How does the Prius differ from the Prius Touring model?

The Toyota Prius is widely regarded as one of the leading hybrid gas-electric vehicles of the past decade. What exactly is the Prius, and why does it appeal to environmentally-conscious drivers? To summarize, the Prius is a full hybrid featuring both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. It can operate solely on electric power for speeds up to about 42 miles per hour (68 kilometers per hour) before the gas engine activates. The electric motor also provides support to the gas engine during acceleration, and the regenerative braking system helps recharge the car's batteries.

The Prius boasts a rich history as a forward-thinking vehicle. It was first unveiled in Japan in October 1997, making its market debut there that December. The Prius didn't hit U.S. shores until July 2000 (for the 2001 model year), but it quickly captured the attention of Hollywood stars. Despite the early model's bumpy ride, celebrities flocked to purchase the eco-friendly car, and it quickly earned its place among environmentally-conscious drivers.

In its inaugural year, the car received numerous prestigious awards:

The significantly enhanced second-generation Prius arrived in the U.S. in 2003. This is the version we are most familiar with, characterized by its short, slanted hood and nearly upright rear end. The hybrid system was significantly upgraded to deliver a smoother ride and faster acceleration. In 2007, Toyota introduced the Touring Edition. The next evolution of the Prius, featuring additional refinements, became available in June 2009.

Since its launch, Toyota has sold over a million Priuses globally. While many cars are offered in multiple variants—base, sport, touring, EX, and more—the Prius has had just two options: the base model and the Touring Edition. In automotive terminology, "touring" typically signifies a model with additional features to enhance the driving experience, and the Prius is no different.

So, what exactly separates the Prius from the Prius Touring? Let’s take a look at what the Touring model offers that the regular Prius doesn’t.

Comparing the Prius and Prius Touring Models

The base Prius and the Touring edition are very similar, particularly in terms of their drivetrain. Both feature a 4-cylinder aluminum gasoline engine paired with a 50 kilowatt (kW) electric motor, powered by nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. Together, the hybrid system generates 110 horsepower—not the fastest ride, but certainly efficient. The Prius shines in fuel economy, achieving 48 miles per gallon (20 kilometers per liter) in the city and 46 miles per gallon (19 kilometers per liter) on the highway.

Both models come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which replaces the conventional gear system for smoother acceleration and deceleration. Both the Prius and Prius Touring are equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS), traction control, power windows and doors, push-button ignition, air conditioning, and other standard features.

All Prius models come with a variety of available options, such as a backup camera, premium sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system, and leather-trimmed steering wheel and seats.

The Touring Edition enhances the Prius with a few unique additions. Here's a breakdown:

These upgrades don’t affect the car's fuel efficiency, emissions, hybrid system, or any of the other factors that have made the Prius a favorite among journalists and customers alike. In fact, most of the awards the Prius has earned in the last decade have been for the base model, if the awarding body even distinguished between versions.

The price difference between the two models is minimal. Without any added options, the base 2009 Prius started at $22,000, while the 2009 Prius Touring Edition, with its additional features, began at $24,270. Neither price includes the destination charge or any applicable federal or state incentives.

The major updates come with the 2010 Prius, which will be available in the U.S. starting in June 2009. Let’s explore the changes.

The Third Generation Prius

For the third-generation Prius, Toyota made several significant changes, while maintaining the same general shape and profile of previous models. The gasoline engine remains a four-cylinder, but now it includes four valves per cylinder for extra power. The electric motor has been upgraded to 80 kW, and the combined engine and motor now deliver 134 horsepower. Fuel efficiency has also improved, with the Prius achieving 51 miles per gallon (22 kilometers per liter) in the city and 48 miles per gallon (20 kilometers per liter) on the highway.

The 2010 Prius comes in a single version, equipped with standard ABS, stability control, and traction control. The standard stereo system has been upgraded to support MP3 files, along with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. Additional features include cruise control, as well as high solar energy absorbing (HSEA) glass.

However, the basic Prius is just the starting point for those who desire more options. Factory packages offer a voice-activated navigation system, a solar roof panel to power interior fans, and the "Advanced Technology" package, which combines the navigation system with additional features like a pre-collision system, lane assist, park assist, and radar cruise control.

For those who want a little extra flair with their eco-friendly vehicle, the 2010 Prius can be equipped with fog lamps and 17-inch wheels.