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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 2.0L 4-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic (variable gear ratios) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 57 / 56 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 57 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $1,200 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 155 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Body Style | Hybrid |
| Base Price | $27,688–$37,136 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 8.4/10, the 2023 Toyota Prius earns a Recommended rating among the hybrids we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.5/10, while Performance at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Toyota Prius's reliability at 9.5/10 — among the strongest in our hybrid database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 8.3/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 8.1/10 — one of the stronger tech packages in the segment. Expect a responsive infotainment system, broad smartphone integration, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features.
Priced from $27,688–$37,136, 56 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Prius sits in the mid-market bracket of the hybrid segment. The 9.1/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this hybrid delivers more than most of the class. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Toyota Prius as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in performance are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2023 Toyota Prius ranks #18 of 135 hybrids in the Carivo database — better than 87% of the segment. Its 8.4/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 8.2/10. Its $27,688 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $31,584 by about 12%.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Hybrid ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Toyota Prius scores 8.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 8.4 — and starts roughly $2,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 8.4/10 | $29,401 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 8.4/10 | $29,401 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 8.3/10 | $28,545 | Read review → |
| 2023 (this review) | 8.4/10 | $27,688 | |
| 2022 | 8.2/10 | $26,832 | Read review → |
| 2021 | 8.1/10 | $25,975 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 8.1/10 | $25,119 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 8.1/10 | $24,263 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 8.1/10 | $23,406 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 8.0/10 | $22,550 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.9/10 | $21,694 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.9/10 | $20,837 | Read review → |
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Electrical system / Wiring / Switches/knobs/buttons 17/04/2024 · 24V274000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Prius and Prius Prime vehicles. Water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to open unexpectedly. |
|---|---|
| Equipment / Other / Labels 23/07/2024 · 24V548000 | Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander,… |
| Back over prevention / Display function 30/10/2025 · 25V744000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error… |
| Electrical system / Wiring / Switches/knobs/buttons 28/01/2026 · 26V049000 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Prius Prime, 2023-2026 Prius, and 2025-2026 Prius Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Water may enter the rear door switch and cause a short circuit, allowing an unlocked rear door to… |
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.