The Prius and the Volt are redesigned this year, and last Friday Consumer Reports posted a comparo of sorts.

While of course they are in different segments, the publication was loosely lumping them into the electrified gas-saver category as justification to compare and contrast, and did so for general automotive categories of performance, design, utility, etc.

“First, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why should you care about being green, when gas is so cheap right now?” posed the magazine. “Well, saving money is always a good thing. The new Prius boasts even better fuel mileage, while the Volt can drive significantly further on a single electric charge.”

There’s also the feel-good factor of helping to save the planet, added CR, plus gas savings is a hedge in case gas prices go back up.



The cross-comparison of the powertrains covers territory familiar to readers of GM-Volt. The Prius is a hybrid, it always needs gas – 52 mpg worth, according to the EPA – and CR has seen an actual 50 in its testing.

The Volt goes gas free for 52 miles which means it may go gas free a long time in practical use, because many won’t need that much, or they may do intra-day charging to increase range. In CS mode, the Volt gets 42 mpg.

On the road, the Volt is an EV with extended range, CR correctly said. This contrasts from blended PHEVs which will kick the gas on with a floored accelerator. CR says it gets 49 miles e-range without trying hard.

Power is in the Volt’s favor, but neither car is downright slow.

“While the Prius isn’t slow, it lacks the Volt’s zip” said CR. “Its gas/electric combination is incapable of generating much low-end torque. Clearly, Toyota’s emphasis is on fuel economy.”

In the turns also, both automakers have made strides with better handling vehicles.

"Twisty bits aren’t either car’s forte, but neither disappoints,” said CR defying claims of sportiness by Chevrolet and Toyota. “The Volt turns in quickly, but that agility seems to wane if you keep up the pace. The Prius has less roll and a more settled feel than the floppy, numb version it replaces.”

In the Volt’s favor is power delivery.

“There’s a rewarding feeling when driving the Volt in full-electric mode, with its whirring flow of power.” Said CR. “While the Prius has an EV mode, it’s only if you feather the throttle at low speeds.”

Style wise – both vehicles are refreshed. We’ve heard the bashing some have felt like giving the Prius. The Volt looks more mainstream.

Inside, CR goes over a bit of details.

Inside, both cars were given thorough revamps. The Prius has shed its abundant hard and hollow plastic, replaced with some soft-touch bits and higher-grade fabrics. Not all of us are fond of the white plastic trim, with some likening the center storage tray to a Stormtrooper’s bedpan. The vivid and colorful center-dash-mounted gauge display is an improvement.
The Prius’ wide, firm front seats should suit varied body types versus the Volt’s somewhat short, cushioned ones. Neither the Volt LT nor the Prius Three come with adjustable lumbar support, which is, surprising at these price points. The Prius’ door and center armrests could use more padding, while the Volt’s left footrest is positioned too close for comfort for most drivers.
The Volt’s black-on-black cabin isn’t flashy, but we appreciate the center stack’s layout of conventional knobs and buttons, and the prominent, intuitive touch screen display. The Volt’s heater took forever to get going, making it necessary to buy the optional seat and steering wheel heaters. Neither car is easy to see out of, especially through the Toyota’s split rear window, although both have a standard rear camera. Each offers blind-spot monitoring, but only on the expensive trims.

Bottom line, CR stands back and asks which works best for you? Then it gives its view.



But the Prius comes across as more normal—assuming you aren’t turned off by its styling. The interior is roomier and easier to see out of, cargo space is significantly bigger, and you never have to feel guilty because you forgot to plug it in. It’s impressively stingy with fuel and has long been extremely reliable.

Pricing for the Prius Two begins at $24,200 and goes up to $30,000 for the Four Touring. Volt pricing starts at $33,220 for the LT and $37,570 for the Premier. The Volt benefits from the $7,500 federal tax incentive available to electric car buyers, in addition to incentives in some states. Check your state’s website for available credits.



Consumer Reports