For environmentally minded buyers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, two of the most compelling green vehicles on the market right now are the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5. But which one is the better option? Based on a detailed comparison of performance, range, interior space, technology, and overall value, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 emerges as the superior choice for buyers ready to ditch gas and go all-in on an EV. However, the Prius Prime remains a smart buy for drivers who aren’t quite ready to fully give up a gas engine.
Let’s take a deeper dive into how these two green machines stack up across the key factors shoppers consider when choosing their next vehicle. As an experienced data analyst and tech enthusiast, I’ll spotlight key stats and evidence that reveal the strengths and weaknesses of each model. By the end, you’ll have the insights to determine which of these environmentally friendly cars is right for your needs and budget.
Driving Performance and Handling
When it comes to driving enjoyment, the Ioniq 5 clearly outperforms the Prius Prime. Looking at acceleration and handling metrics, the Ioniq 5 provides a much livelier and responsive driving experience.
The most powerful AWD version of the Ioniq 5 can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds thanks to its combined 320 hp electric motor output. Compare that to the Prius Prime’s 220 total system hp which results in a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds.
Table 1 below summarizes the performance specs:
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| Performance Metric | 2023 Toyota Prius Prime | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower (hp) | 220 hp combined | 168-320 hp depending on configuration |
| 0-60 mph time | 6.6 seconds | 5.2 seconds (AWD model) |
| Top speed | 116 mph | 115 mph |
Table 1: Acceleration and power comparison
The Ioniq 5 also provides a much sportier driving feel thanks to its performance-tuned suspension, lower center of gravity, and ultra-responsive steering. It feels stable and planted around corners, with very little body roll. Ride quality remains comfortable over bumps despite the sportier tuning.
By contrast, the Prius Prime favors softness and comfort over nimble handling. Ride quality is smooth but body lean is more noticeable in corners. Steering is light but lacks feel. For driving enthusiasts, the Ioniq 5 is clearly the pick.
Charging Capability and Driving Range
For any electric vehicle, charging speed and driving range are critical factors. Here the Ioniq 5 easily bests the Prius Prime thanks to much faster charging and over 10x the all-electric driving range.
The Ioniq 5 can add 210 miles of range in just 18 minutes using an ultra-fast 350 kW public DC fast charger. The Prius Prime takes 2 hours to recharge its 8.8 kWh battery on a 240V home charger, and only delivers about 25 miles of all-electric driving before the gas engine kicks in.
When it comes to total estimated driving range including gas and electric, the advantage flips back to the Prius Prime at 640 total miles compared to 303 miles for the Ioniq 5. But for day-to-day all-electric driving, the Ioniq 5’s vastly superior range and charging speed makes it the easy winner.
See the key range and charging specs compared:
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| Range & Charging | 2023 Toyota Prius Prime | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Total range (electric & gas) | 640 miles | 303 miles (electric only) |
| All-electric range | 25 miles | Up to 303 miles |
| Charging time (10-80%) | 2 hours (240V charger) | 18 mins (350 kW DC fast charger) |
Table 2: Driving range and charging comparison
For drivers who cover long daily distances or need to frequently recharge on road trips, the Ioniq 5 is the obvious range champion.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
The Ioniq 5 also handily beats the Prius Prime when it comes to interior dimensions and cargo space.
As an SUV, the Ioniq 5 simply provides more overall passenger room and cargo flexibility. Front and rear legroom, shoulder room and headroom are superior in the Ioniq 5. The under-floor storage in the Ioniq 5 is a nice bonus, allowing you to stash items out of sight.
Cargo capacity behind the rear seats is 27.2 cubic feet in the Ioniq 5 versus just 19.8 cubic feet in the Prius Prime. Folding the rear seats down opens up a cavernous 59.3 cubic feet in the Ioniq 5 compared to a tight 36.3 cubic feet in the Prius Prime.
Check out the interior dimensions comparison:
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| Interior Dimensions | 2023 Toyota Prius Prime | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger volume (cu. ft.) | 90.3 cu. ft. | 101.6 cu. ft. |
| Rear legroom | 33.4 in. | 35.9 in. |
| Cargo capacity behind rear seats | 19.8 cu. ft. | 27.2 cu. ft. |
| Total cargo capacity | 36.3 cu. ft. | 59.3 cu. ft. |
Table 3: Interior dimensions comparison
For shoppers needing to haul adult passengers and lots of cargo, the Ioniq 5 is the superior choice.
Advanced Tech Features and Driver Assistance
In the realm of technology and driver assistance features, both vehicles deliver plenty to satisfy tech-focused buyers. However, Hyundai packs in some unique innovations that help give the Ioniq 5 the edge.
Both vehicles provide the full suite of expected technology features like digital gauge clusters, large touchscreen displays with smartphone integration, OTA updates, WiFi hotspot, wireless charging, and premium audio systems.
When it comes to advanced driver assistance and safety, the Ioniq 5 pulls ahead. It offers Highway Driving Assist 2, a hands-off Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. The Prius Prime lacks this cutting-edge functionality. The Ioniq 5 also provides a 360-degree camera system for easier parking compared to the standard backup camera on the Prius Prime.
Some unique highlights you’ll only find on the Ioniq 5 include:
- Dual 12-inch displays that provide an incredibly futuristic cockpit
- Ambient interior lighting with 64 customizable color options
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) function that allows the Ioniq 5 to power external devices
- Sliding center console that provides flexible interior space
For shoppers who get excited about maxing out on the latest tech features, the Ioniq 5 delivers.
Cost Analysis
One area where the Prius Prime maintains an advantage over the Ioniq 5 is upfront purchase price. With a starting MSRP around $28,500, the Prius Prime comes in several thousand dollars cheaper than the Ioniq 5, which starts around $43,650 before any tax incentives.
However, buyers should weigh lifetime ownership costs, not just sticker price. When factoring in potential gas savings and tax incentives, the cost equation looks more balanced.
Based on average US mileage and electric rates, charging an EV like the Ioniq 5 is roughly 3-4x cheaper per mile than fueling a hybrid like the Prius Prime. For drivers covering over 10,000 miles per year, the long-term fuel savings of an EV like the Ioniq 5 can outweigh its higher initial cost.
Federal tax credits and state/local incentives also help reduce the purchase price of EVs. Depending on where you live, total tax credits can reduce the Ioniq 5’s price by up to $7,500. The Prius Prime is no longer eligible for federal tax credits, though some state incentives may be available.
Both vehicles are projected to hold their value relatively well. The Prius Prime may maintain slightly higher resale value after 5 years at about 53% of original MSRP, versus 51% retention for the Ioniq 5. Strong demand for used EVs could boost resale on the Ioniq 5.
So while the Prius Prime asks less upfront, carefully weigh long-term operating costs against purchase price. The Ioniq 5 has a compelling cost case thanks to far lower “fueling” costs and available tax credits.
The Verdict
Based on this detailed comparative analysis, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out as the overall winner if you’re ready to ditch gas for an EV. It outperforms the Prius Prime across driving dynamics, charging speed, interior space, and advanced technology. For shoppers willing to spend a bit more upfront for an incredibly modern electric vehicle, the Ioniq 5 won’t disappoint.
However, the Prius Prime remains a great option for buyers who need gas backup for occasional long trips, or those who simply don’t drive enough all-electric miles to justify the price premium of the Ioniq 5. The Prius Prime provides greener transportation at a more affordable price point.
So which is the right green car for you? Ask yourself:
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Are you ready to go all-electric or do you need gas backup?
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How often do you drive long distances?
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Is freeing yourself from the gas pump worth paying more upfront to you?
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How important is leading-edge technology and driving performance?
If you answered yes to going all-electric and priority tech and driving excitement, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is your green car soulmate. For a greener ride on a budget, the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid is a great value. Either way, driving green feels so right!