2024 Toyota Prius Prime's Engine Earns a Spot in Wards Auto's 2023 Top 10 List

Wards Auto has recently named the engine of the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime among its Top 10 engines for 2023. The announcement is significant as Wards is a leading authority in the automotive industry, especially when it comes to evaluating propulsion systems.

The Significance of Wards 10 Best List

Now in its 29th year, Wards Auto's annual Top 10 list has long been a trusted source of information for automotive professionals and consumers alike. This year, Wards editors evaluated 32 vehicles, including 13 internal combustion engines (ICEs), 10 battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and nine hybrids. The list doesn't have a price cap since 2021, although the value remains an important criterion. The evaluations are carried out in real-world driving conditions, and only powertrains that are new or significantly improved make the cut.

Upgraded Engine and Performance

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime has been fully redesigned, and the new engine is a testament to this transformation. The hybrid system combines a 150-hp 2.0L engine with a 161-hp electric motor generator, offering a combined 220-system-net-horsepower—a nearly 100-hp gain over the previous model. Coupled with a 13.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, the all-electric range sees an 80% increase, climbing from 40 km to a manufacturer-estimated 72 km. The fuel consumption in hybrid mode is impressively efficient at 4.5 L/100 km.

The Evolution of Wards Auto's Evaluations

As the automotive landscape has shifted towards electric and hybrid technologies, Wards has adapted its evaluations accordingly. While internal combustion engines still feature prominently, the increasing number of BEVs and hybrids—including five plug-in hybrids this year—on the list reflects the growing trend toward more sustainable driving options.

In summary, the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime’s inclusion on Wards Auto's 2023 Top 10 list highlights the vehicle's exceptional engine performance and efficiency. It marks a significant achievement for Toyota in its continuous quest for innovation in the plug-in hybrid space.