of the 2001 model was {{convert|40.6|mpgus}} while the 2002 Prius with high mileage delivered {{convert|40.4|mpgus}}. The magazine concluded that the effectiveness of the battery has not degraded over the long run.<ref name=CR2011>{{cite news |url=http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/02/200000-mile-toyota-prius-still-performs.html |title=The 200,000-mile question: How does the Toyota Prius hold up? |first=Jake |last=Fisher |publisher=[[Consumer Reports]] |date=16 February 2011 |access-date=26 February 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110220062651/http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/02/200000-mile-toyota-prius-still-performs.html |archive-date=20 February 2011}}</ref> The cost of replacing the first generation battery varies between {{USD|2,200}} and {{USD|2,600}} from a Toyota dealer, but low-use units from salvage yards are available for around {{USD|500}}.<ref name=CR2011/> One study indicates it may be worthwhile to rebuild batteries using good blades from defective used batteries.<ref name=PriusBattRebuild>{{cite journal |title=Failure analysis of some Toyota Prius battery packs and potential for recovery |journal=Waikato University Research Commons |last1=Leijen |first1=Peter |last2=Scott |first2=Jonathan|series=SAE Technical Paper Series |year=2013 |volume=1 |article-number=2013-01-2561 |doi=10.4271/2013-01-2561 |hdl=10289/5714 |hdl-access=free |issn=0148-7191 }}</ref>

=== Air conditioning (HVAC) === The [[HVAC]] system uses an AC [[induction motor]] to drive a sealed-system [[scroll compressor]], a design principle not usually used in automotive applications. Using a scroll compressor increases the efficiency of the system while driving it with an AC induction motor makes the system more flexible, so the [[Automobile air conditioning|AC]] can run while the engine is off. Because the oil used with the refrigerant gas also flows in the area of the high-voltage motor-windings, the fluid must be electrically insulating to avoid transmitting electric current to exposed metal parts of the system. Therefore, Toyota specifies that a [[polyolester]] (POE) oil (designated ND11)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hecatinc.com/ToolsTechnologyAprMay09.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404185035/http://www.hecatinc.com/ToolsTechnologyAprMay09.pdf |url-status=usurped |archive-date=4 April 2016 |title=Hybrid A/C Repair |publisher=ToolingUp |first=Craig |last=Van Batenburg |date=1 April 2009 |access-date=1 April 2009}}</ref> is required for repairs. The system cannot be serviced with equipment normally employed for regular cars, which typically use polyalkylene glycol (PAG) oil, as the equipment would contaminate the ND11 oil with PAG oil. According to SAE J2843, the oil provided from maintenance equipment must contain less than 0.1% PAG when filling. One percent PAG oil may result in an electrical resistance drop by a factor of about 10.<ref>{{cite web |last=Mavrigian |first=Mike |date=10 April 2013 |title=Hybrid vehicle air conditioning service |url=http://www.autoserviceprofessional.com/article/93187/Hybrid-vehicle-air-conditioning-service?Page=3 |access-date=10 April 2013 |publisher=Auto Service Professional |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025233100/https://www.autoserviceprofessional.com/article/93187/Hybrid-vehicle-air-conditioning-service?Page=3 |archive-date=25 October 2014}}</ref>

== Environmental impact == === Fuel economy and emissions === ; United States

Since its introduction, the Toyota Prius has been among the best fuel economy vehicles available in the United States, and for the [[model year]] 2012, the Prius family has three models among the 10 most fuel-efficient cars sold in the country as rated by [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|US Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA).<ref name=EPAtop10/> After the [[Honda Insight#ZE1|Honda Insight first generation]] was discontinued in September 2006, the Prius liftback became the most fuel-efficient car sold in the American market,<ref name=EPAtop10>{{cite web |url=http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/topten.jsp |title=Fueleconomy.gov Top Ten - Top Fuel Sippers (EPA Ratings, All Years) |publisher=[[US Environmental Protection Agency]] and [[US Department of Energy]] |date=24 March 2016 |access-date=24 March 2016}} ''Click on the link "Top Fuel Sippers (EPA Ratings, All Years)" Excludes all-electric vehicles''.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/epa-announces-top-10-most-fuel-efficient-cars-insight-takes-top/ |title=EPA reveals top 10 most fuel-efficient cars since 1984, original Honda Insight takes top honors |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=11 June 2010 |access-date=9 April 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Business/t/story?id=6631798&page=1 |title=Auto Show Notebook: New Prius gets 50 mpg |first1=Chris |last1=Woodyard |first2=James R. |last2=Healey |work=[[USA Today]] |date=14 January 2009 |access-date=9 April 2012}}</ref> until it was topped by the [[Chevrolet Volt]] in December 2010, as the [[plug-in hybrid]] was rated by EPA with an overall combined city/highway gasoline-electricity fuel economy of {{cvt|60|mpgus}}.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-gm-volt-idUSTRE6AN65K20101124 |title=Chevy Volt tops Prius in fuel economy rating |first1=David |last1=Bailey |first2=Kevin |last2=Krolicki |work=[[Reuters]] |date=10 April 2012 |access-date=8 April 2012}}</ref> According to the EPA, for the model year 2012, and when only petrol-powered vehicles are considered (excluding [[all-electric car]]s), the Prius c ranks as the most fuel-efficient [[compact car]], the Prius liftback as the most fuel-efficient [[mid-size car]], and the Prius v as the most fuel-efficient mid-size [[station wagon]].<ref name=EPABestClass>{{cite web |url=http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/best-worst.shtml |title=2012 Most and Least Efficient Vehicles |publisher=[[US Department of Energy]] and [[US Environmental Protection Agency]] |date=April 2010 |access-date=8 April 2012}} ''Click on the tab "Cars (excluding EVs)"''.</ref>

More fossil fuel is needed to build hybrid vehicles than conventional cars but reduced emissions when running the vehicle more than outweigh this.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/does-hybrid-car-production-waste-offset-hybrid-benefits.htm|title=Does hybrid car production waste offset hybrid benefits?|date=6 December 2010|website=HowStuffWorks}}</ref>

{{center|'''Economic and environmental performance comparison among Prius family models sold in the US (model year 2001–2021)<ref name=EPAratings/><ref name=EPAratePHEV/>'''}} {| class="sortable wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto" |- style="text-align:center;" ! style="background:#cfc;"| Vehicle || style="background:#cfc;"| [[Model year|Model year]] || style="background:#cfc;"|[[United States Environmental Protection Agency|EPA]] city [[fuel economy in automobiles|mileage]] ([[Miles per gallon|mpg]])|| style="background:#cfc;"| EPA highway [[fuel economy in automobiles|mileage]] ([[Miles per gallon|mpg]])|| style="background:#cfc;"| Tailpipe {{CO2|link=yes}} [[Motor vehicle emissions|emissions]] ||style="background:#cfc;"| EPA [[United States emission standards#Air pollution score|air pollution score]] Calif/others(1)|| style="background:#cfc;"|Annual petroleum use ([[Oil barrel|barrel]]) |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW10)|Prius 1st gen (NHW11)]]|| 2001–2003 || {{cvt|42|mpgUS |L/100km}}||{{cvt|41|mpgUS|L/100km}} || {{cvt|217|g/mi|g/km}} || {{NA}} ||8.0 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW20)|Prius 2nd gen (XW20)]]|| 2004–2009 || {{cvt|48|mpgUS|L/100km}}||{{cvt|45|mpgUS|L/100km}}|| {{cvt|193|g/mi|g/km}} || 9/7 LEV-II SULEV ||7.2 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW30)|Prius 3rd gen (XW30)]]|| 2010–2015 || {{cvt|51|mpgUS|L/100km}}||{{cvt|48|mpgUS|L/100km}}|| {{cvt|178|g/mi|g/km}} || 9/7 SULEV II ||6.6 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW50)|Prius 4th gen (XW50)]]|| 2016–2021 || {{cvt|54|mpgUS|L/100km}}||{{cvt|50|mpgUS|L/100km}}|| {{cvt|170|g/mi|g/km}} || 9/7 California LEV-III SULEV30/PZEV ||6.3 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius v|Prius v (ZVW41)]]|| 2012 ||{{cvt|44|mpgUS|L/100km}} ||{{cvt|40|mpgUS|L/100km}} || {{cvt|212|g/mi|g/km}} || 8/7 LEV-II SULEV ||7.8 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius c|Prius c (NHP10)]]|| 2012 || {{cvt|53|mpgUS|L/100km}} ||{{cvt|46|mpgUS|L/100km}} || {{cvt|178|g/mi|g/km}} || {{NA}} ||6.6 |- style="text-align:center;" | rowspan="2" style="text-align:left;"|[[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid|Prius Plug-in Hybrid (ZVW35)]]|| rowspan="2"| 2012|| style="background:#f0f0ff;"|Gasoline equivalent in EV mode ([[Blended mode|blended operation]])|| style="background:#f0f0ff;"|[[Hybrid electric vehicle|Hybrid mode]] (combined)|| rowspan="2" | {{cvt|133|g/mi|g/km}} || style="background:#f0f0ff;"|[[All-electric range]] ([[blended mode]])|| |- style="text-align:center;" | {{cvt|95|mpge|lk=in}} || {{cvt|50|mpgUS|L/100km}}||{{cvt|11|mi}}|| |- | colspan="7" style="text-align:left; background:#cfc;"|Source: [[US Department of Energy]] and [[US Environmental Protection Agency]]<ref name="EPAratings">{{cite web |date=15 September 2020 |title=Hybrid Vehicles: Compare side-by-side |url=https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&id=16705&id=19813&id=26425&id=37163 |access-date=8 April 2012 |publisher=[[US Department of Energy]] and [[US Environmental Protection Agency]]}}''Click on 2001, 2004, 2010, and 2012 models. See also here [https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/PowerSearch.do?action=HySbs]''</ref><ref name=EPAratePHEV>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2012/02/prius-20120228.html |title=Prius Plug-In eligibile for a $1,500 California consumer incentive plus $2,500 Federal tax credit |location=US |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=28 February 2012 |access-date=8 April 2012}}</ref> All ratings correspond to [[fuel economy in automobiles#EPA testing procedure: 2008 and beyond|EPA 5-cycle testing procedure (2008 and beyond)]]. Note: (1) First score is for California and Northeastern states, the second score is for the other states and D.C. [[Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle]] (SULEV) is a US classification for conventionally powered vehicles designed to produce minimal emissions of certain categories of air pollution. |}

; Japan The following table presents fuel economy performance and [[carbon emissions]] for all Prius family models sold in Japan since 1997. The ratings are presented for both, the older official [[Japanese 10-15 Mode|10-15 mode cycle test]] and the new [[Japanese JC08 test|JC08 test]] designed for Japan's new standards that went into effect in 2015, but was already being used by several car manufacturers for new cars. The [[Toyota Prius (XW20)|Prius 2nd generation]] became the first car to meet Japan's new 2015 Fuel Economy Standards measured under the JC08 test.<ref name=GCC07>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2007/08/prius-certified.html |title=Prius Certified to Japanese 2015 Fuel Economy Standards with JC08 Test Cycle |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=11 August 2007 |access-date=9 April 2012}}</ref>

{{center|''' Fuel economy and {{CO2}} emissions comparison among Prius family models sold in Japan (years 1997–2012)'''}} {| class="sortable wikitable" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto" |- style="text-align:center;" ! style="background:#cfc;"| Vehicle || style="background:#cfc;"|Production year||style="background:#cfc;"|Official [[Fuel economy in automobiles#10–15 mode|10-15 mode test]] (km per litre)|| style="background:#cfc;"| New [[Japanese JC08 test|JC08 test]] (km per litre) || style="background:#cfc;"| Tailpipe [[Motor vehicle emissions|emissions]] (grams per km {{CO2}}) [[Fuel economy in automobiles#10–15 mode|10-15 mode test]] || style="background:#cfc;"| Tailpipe [[Motor vehicle emissions|emissions]] (grams per km {{CO2}}) [[Japanese JC08 test|JC08 test]] |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW10)|Prius 1st gen (NHW10)]]<ref name=Prius1gen>{{cite web |url=http://www.efonet.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_details&gid=60&Itemid=41 |title=Evolving to Achieve Maturity and Diversity toward the Hybrid Era: Prius & Estima Hybrid |publisher=Toyota |via=Efonet |year=2001 |access-date=10 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160208174540/http://www.efonet.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_details&gid=60&Itemid=41 |archive-date=8 February 2016 |url-status=dead}} pp. 73 - ''download the paper''</ref>|| 1997–2001||{{cvt|28|km/L |mpgUS}}||{{NA}}||{{NA}} ||{{NA}} |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW10)|Prius 1st gen (NHW11)]]<ref name=Prius1gen/>|| 2001–2003||{{cvt|29|km/L|mpgUS}}||{{NA}}||{{NA}}||{{NA}} |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW20)|Prius 2nd gen (XW20)]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/07/Aug/nt07_044.html |title=TOYOTA、プリウスが「2015年度燃費基準」を達成|trans-title=TOYOTA, the Prius achieve "fiscal 2015 fuel economy standards" |language=ja |publisher=Toyota |location=Japan |date=10 August 2007 |access-date=10 April 2012}}</ref>|| 2004–2009|| {{cvt|35.5|km/L|mpgUS}}||{{cvt|29.6|km/L|mpgUS}}||65||78 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius (XW30)|Prius 3rd gen (XW30)]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/japanese-ratings-call-prius-worlds-most-efficient-car-89-4-mpg/ |title=Japanese ratings call Prius world's most efficient car, 89.4 mpg (US)! |first=Sam |last=Abuelsamid |publisher=Autoblog Green |date=3 April 2009 |access-date=10 April 2012}}</ref>|| 2010–2012 ||{{cvt|38|km/L|mpgUS}}||{{cvt|32.6|km/L|mpgUS}}|| 61||71 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius v|Prius α (ZVW40)]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/13/toyota-prius-alpha-launches-in-japan-delivery-delays-expected/ |title=Toyota Prius Alpha launches in Japan; delivery delays expected |first=Eric |last=Loveday |publisher=Autoblog Green |date=13 May 2011 |access-date=10 April 2012}} ''See details in TMC press release''.</ref>|| 2011||{{cvt|31|km/L |mpgUS}}||{{cvt|26.2|km/L|mpgUS}}|| 75||89 |- style="text-align:center;" | align=left|[[Toyota Prius c|Toyota Aqua (NHP10)]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2011/12/aqua-20111226.html |title=Toyota launches Aqua compact hybrid in Japan; targeting 12,000 units per month in sales |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=26 December 2011 |access-date=10 April 2012}}</ref>|| 2012||{{cvt|40|km/L|mpgUS}}||{{cvt|35.4|km/L|mpgUS }}||{{NA}}||{{NA}} |- style="text-align:center;" | rowspan="2" style="text-align:left;"|[[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid|Prius Plug-in Hybrid (ZVW35)]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2011/11/toyota-starts-taking-orders-for-soon-to-be-launched-prius-phv-plug-in-hybrid-in-japan-targeting-3500.html |title=Toyota starts taking orders for soon-to-be-launched Prius PHV plug-in hybrid in Japan; targeting 35,000-40,000 units per year |publisher=Green Car Congress |date=29 November 2011 |access-date=10 April 2012}}</ref>||rowspan="2"| 2012|| style="background:#f0f0ff;"|Gasoline equivalent in EV mode ([[Blended mode|blended operation]])||style="background:#f0f0ff;"| [[Hybrid electric vehicle|Hybrid mode]] (charge-sustaining) || style="background:#f0f0ff;"|[[All-electric range]] ([[blended mode]]) || style="background:#f0f0ff;"| EV Mode [[Japanese JC08 test|JC08 Test]] (grams per km {{CO2}}) |- style="text-align:center;" | {{cvt|61|km/L|mpgUS}}|| {{cvt|31.6|km/L|mpgUS}}|| {{cvt|26.4|km|mi}} || 38 |}

=== Lifetime energy usage === In 2008, the British government and British media requested that Toyota release detailed figures for the energy use and {{CO2}} emissions resulting from the building and disposal of the Prius. Toyota has not supplied the requested data to address statements that the lifetime energy usage of the Prius (including the increased environmental cost of manufacture and disposal of the nickel-metal hydride battery) is outweighed by lower lifetime fuel consumption.<ref name="dt_20081011">{{cite news |title=Toyota Prius - green winner or loser? |first=Andrew |last=English |date=11 October 2008 |work=The Daily Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/news/3174258/Toyota-Prius---green-winner-or-loser.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012012401/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/news/3174258/Toyota-Prius---green-winner-or-loser.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 October 2008 |access-date=11 October 2008 |location=London}}</ref> Toyota states that lifetime {{CO2}} saving is 43 percent.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sustainability Report 2010 |url=http://www.toyota-global.com/sustainability/report/sr/10/pdf/sustainability_report10.pdf |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |year=2010}}</ref> {{As of|2010}}, the [[Government Car Service|UK Government Car Service]] operated over 100 Priuses (the largest part of its fleet) and lists the Prius as having the lowest {{CO2}} emissions among its fleet.<ref>{{cite web |publisher=Government Car and Despatch Agency |year=2010 |url=http://www.dft.gov.uk/gcda/docs/GCDA%20Annual%20report%20and%20accounts%202009-2010.pdf |title=GCDA Annual report and accounts 2009–2010 (see page 15) |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110203223944/http://www.dft.gov.uk/gcda/docs/GCDA%20Annual%20report%20and%20accounts%202009-2010.pdf |archive-date=3 February 2011}}</ref>

[[CNW Marketing Research]] initially published a study<ref>{{cite web |url=http://cnwmr.com/nss-folder/automotiveenergy/DUST%20PDF%20VERSION.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070626150704/http://cnwmr.com/nss-folder/automotiveenergy/DUST%20PDF%20VERSION.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 June 2007 |title=Dust to Dust |publisher=CNW Marketing Research |year=2006 }}</ref> in which they estimated that the total lifetime energy cost of a 2005 Prius was greater than that of a [[Hummer H2]]. The study has been widely debunked: see for example, "Hummer versus Prius: 'Dust to Dust' Report Misleads the Media and Public with Bad Science".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pacinst.org/topics/integrity_of_science/case_studies/hummer_vs_prius.pdf |title=Hummer versus Prius: 'Dust to Dust' Report Misleads the Media and Public with Bad Science |first=Peter H. |last=Gleick |year=2007|website=pacinst.org}}</ref>

=== Electromagnetic field levels === [[File:Toyota Prius cutmodel.JPG|thumb|Prius cutaway model showing forward engine connected to rear high voltage battery]]

The Prius uses electric motors in the hybrid propulsion systems, powered by a high voltage battery in the rear of the car. There has been some public concern over whether the levels of [[electromagnetic field]] exposure within the cabin are higher than comparable cars, and what health effects those fields may present, popularized by a 2008 ''[[The New York Times]]'' article.<ref name="NYT EMF">{{Cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/27/automobiles/27EMF.html |title=Fear, but Few Facts, on Hybrid Risk |date=27 April 2008 |first=Jim |last=Motavalli |work=The New York Times}}</ref> Toyota<ref name="NYT EMF"/> and several independent studies<ref name="Radiation Protection Dosimetry doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncq168">{{cite web |url=http://rpd.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2010/06/15/rpd.ncq168.abstract |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018113037/http://rpd.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2010/06/15/rpd.ncq168.abstract |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 October 2015 |title=Measurement and Analysis of Electromagnetic Fields from Trams, Trains and Hybrid Cars |publisher=Rpd.oxfordjournals.org |date=16 June 2010 |access-date=1 June 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/08/mythbuster-emf-levels-in-hybrids-.html |title=Mythbuster: EMF levels in hybrids |publisher=ConsumerReports.org |access-date=26 January 2011 |date=4 August 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101109021555/http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2010/08/mythbuster-emf-levels-in-hybrids-.html |archive-date=9 November 2010}}</ref> have indicated that aside from a brief spike when accelerating, the electromagnetic fields within the Prius are no different from those of a conventional car and do not exceed the [[ICNIRP]]<ref name="ICNIRP guidelines">{{cite web |url=http://www.icnirp.de/documents/LFgdl.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=15 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101231063007/http://www.icnirp.de/documents/LFgdl.pdf |archive-date=31 December 2010}}</ref> exposure guidelines.

A 2013 study by the [[Mayo Clinic]] found that patients with implanted cardiac devices such as [[pacemakers]] and [[defibrillators]] can safely drive or ride in hybrids or [[plug-in electric car]]s without risk of [[electromagnetic interference]] (EMI). The research was conducted using implantable devices from the three major manufacturers and a 2012 Toyota Prius hybrid. The study used 30 participants with implanted devices and measured electric and magnetic fields in six positions inside and outside the Prius, and each position was evaluated at different speeds.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://green.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/electric-drive-vehicles-pacemakers-defibrillators/ |title=Relax, electric-drive vehicles play nice with pacemakers, defibrillators |first=Danny |last=King |publisher=Autoblog Green |date=1 March 2013 |access-date=20 March 2013}} ''See more details in the Press Release.''</ref>

=== Quietness === {{See also|Electric vehicle warning sounds}}

''[[The Wall Street Journal]]'' reported in February 2007 on concerns that quiet cars like the Prius may pose a safety risk to pedestrians who rely on engine noise to sense the presence or location of moving vehicles.<ref>{{cite news |date=13 February 2007 |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB117133115592406662 |title=Blind Pedestrians Say Quiet Hybrids Pose Safety Threat |first=Raymund |last=flandez |work=[[The Wall Street Journal]]}}</ref> Blind pedestrians are a primary concern, and the [[National Federation of the Blind]] advocates audio emitters on hybrid vehicles,<ref>{{cite web |date=August–September 2003 |url=http://www.nfb.org/Images/nfb/Publications/bm/bm06/bm0608/bm060813.htm |title=National Federation of the Blind 2006 Resolutions |publisher=The Braille Monitor}}</ref> but it has been argued that increased risks may also affect sighted pedestrians or bicyclists who are accustomed to aural cues from vehicles. However, silent vehicles are already relatively common, and there is also a lack of aural cues from vehicles that have a conventional internal combustion engine where engine noise has been reduced by noise-absorbing materials in the engine bay and noise-cancelling muffler systems. In July 2007, a spokesman for Toyota said the company is aware of the issue and is studying options.<ref>{{cite web |date=20 July 2007 |url=http://www.startribune.com/397/story/1314682.html |title=Fixit: Will quiet hybrids get noisier? |publisher=StarTribune.com (Star Tribune, Minneapolis MN) |last=Youso |first=Karen |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071017211841/http://www.startribune.com/397/story/1314682.html |archive-date=17 October 2007}}</ref>

In 2010, Toyota released a device for the third-generation Prius meant to alert pedestrians of its proximity.<ref name=TMC0810>{{cite web |url=http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/10/08/0824.html |title=TMC to Sell Approaching Vehicle Audible System for 'Prius' |publisher=[[Toyota Motor Company]] News Release |date=24 August 2010 |access-date=25 August 2010 |archive-date=27 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100827011559/http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/10/08/0824.html |url-status=dead }} ''[http://www2.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/10/08/image/pri_souti_1008_03.asx Click this link for a video showing a demo of the warning sound at different speeds] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110822002358/http://www2.toyota.co.jp/jp/news/10/08/image/pri_souti_1008_03.asx |date=22 August 2011 }}''.</ref> Japan issued guidelines for such warning devices in January 2010 and the US approved legislation in December 2010.<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web |url=http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/10/08/0824.html |title=TMC to Sell Approaching Vehicle Audible System for 'Prius' |publisher=[[Toyota Motor Company]] News Release |date=24 August 2010 |access-date=25 August 2010 |archive-date=27 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100827011559/http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/10/08/0824.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=ACB>{{cite press release |url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/critical-pedestrian-safety-legislation-moves-to-white-house-for-presidents-signature-112016879.html |title=Critical Pedestrian Safety Legislation Moves to White House for President's Signature |agency=PR Newswire |publisher=[[American Council of the Blind]] |date=16 December 2010 |access-date=17 December 2010}}</ref> Models equipped with [[Electric vehicle warning sounds|automatically activated systems]] include all 2012 and later [[model year]] Prius family vehicles that have been introduced in the United States, including the [[Toyota Prius (XW30)#2011 facelift|standard Prius]], the [[Toyota Prius v|Prius v]], the [[Toyota Prius c|Prius c]] and the [[Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid]].<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20110209-48/prius-artificial-engine-noise-demonstrated-explained/ |title=Prius' artificial engine noise demonstrated, explained |first=Antuan |last=Goodwin |publisher=[[CNET]] Cartech |date=22 September 2011 |access-date=25 September 2011}}</ref><ref name=Prii>{{cite web |url=http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1066487_2012-toyota-prius-prius-v-prius-plug-in-hybrid-now-with-spaceship-sound |title=2012 Toyota Prius, Prius V, Prius Plug-in Hybrid: Now With Spaceship Sound |first=Nikki |last=Gordon-Bloomfield |publisher=Electric Car Reports |date=23 September 2011 |access-date=25 September 2011}}</ref> The warning sound is activated when the car is traveling at less than {{cvt|15|mph}} and cannot be manually turned off.<ref name=AutoNews0313>{{cite news |url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130318/OEM01/303189991/louder-evs-may-turn-off-drivers-automakers-say |title=Louder EVs may turn off drivers, automakers say |first=Gabe |last=Nelson |work=[[Automotive News]] |date=1 March 2013 |access-date=20 March 2013}}</ref>

== Marketing and culture == {{anchor|CO2 advertising}}

=== {{CO2}} advertising === In the UK, the [[Advertising Standards Authority (United Kingdom)|Advertising Standards Authority]], an independent body charged with policing the rules of the advertising industry, ruled that a television advert for the Toyota Prius should not be broadcast again in the same form, having breached rules concerning misleading advertising. The advertisement stated that the Prius "emits up to one tonne less {{CO2}} per year", while on-screen text included "1 tonne of {{CO2}} less than an equivalent family vehicle with a diesel engine. Average calculated on 20,000{{nbsp}}km a year." Points of contention were the vehicles chosen for comparison, whether "{{'}}up to' one tonne less" adequately communicated that reductions could be lower, and whether the distance used was appropriate: {{cvt|20,000|km|miles}} per year is around a US car's average annual driving distance, while a UK car's is {{cvt|13,440|km|miles}}.<ref>{{cite web |title=ASA Adjudication: Toyota (GB) plc |date=6 June 2007 |publisher=UK Advertising Standards Authority |url=http://www.asa.org.uk/asa/adjudications/Public/TF_ADJ_42615.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070812150408/http://www.asa.org.uk/asa/adjudications/Public/TF_ADJ_42615.htm |archive-date=12 August 2007}}</ref>

=== Political symbolism === [[File:NYC DOT fleet of Prius 07 2010 9641.JPG|thumb|Prius fleet operated by the [[New York City Department of Transportation]]]]

The large number of Prius-owning progressive celebrities in 2002 prompted ''[[The Washington Post]]'' to dub hybrids "Hollywood's latest politically correct status symbol".<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn?pagename=article&node=&contentId=A2587-2002Jun5 "Half Gas, Half Electric, Total California Cool: Hollywood Gets a Charge Out of Hybrid Cars".] ''The Washington Post'', page C01, via washingtonpost.com, 6 June 2002. Retrieved 2007-08-13.</ref> Conservatives called "Prius Patriots" also drive the cars because they want to contribute to reducing US dependence on foreign oil.<ref>Anderson, Kevin. [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/4283117.stm "Hybrid cars take hold in US".] BBC News, 22 February 2005. Retrieved 2007-08-13.</ref> A 2007 ''[[San Francisco Chronicle]]'' article said "Prius Progressives" were becoming an archetype, with American conservative commentator [[Rush Limbaugh]] opining that "these liberals think they're ahead of the game on these things, and they're just suckers".<ref name="haddock">Haddock, Vicki. [https://web.archive.org/web/20070921001515/http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2007/07/15/INGHKQVEIM1.DTL "Oh, so pious, Prius drivers: Smugness drifts over the warming Earth -- is that a bad thing?"] ''San Francisco Chronicle'', page D-3, via sfgate.com, 15 July 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-13.</ref> A 2016 US survey of 10,000 people conducted by CarTalk found that Prius owners were more likely to support both [[Ted Cruz]] and [[Hillary Clinton]] compared to the general population.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kelly |first=Amita |date=2016-02-23 |title=Which Candidate Are Prius Owners Most Likely To Support? Not Who You'd Think |url=https://www.npr.org/2016/02/23/467852236/which-candidate-are-prius-owners-are-most-likely-to-support-not-who-youd-think |access-date=2025-11-27 |work=NPR |language=en}}</ref>

In July 2007, ''[[The New York Times]]'' published an article using data from CNW Marketing Research finding that 57% of Prius buyers in the US said their main reason for buying was that "it makes a statement about me", while just 37% cited fuel economy as a prime motivator.<ref>Maynard, Micheline; Nick Bunkley and Mary M. Chapman contributing. [https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/04/business/04hybrid.html "Say 'Hybrid' and Many People will Hear 'Prius.{{'"}}] ''[[The New York Times]]'', 4 July 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-13.</ref> Shortly afterwards ''Washington Post'' columnist [[Robert Samuelson]] coined the term "Prius politics" to describe a situation where the driver's desire to "show off" is a stronger motivator than the desire to curb [[greenhouse gas emissions]].<ref>Samuelson, Robert J. [https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/07/24/AR2007072401855.html "Prius Politics".] ''[[The Washington Post]]'', page A15, via washingtonpost.com, 25 July 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-13.</ref> Some conservatives promote the use of the Toyota Prius and other hybrid cars. For example, Jim Road from ''What Would Jesus Drive?'' encouraged people to drive hybrid cars because of the damage that large SUVs and faster cars can do to others.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://newsnet.byu.edu/story.cfm/41340/ |title='What would Jesus drive?' stirs religious coals |publisher=Universe, Brigham Young University |first=Ember |last=Herrick |date=6 January 2003 |access-date=4 August 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327174613/http://newsnet.byu.edu/story.cfm/41340 |archive-date=27 March 2010}}</ref>

Former [[Central Intelligence Agency]] (CIA) chief [[R. James Woolsey, Jr.]] drives a Prius because of its low fuel consumption. Woolsey noted the volatility of the Middle East, coupled with anti-US sentiment in much of the region. Noting that the high percentage of oil drilled in the Middle East gives vast profits to Middle Eastern regimes, Woolsey believes that it is a patriotic obligation to drive more efficient vehicles. In a ''Motor Trend'' magazine article, Woolsey stated that those oil profits find their way to terrorist groups like [[al-Qaeda]], meaning that Americans who buy inefficient vehicles would, in effect, be indirectly funding terrorism. "We're paying for both sides in this war, and that's not a good long-term strategy," said Woolsey. "I have a bumper sticker on the back of my Prius that reads, 'Bin Laden hates this car.'"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motortrend.com/features/consumer/112_0705_james_woolsey_interview/ |title=James Woolsey - Interview |publisher=Motor Trend |access-date=1 June 2012 |archive-date=3 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070903201320/http://www.motortrend.com/features/consumer/112_0705_james_woolsey_interview |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== DARPA driverless edition === A [[driverless car|driverless]] version of the Prius was one of six cars to finish the 2007 [[DARPA Grand Challenge (2007)|DARPA Urban Challenge]].<ref name="firstCarnagie">{{cite news |url=http://blog.wired.com/defense/2007/11/darpa-names-win.html |magazine=Wired |first=Michael |last=Belfiore |title=Carnegie Takes First in DARPA's Urban Challenge |date=4 November 2007}}</ref>

== Motorsports == [[File:Apr Prius GT 2016SUGO.jpg|right|thumb|A Toyota Prius apr GT at [[Sportsland SUGO]]]]

A racing version of the Prius was unveiled by Toyota for the 2012 [[Super GT]] series in Japan. This racing Prius replaces the 1.8-litre Atkinson-cycle engine with a 3.4-litre V8 RV8KLM engine which is mid-mounted in the car. The hybrid drivetrain of the car's production Hybrid Synergy Drive is retained but with a larger lithium-ion battery.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://blog.toyota.co.uk/meet-the-worlds-fastest-toyota-prius |title=Meet the World's fastest Toyota Prius |first= Joe |last=Clifford |publisher=Toyota |location=UK |date=7 April 2016 |access-date=27 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130414053448/http://blog.toyota.co.uk/meet-the-worlds-fastest-toyota-prius |archive-date=2013-04-14 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The RV8KLM is the same engine featured in multiple Le Mans Prototypes such as the [[Lola B12/60]] and [[Rebellion R-One]]. The car took class [[pole position]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motorsport.com/supergt/news/joao-paulo-de-oliveira-clinches-first-career-super-gt-pole-at-fuji |title=Joao Paulo de Oliveira clinches first career Super GT pole at Fuji |publisher=Motorsport.com |first=Nancy |last=Knapp Schilke |date=12 September 2012 |access-date=29 April 2013}}</ref> and finished sixth at the [[2012 Fuji GT 500km]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://supergt.net/pages/pg:results/device:pc/ln:en/year:2012/gt_class:gt300/result_menu:race/result_menu_2:total |title=Results 2012 Series JAF GP Fuji Sprint Cup Race |work=Super GT |date=17 November 2012 |access-date=3 May 2013}}{{clarify|reason=doesn't seem to support 6th position. 5th, 6th or 11th? GT300 or GT500?|date=May 2013}}</ref>

For 2019 a new version of the Prius was unveiled. Based on the Prius PHV GR Sport, this version of the Prius was powered by a 5.4 L [[Toyota UR engine|2UR-GSE]] V8 mounted in the front of the car. The hybrid system was retained for this version of the car but only on the #31 car. The Prius was retired from Super GT competition after the [[2022 Super GT Series]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.dailysportscar.com/2023/01/05/2022-goodbyes-toyota-prius-gt-by-apr.html|title=2022 Goodbyes: Toyota Prius GT by apr |work=Daily Sports Car |first=R.J. |last=O'Connell |date=5 January 2023 |access-date=19 September 2023}}</ref>

== Government and corporate incentives == {{See also|Hybrid electric vehicle#Legislation and incentives|l1=Legislation and incentives towards hybrid vehicles|Government incentives for fuel efficient vehicles in the United States}} [[File:Police car Vinnytsia 2016 G1.jpg|thumb|Ukrainian Toyota Prius in [[National Police of Ukraine|National Police]] service]]

There have been a number of governments with incentives intended to encourage hybrid car sales. In some countries, including the US and Canada, some rebate incentives have been exhausted, while other countries such as the United Kingdom, Sweden, Belgium, and the Netherlands have various or alternative incentives to purchasing a hybrid vehicle.

Several US companies offer employees incentives. [[Bank of America]] will reimburse {{USD|3,000}} on the purchase of new hybrid vehicles to full- and part-time associates working more than 20 hours per week.<ref name="hybridcarsci">{{cite news |url=http://www.hybridcars.com/corporate-incentives.html |title=Corporate Incentives for Hybrids and Alternative Cars |first=Brad |last=Berman |date=11 May 2011 |access-date=20 March 2016}}</ref> [[Google]],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_32/b4045417.htm |title=Q&A with Google's VP of Marketing |work=Bloomberg |date=6 August 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016063420/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_32/b4045417.htm |archive-date=16 October 2007}}</ref> software company [[Hyperion Solutions]],<ref>{{cite web |date=November 2004 |url=http://www.hyperion.com/driveclean/ |title=Details of Hyperion Solutions' Drive Clean Program |work=Hyperion Solutions |access-date=12 January 2007}}</ref> and organic food and drink producer [[Clif Bar|Clif Bar & Co]]<ref name="hybridcarsci" /> offer employees a {{USD|5,000}} credit toward their purchase of certain hybrid vehicles including the Prius. Integrated Archive Systems, a Palo Alto IT company, offers a {{USD|10,000}} subsidy toward the purchase of hybrid vehicles to full-time employees employed more than one year.<ref name="hybridcarsci"/>

[[Travelers Companies]], a large insurance company, offers hybrid owners a 10% discount on auto insurance in most US states.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.coolmayors.com/common/news/reports/detail.cfm?Classification=report&QID=3465&ClientID=11061&BrowseFlag=1&Keyword=&StartRow=1&TopicID=314 |title=Cool Mayors for Climate Protection - Global Warming: More Than the Environment |publisher=Cool Mayors |location=US |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070704215002/http://www.coolmayors.com/common/news/reports/detail.cfm?Classification=report&QID=3465&ClientID=11061&BrowseFlag=1&Keyword=&StartRow=1&TopicID=314 |archive-date=4 July 2007}}</ref> The [[Farmers Insurance Group]] offers a similar discount of up to 10% in most US states.<ref name="hybridcarsci"/>

In June 2015, the Prius started use as a general purpose patrol car of the [[National Police of Ukraine]]. In return for Ukrainian emissions permits under the [[Kyoto Protocol]], 1,568 cars were supplied by Japan.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.mvs.gov.ua/mvs/control/main/en/publish/article/1510024;jsessionid=B89D7854C02491BA095F8093366D0CF2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018113038/http://www.mvs.gov.ua/mvs/control/main/en/publish/article/1510024;jsessionid=B89D7854C02491BA095F8093366D0CF2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=18 October 2015 |title=MIA received hybrid cars for the new patrol police from the Japanese government |publisher=Ministry of Internal Affairs |location=Ukraine |date=7 June 2015 |access-date=3 September 2015 }}</ref>

The [[Philippine National Police]] is one of the agency beneficiaries of the Toyota Prius (2017 model) hybrid cars donated by the Department of Energy (DOE) through the Japan’s Non-Project Grant Aid (NPGA) as part of the DOE’s campaign to promote energy efficiency and clean air across the country. Forty-five units of the vehicle will be given to Police Regional Office 8 particularly the areas which were affected by [[Typhoon Yolanda]] in 2013 to support the socio-economic recovery of the communities and provide additional police mobility. The official turnover of donation led by Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa, Embassy of Japan to the Philippines, and Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi was held on 19 May 2017 at the DOE Sunken Garden in Taguig where representatives of the agency beneficiaries received the key replicas.<ref>{{cite web |last1=dela Rosa |first1=Ronald |author1-link=Ronald dela Rosa |title=One Year Report: 01 July 2016-30 June 2017 |url=http://pnp.gov.ph/images/publications/CPNPDelaRosa_OneYearReport16-17.pdf |publisher=National Police Commission |location=Philippines |access-date=11 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828153605/http://pnp.gov.ph/images/publications/CPNPDelaRosa_OneYearReport16-17.pdf |archive-date=28 August 2018}}</ref>

== See also == * [[Comparison of Toyota hybrids]]

== References == {{Reflist}}

== External links == {{Commons category|Toyota Prius}} {{Wikibooks|Toyota Prius}}  * [https://toyota.jp/prius/ Toyota Prius Japanese website]

[[Category:Toyota Prius| ]] [[Category:Cars introduced in 1997]] [[Category:2000s cars]] [[Category:2010s cars]] [[Category:2020s cars]] [[Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles]] [[Category:Compact cars]] [[Category:ANCAP medium cars]] [[Category:Euro NCAP large family cars]] [[Category:Front-wheel-drive vehicles]] [[Category:Hatchbacks]] [[Category:Hybrid electric cars]] [[Category:Partial zero-emissions vehicles]] [[Category:Sedans]] [[Category:Subcompact cars]] [[Category:Taxi vehicles]]