The 2020 Toyota Prius Prime is headed to U.S. dealerships this summer with a host of updates.
Most of the upgrades occur in the cabin and the biggest change is the addition of a newly available rear bench which enables the model to seat up to five people. It replaces the two captain chairs which were separated by a small center console.
Elsewhere, black interior accents replace previous white accents for a “more premium feel.” The model also gains a new sun visor extender and relocated heated seat buttons.
On the technology front, there are two new USB charging ports for rear seat passengers. More importantly, the Prius Prime gains standard SiriusXM satellite radio as well as Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
Additional changes are limited, but Toyota has renamed the Plus, Premium and Advanced trims levels the LE, XLE and Limited. This is a minor change, but these trims are common across the Toyota lineup.
Also Read: 2019 Toyota Prius Facelift Brings Optional AWD For The First Time
The plug-in hybrid powertrain carries over and consists of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, an electric motor and an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This enables the model to produce a combined output of 121 hp (90 kW / 123 PS).
While the Prius Prime isn’t powerful, it is incredibly efficient as it has a fuel economy rating of 55 mpg city / 53 mpg highway / 54 mpg combined. Furthermore, the model can travel up to 25 miles (40.2 km) on electricity alone.
Prices have crept up a little bit as the Prius Prime LE starts at $27,600 which is $250 more than the previous Plus variant. The XLE sees a $450 price hike to $29,500 while Limited climbs $150 to $33,500.
