Test Drive: 2015 Toyota Prius PHEV

There’s more to like too. One of the main arguments against any hybrid system is the relative price increase over a conventionally powered economy car, especially with many compacts not as entry-level as they used to be. However, the Prius isn’t just going to save you on fuel costs; maintenance items like brakes, oil changes, and so on are all much more infrequent than in a regular car. In fact, taxi companies see far greater savings from cost savings here than in outright fuel-economy benefits. Perhaps that’s why they all seem to drive with their right foot welded to the floorboards.

Plus David Suzuki has one, so you can feel good about yourself for driving a green option, right? Well, not so much. In fact, while the Prius PHEV is plenty efficient and inexpensive to operate, it does have one big problem. It’s called the Prius.

The ordinary Prius is fitted with a smaller battery that’s actually better at delivering a short burst of power, and is thus a little quicker feeling than the plug-in car. It’s not quite as efficient, but the gap in price eats up any potential fuel savings. Taking the 2015 model year five-cycle ratings, the mixed-mileage difference between the pair is 2.2 L/100 km. Assume gasoline prices will increase to around $1.50/L and figure an average of 20,000 km per year, and we’d be looking at a decade to make up the $6K+ gap between the standard car and the plug-in when both are equivalently equipped. Oof – even if the plug-in holds a percentage of value on resale, that’s a yawning gulf.

2015 Toyota Prius PHEV, headlight. Click image to enlarge

But wait! If you’re reading this in Toronto, then good news – the government will give you a $5K rebate to swallow up that cost. And there’s a similar program in Quebec. It’s a no-brainer then: a grand for extra plug-in capacity? Absolutely. If you live elsewhere like in rebate-free BC, as I do, then cue the sad trombone noise.

Plus, if we’re looking at rebate-eligible cars why not a Nissan Leaf then? Or the excellent electric version of the Kia Soul? Both provide enough range for the average Canadian consumer concerned about emissions.

With a new Prius on the way by next year with updated interior, exterior, handling, and powertrains, the average consumer is probably best off with the regular version. If you can get a cut-rate price on one of these machines, well, it’s not much fun, but it is most certainly functional.

Pricing: 2015 Toyota Prius PHEV
Base price: $35,705
Base price with Technology Package: $40,940
Options: None
Freight: $1,620
A/C tax: $100
Price as tested: $42,660

Competitors:
Chevrolet Volt
Ford C-Max Energi
Ford Fusion Energi
Honda Insight
Kia Soul EV
Nissan Leaf