Among the available configurations, the 2027 Toyota Prius LE with front-wheel drive provides the highest estimated fuel economy. Its lighter 16-inch wheels help it achieve better ratings than the XLE, Nightshade, and Limited trims, which use larger 18-inch wheels.

The larger wheels found on upper trims contribute to a more substantial road presence and enhanced grip, though they result in a modest reduction in efficiency. Exterior color and interior selections do not change the listed fuel economy ratings for each trim and drivetrain combination.

• XLE, Nightshade, and Limited AWD: EPA-estimated 49 mpg city and 50 mpg highway
• LE FWD: up to an EPA-estimated 57 mpg city and 56 mpg highway
• Ratings remain the same regardless of exterior color or interior configuration
• LE AWD: EPA-estimated 53 mpg city and 54 mpg highway
• XLE, Nightshade, and Limited FWD: EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined

Toyota’s fifth-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive system combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motor assistance. Front-wheel-drive models use one electric motor, while all-wheel-drive configurations add a separate rear motor.

The increased engine displacement compared with earlier Prius generations helps provide stronger everyday performance while preserving excellent efficiency. Power is delivered through a continuously variable transmission, allowing the gas engine and electric motor system to work together smoothly during acceleration, highway merging, and uphill travel.

• ECO Mode helps reduce fuel consumption during longer trips
• 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine
• Power Mode sharpens throttle response for passing and merging
• Continuously variable transmission works with the gasoline engine and electric motor system
• EV Mode supports short periods of low-speed electric-only driving

Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive is available across all four 2027 Toyota Prius trims. Rather than using a conventional mechanical driveshaft, the system relies on a rear-mounted electric motor that activates automatically when additional traction is needed.

This design helps limit the added weight and efficiency loss commonly associated with traditional all-wheel-drive systems. While AWD models have slightly lower estimates than comparable front-wheel-drive versions, they still provide excellent fuel economy along with greater confidence in snow, rain, and other low-traction conditions.

• Available on LE, XLE, Nightshade, and Limited trims
• AWD configurations return approximately 49 to 54 mpg, depending on trim
• Rear electric motor activates automatically when traction conditions require it
• No mechanical driveshaft, helping reduce additional weight and efficiency loss

Actual mileage can differ from EPA estimates depending on temperature, road conditions, terrain, vehicle load, and driving habits. The ratings are useful for comparing configurations, but everyday results will depend on how and where the vehicle is driven.

The 2027 Toyota Prius hybrid system can perform especially well in urban traffic because it frequently uses electric assistance during low-speed acceleration and stop-and-go travel. Highway mileage is generally closer to published estimates because the vehicle operates at steadier, higher speeds. Cold temperatures may temporarily lower efficiency while the engine and passenger compartment warm up.

• Stop-and-go city driving may match or exceed EPA city estimates
• Cold weather can temporarily decrease fuel economy
• Steady highway driving generally produces results close to EPA highway ratings