2026 Prius Unveiled

2026 Prius Lineup

Here we are in 2026, and the Toyota Prius is still going strong. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in the United States, it shows no signs of age. Toyota seems to have adopted a “why fix what’s not broken” attitude, bringing minimal changes this year, mostly in pricing. The range now starts at $28,550, marking a modest $200 increase. The Nightshade edition remains in the lineup, with a slight bump to $32,800.

While the standard Prius is mostly unchanged, the big news is the introduction of the 2026 Prius Prime Nightshade Edition. This trim is priced at $37,795 and flaunts a sleek blackout design, including black alloy wheels and trim.

Performance and Features

The heart of the Prius is its hybrid setup, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combining with electric assistance for a total of 194 horsepower. If a little more kick is needed, the all-wheel-drive version steps it up to 196 horsepower. Fuel economy remains a highlight with 57 mpg in the city, 56 mpg on the highway, and a combined 57 mpg.

The Prius Prime takes it a step further with its plug-in hybrid powertrain. It boasts a 2.0-liter engine paired with a 13.6 kWh battery pack and dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 220 horsepower and an impressive 44 miles of electric range.

Driving Experience

Driving the Prius remains a chilled-out affair. It’s certainly not a sports car, but that’s hardly the point. Where it shines is offering a smooth ride, excellent fuel efficiency, and a comfortable cabin experience. The Prius isn’t about pinning you to your seat; it’s about giving you peace of mind and fewer trips to the pump.

Comparatively, the Prius feels more laid-back than performance mentors like the Tesla Model 3 or the sporty Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Toyota hasn’t been built to challenge these electric cars on the track; instead, it excels as a commuter king.

Nightshade Edition

The new Nightshade Edition of the Prius Prime gives the car a distinctly different flavor. With its all-black trim, 19-inch alloy wheels, and exclusive Karashi color option, it’s a bolder statement than the standard offerings. Inside, the black theme continues with black SofTex seats, faux carbon fiber trim, and enhanced driver-side seat adjustments.

2026 Pricing Guide