For 20 years, the Prius has been the recognized name in hybrid vehicles. Even though other car manufacturers have occupied some of that market share, Toyota is offering a special birthday edition to celebrate two decades of breaking the mold with the 2021 Toyota Prius.
Basics About the 2021 Toyota Prius
What You Get
This hatchback’s style is iconic, and this year’s model hasn’t changed drastically from previous looks. It still offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo, as well as an elevated shifter which allows for storage cubbies in the center.
In addition, every Prius comes standard with an infotainment touchscreen. The majority of models have a 7-inch display that allows drivers to connect their Bluetooth for calls and music, throw in a CD, or turn on the radio. The USB port also offers charging capability, and the system works with iOS, Android, and Alexa.
The Big Draw – Fuel Economy
The Prius remains the car that will consistently provide drivers with more than 50 miles to the gallon, thus saving them money at the pump. The L Eco model is estimated to clock over 56 mpg, and other Prius models drop down a bit to 52 mpg on average.
New/Unique Features
Birthday Party for the Prius
Since Toyota has been selling its Prius models for 20 years, they decided to celebrate by creating 2,020 Prius 2020 Edition cars. This specialty model is decked out with the XLE trim, comes in driver’s choice of Supersonic Red or Wind Chill Pearl (both with black exterior trim) and sleek 17-inch black wheels.
One of the features of all of the XLE trims is a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen system, which does not support Android Auto as the 7-inch version does.
Setting the Safety Standard
As technology has advanced, drivers can now expect standard features like collision avoidance, pedestrian and bicycle detection, and automatic high beams. The Prius has consistently been highly rated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, once again receiving five stars, and it was an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2018 Top Safety Pick.
Additionally, all Prius models come standard with lane warning and lane-keep assist to help drivers from drifting.
Extras
It is possible for drivers to add on an Advanced Technology package that comes with integrated navigation capabilities and a heads-up display. This package also features radar-enabled cruise control, a hybrid system indicator, and an adaptive, auto-leveling front-lighting system. Toyota also offers the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive hybrid model available on the market currently.
XLE AWD-e
The electric motor added to the AWD works separately from the main hybrid components, and it powers the rear wheels. This does decrease the fuel efficiency somewhat but can help drivers who live in cold or wet climates while maintaining a 47 mpg average.
This model came out originally in 2019 but also comes in a 2021 model, and is available in the XLE trim. Another feature of this AWD that drivers may appreciate is that it is completely automatic, with the drivers not having to do anything additional to engage the AWD when needed.
Twenty years ago, Prius certainly made waves in the hybrid space in the United States, and they’re continuing to push forward with innovation, as well as doing a small run of specialty 2020 cars to mark that achievement. If you’re interested in trying out a Prius, come to Ed Martin Toyota to see if a hybrid is the right fuel-efficient hatchback for you!


