Toyota Prius

Front-drive versions are even more sparing with fuel. Although it delivers quicker acceleration than in the previous Prius, the engine is noisy when it kicks in. The car can propel itself on electric power alone at low speeds, light throttle situations up to about 25 mph. A plug-in hybrid is also available. Handling is tighter, making the car fairly nimble and the ride is firm yet steady. The low stance, curvy roof, and raked windshield compromise access and visibility. AEB with pedestrian detection, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW come standard. Adaptive cruise control and lane centering assist are also standard on all trims.

Styling became much more controversial; its practical effect was that the Prius sits lower than before, sacrificing some access, visibility, and rear seat space. Still, this small hatchback can provide the family-hauling space of  most mid-sized sedans. Handling is more sure-footed and interior noise has been reduced. The interior doesn't feel as cheap as before, although some odd touches still remain, including some unconventional controls. 2017 brought standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. All-wheel drive was offered for 2019. Updates for 2020 include standard Apple CarPlay—but still no Android Auto. For the model year 2021, the Toyota Safety Sense system was upgraded to TSS2.0. This suite of safety equipment includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with low-light pedestrian and daytime bicyclist detection, lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance, automatic high beams and road sign assist. A version of lane keeping assistance (lane tracing assist) helps to keep the car in the center of the lane while the adaptive cruise control is being used. Adaptive cruise control is standard with the stop and go function. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard on all trims, except the LE Eco. Toyota’s rear seat reminder is now standard on all trim lines for 2022.