The most fuel-efficient vehicle is also the best value on the market, period.
Introduction
The Toyota Prius launched in Japan in 1997 and made its debut in the U.S. in 2000 as a 2001 model year vehicle. The Prius quickly picked up steam and as of the 2013 model year, it is one of the most recognizable hybrid cars on the road.
Coming into the 2013 model year, the Toyota Prius is a carryover with the exception of its new trim level, the Three SE, which is also called the Persona Series Special Edition. In total, the Prius has five easy-to-remember trim levels: Two, Three, Three SE, Four and Five. All of the trims come with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors to create 134 horsepower that travels through a CVT to the front wheels. This combo nets the 2013 Prius 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway.
Which Style To Buy?
2013 Toyota Prius Two
Most PopularRecommended for: Buyers that want the added fuel economy of a hybrid without too many bells and whistles
The Two trim level is the base format for the 2013 Toyota Prius. On the outside, this trim level includes projector headlights with an auto-off feature for better nighttime vision, LED taillights, so people behind can see you more clearly, 15-inch five-spoke alloy wheels for a more stylish look, and an in-glass antenna for a smoother-looking body. On the inside, the Prius Two includes automatic climate control for perfect cabin temperature, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.1-inch display and USB port for audio enjoyment, a Multi-Information Display to allow you to track fuel economy, energy and the hybrid system easily, and power windows and door locks.
2013 Toyota Prius Three
Recommended for: Buyers looking that require navigation or just some upgraded features
The Prius Three build onto the base that the Prius Two started by adding in more standard features. On the outside, the Prius Two and Prius Three are literally identical, all the way down to the 15-inch five-spoke wheels. On the inside, however, the Prius Three some extra goodies, including a display audio with navigation and Entune to keep you entertained and to make sure you always arrive at your destination, a backup camera for added safety, a SofTex-wrapped steering wheel for a more luxurious look and feel, and the Smart Key system for all three doors and push-button starting for added convenience.
2013 Toyota Prius Three SE
Recommended for: Buyers looking for an exclusive-looking Prius
The 2013 Prius Three SE, which is also called the Prius Persona Series Special Edition, builds onto the Prius Three with an array of top-line features. On the outside, the Three SE adds in 17-inch alloy wheels in a premium finish for a sleek look, three exterior color options (Black, Blizzard Pearl or Persona Series-exclusive Black Cherry Pearl), and Persona Series exterior badges. On the inside, the Three SE adds in a Charcoal SofTex interior with black accents for added style, dark-red contrast stitching for a sportier look, and dark-chrome accents on the shifter-knob ring, door grips and steering wheel to cap off the custom interior look.
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Best Alternatives
2013 Honda Insight
Low base price and Honda quality, but unrefined, not great mpg compared to Prius and poor base features
2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
Powerful powertrain and decent base price, but not great city mpg and Ford's infotainment is clunky at best
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
Equivalent base price, VW's outstanding quality and plenty of power, but low city mpg and bland styling
2012 Honda Civic Hybrid
Low base price, Honda Civic quality and powerful engine, but not stellar mpg and lacks refinement
