2022 Toyota Prius

Pros: Outstanding fuel economy; front-seat legroom; cargo space

Cons: Visibility to rear corners; rear-seat legroom

CG Says: The 2022 Toyota Prius adds a Nightshade Edition appearance package, but sees no significant changes otherwise. The Prius is Toyota’s hybrid compact hatchback sedan and the Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid version that has an estimated all-electric driving range of 25 miles. A 1.8-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor produce a combined 121 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the only transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and an available on-demand AWD system operates 0 to 6 mph and, if needed, up to 43 mph. Standard safety features include forward collision warning and mitigation, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and mitigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist. LED headlights and keyless entry and starting are also standard. Parking assist, Siri Eyes Free, and head-up instrument display are available. Legroom is generous up front, but only adequate in the rear. The current-generation Prius was redesigned for the 2016 model year, and by now it feels less relevant and compelling against newer-design hybrids and pure EVs. Still, the Prius remains an excellent all-around commuter vehicle that delivers consistently outstanding fuel economy.