The base 2027 Toyota Prius LE trim on 16-in. wheels delivers the best efficiency in the lineup. XLE, Nightshade, and Limited ride on larger 18-in. wheels, which slightly reduces their combined ratings but adds a bit more road presence and grip. Whichever trim you choose, the 2027 Prius remains near the top of the compact hybrid segment for combined fuel economy.

• LE (FWD): up to an EPA-estimated 57 mpg city / 56 mpg highway
• LE (AWD): an EPA-estimated 53 mpg city / 54 mpg highway
• XLE, Nightshade, Limited (FWD): an EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined
• XLE, Nightshade, Limited (AWD): an EPA-estimated 49 mpg city / 50 mpg highway
• All ratings apply across the four available trims regardless of exterior color or interior configuration

The 2027 Toyota Prius pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with one or two electric motors, depending on drivetrain, through Toyota's fifth-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The larger displacement over prior generations was tuned specifically to balance efficiency with everyday drivability, so the car never feels strained even when merging onto the highway or climbing a grade.

• 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gas engine
• Electric motor(s) working in tandem with the gas engine via a CVT
• EV Mode for short, low-speed stretches on electric power alone
• ECO Mode to help maximize efficiency on longer drives
• Power Mode for sharper throttle response when merging or passing

Adding Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive brings a modest reduction in fuel economy in exchange for added traction. The rear electric motor engages only when needed, so the mpg penalty compared to FWD models is relatively small, and most drivers will barely notice the difference in daily commuting unless they're regularly driving in snow or heavy rain.

• AWD models still return 49 to 54 mpg combined depending on trim
• Rear motor engages automatically in low-traction conditions
• No mechanical driveshaft, which helps limit the efficiency and weight penalty typically associated with AWD systems
• Available on all four 2027 Prius trims for buyers who want extra confidence in poor weather

EPA ratings are a helpful baseline for comparing trims, but real-world fuel economy will vary based on driving style, terrain, and climate. Drivers who spend more time in stop-and-go city conditions often see mileage that matches or exceeds the EPA city estimate, since the hybrid system is most efficient at lower speeds, drawing more heavily on electric power during starts and stops.

• City driving tends to favor the Prius' hybrid system, often matching or beating EPA city estimates
• Highway driving at higher, steadier speeds tends to align closely with EPA highway ratings
• Cold weather can temporarily reduce efficiency until the engine and cabin reach normal operating temperature