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Hybrid and electric cars are all the rage—and it all started with the Toyota Prius. It was the first-ever mass-marketed hybrid vehicle when it hit the streets of Japan in 1997 and later came to the U.S. in 2000. As newcomers, like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, hit the market, you’ll probably be wondering how they match up to the original.
If you’re ready to go electric around San Diego, Kearny Mesa, or Chula Vista, CA, the 2023 Toyota Prius and the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 are probably on your short list. Our team at Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego is here to see which one is better suited to you!
HORSEPOWER
FRONT LEGROOM
ROAD SIGN ASSIST
If you’re looking into vehicles that are either partially or entirely powered by electric motors, the Prius and the IONIQ 5 are surely on your radar. While both models offer outstanding power and efficiency, sometimes the original just does it better.
The 2023 Toyota Prius offers a hybrid powertrain that consists of a 4-cylinder engine coupled with a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor. With the engine and motor combined, you’ll find a standard output of 196 horsepower.
In comparison, the standard output of the IONIQ 5 is a bit of a letdown at just 168 horsepower.
Of course, electric and hybrid models are better known for their fuel-saving features. When you combine the 11.3-gallon fuel tank and impressive EPA-estimated 57 city/56 highway MPG ratings, the Toyota Prius has a total range of up to 644 miles.*
While the Hyundai IONIQ 5 has a decent range, it can only get just under 250 miles on one charge. Plus, having to charge your vehicle takes a bit longer than just fueling up at the gas station. While fast charging is available, it can only charge your model up to 80%, whereas gasoline can fill your tank completely.
While both the Prius and the IONIQ 5 offer compact bodies to maximize efficiency, you’ll still have plenty of room and amenities to ensure your ride is comfortable and fun. Which model has managed to find the perfect middle ground between a compact exterior and a comfortable interior, though?
You’ll find plenty of wiggle room in both models, with 43.2 inches of front legroom in the Prius and 41.7 inches in the IONIQ 5. Sink into the Sof-Tex® upholstery available in the Prius. This synthetic leather is easier to maintain and more resistant to UV rays than the natural leather available in the IONIQ 5.
When it comes to interior technology, you may find the wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® in the Prius easier to connect. Fortunately, both models offer touchscreens up to 12.3-inches.
While it’s true that compact exteriors improve fuel economy, that’s just one benefit. You’ll also find the compact design of the Toyota Prius and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 can help you park and navigate city streets.
This is especially true of the Prius, which is just 70.2 inches wide and 181.1 inches long. While the IONIQ 5 is also a compact vehicle, you’ll have to be more careful when parking due to its length of 182.5 inches and width of 74.4 inches.
Doing a good turn for the environment by choosing a hybrid or electric vehicle is sure to give you more peace of mind. The wide array of safety features available in both models will amplify that peace of mind.
The 2023 Prius comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0. It includes:
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 can be outfitted with several similar features thanks to Hyundai SmartSense. One feature you’ll only get with the Prius, however, is Road Sign Assist. This feature will detect road signs and put them right on the driver information center or optional head-up display.
Both models also provide available features you can opt for. For instance, the Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is available on every trim of the Toyota Prius. This feature will help you park and potentially brake to avoid front or rear collisions at low speeds.
While the IONIQ 5 has similar parking warning features, several of them are not available on the base trim at all.
The competition was close. However, the Toyota Prius proved it still sets the tone for other electrified cars around San Diego, Kearny Mesa, and Chula Vista, CA. If you’re looking for the vehicle with the more capable performance, superior safety features, and improved interior versatility, the Prius is the right one for you.
Schedule a test drive at Norm Reeves Toyota San Diego to see it for yourself!
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Prius for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
Explore our extensive new inventory, receive an estimate on your trade-in, apply for credit or contact us to schedule your in-person test drive using the quick links here.
Shop Toyota Prius Value Your Trade Apply for Financing Schedule a Test Drive* EPA-estimated 57 city/56 hwy/57 combined mpg rating for 2023 Prius LE FWD, 53 city/54 hwy/54 combined mpg rating for 2023 Prius LE AWD, 52 city/52 hwy/52 combined mpg rating for 2023 Prius XLE and Limited FWD, and 49 city/50 hwy/49 combined mpg rating for 2023 Prius XLE and Limited AWD. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
