Toyota Prius

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Toyota Prius appears in this database in 5 model years, from 2016 to 2020, offered with hybrid power. Combined economy ranges from 46 to 56 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $1,150 to $1,400 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average midsize cars in this dataset (about 32 MPG), the Prius sits roughly 19 MPG above that mark on average, making it a relatively efficient choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a Prius for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $5,750 to $7,000, averaging about $6,375 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the Prius varies by about 10 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on hybrid. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used Prius check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2020 the Prius's average combined economy slipped from about 54 to 51 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2018 Prius has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 54 MPG, while the 2020 is the lowest at about 51 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2020 Prius at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the Prius against a rival, or go back to all Toyota models.