Alternative fuels have made a massive splash in the last few years. If you want to take a plunge, two affordable EVs can give you a great head start. Toyota‘s 2023 Prius Prime has a history of excellent performance, great fuel economy, and affordable pricing. Another fantastic option is the Chevy Bolt, well within the range of cheaper internal combustion vehicles.
With all this in mind, how does the new Prius Prime stack against the Chevy Bolt? Both are within the same price point but have some key differences. Whether switching to EV or you’re an aspiring customer, our 2023 Prius Prime vs Chevy Bolt guide can help you make a better purchase decision.
Overview of the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime and Chevy Bolt EV
The Toyota Prius Prime and Chevy Bolt EV occupy an interesting middle ground in the electrified vehicle market – more affordable than luxury brands like Tesla, but with better technology than older hybrids.
Toyota Prius Prime
The Prius Prime is the plug-in hybrid variant of Toyota’s hit Prius lineup. First debuting in 2017, the Prime features an efficient gas-electric powertrain, up to 25 miles of EV range, and sleek styling.
For 2023, Toyota has carried over the Prime largely unchanged, save for some minor feature tweaks. Pricing starts at $32,349 before incentives.
Chevy Bolt EV
The Chevy Bolt EV first arrived in 2017 as well, marking the American automaker’s first fully electric model. With 238 miles of range and DC fast charging capability, it can handle most daily driving needs.
Chevy has also kept changes minimal for 2023. A new color option and standard active safety features headline updates. The Bolt EV starts at $27,495 before rebates.
Dimensional Comparison
Being from different manufacturers, the Prime and Bolt EV have distinct designs inside and out. Here‘s how they stack up dimensionally:
| Specification | 2023 Toyota Prius Prime | 2023 Chevy Bolt EV |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 181.1 inches | 163.2 inches |
| Width | 70.1 inches | 69.5 inches |
| Height | 55.9 inches | 63.4 inches |
| Wheelbase | 108.3 inches | 102.4 inches |
| Headroom (Front/Rear) | 38/37.4 inches | 39.7/37.9 inches |
| Passenger Volume | 88.5 cubic ft | 94 cubic ft |
| Cargo Volume | 19.8 cubic ft | 16.6 cubic ft |
The Prius Prime is longer from bumper to bumper, while the Bolt EV stands 3.5 inches taller. Cabin space is similar, though the Bolt EV‘s boxier shape gives it a bit more overall passenger room. The Prime counterbalances with more cargo capacity.
Powertrain and Driving Range
The Prius Prime utilizes Toyota‘s venerable hybrid system, while the Bolt EV is purely electric. This results in different ranges and driving characteristics.
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Powertrain
- 1.8L 4-cylinder gas engine + electric motors
- 640 lb-ft combined hybrid system output
- 25 miles EV range
- 54 MPG combined gasoline hybrid driving
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Powertrain
- Single electric motor
- 200 horsepower/266 lb-ft torque output
- 259 miles EPA estimated range
- MPGe of 118 city/104 highway
The Prius Prime’s small battery allows short all-electric trips, while its gas tank provides total range similar to conventional cars. Fuel economy remains excellent even when the engine is running.
Contrastingly, the Bolt EV offers 3.5x the EV range for emissions-free commuting. MPGe trails the Prime but range anxiety is minimal with DC fast charging capability.
Charging Comparison
Recharging time is a key consideration given these vehicles‘ electric capabilities:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Charging
- 5.5-hour charge time @ 120V outlet
- 2 hours @ 240V charging station
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Charging
- 4 miles per hour @ 120V outlet
- 50 miles in 30 minutes @ DC fast charger
The Prius Prime adds roughly 25 miles per hour connected to a home outlet. Public charging can refill its smaller battery in around 2 hours.
Thanks to DC fast charging, the Bolt EV can add 95+ miles in 30 minutes. But a full charge takes nearly a day on household power.
Performance and Handling
Don‘t expect sports car acceleration, but both models deliver smooth, quick-enough driving:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Performance
- 0-60 MPH in 6.6 seconds
- Top speed of 121 MPH
- Tight turning radius for easy parking
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Performance
- 0-60 MPH in 6.5 seconds
- Top speed of 93 MPH (electronically limited)
- 36.4 ft. turning circle
- Low center of gravity for stability
The electrified powertrains provide strong torque for brisk city driving. The Prime edges out highway passing power, while the Bolt EV‘s battery placement gives it very responsive handling.
Interior Comfort and Cargo
Occupants can ride in relaxed comfort in either model, with the Prius Prime offering more luggage room:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Interior
- Spacious front and rear seating
- Heated front seats on lower trims
- 60/40 split folding rear seats
- 19.8 cubic ft cargo capacity
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Interior
- Ample headroom with flat rear floor
- Available heated front/rear seats
- 56.6 cubic ft with rear seats folded
- 16.6 cubic ft behind rear seat
Both provide generous passenger space, especially in the front row. The Prime secures the win on cargo flexibility thanks to its hybrid battery placement.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Occupants will feel connected with either model‘s technology features:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Technology
- 8-inch touchscreen
- 6-speaker audio system
- Android Auto/Apple CarPlay/Alexa
- Integrated navigation on some trims
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Technology
- 10.2-inch touchscreen
- 6-speaker Bose audio system
- Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
The Prime‘s interface is starting to feel dated next to the Bolt EV‘s crisp touch display. However, both satisfy tech needs with smartphone integration and available embedded navigation.
Safety Technology Comparison
The latest driver aids provide confidence on the road:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Safety Features
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (AEB w/ped detect, LDA, AHB)
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) w/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- 10 airbags
- Rear seat reminder
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Safety Features
- Chevy Safety Assist (FCW, AEB, pedestrian braking)
- HD rearview camera
- Rear park assist
- Teen driver feature
Toyota equips the Prime well with its Toyota Safety Sense system and extra airbags. Chevy counters with safety tech like rear auto braking and a special mode for young drivers.
Cost to Own Comparison
Affordability makes these two models stand out, but total ownership costs differ:
2023 Toyota Prius Prime Ownership Costs
- $32,349 starting MSRP
- Up to $4,502 federal tax credit
- $0 scheduled maintenance 2 years/25k miles
- Insurance: $1,200-$1,600 annually
2023 Chevy Bolt EV Ownership Costs
- $27,495 starting MSRP
- Up to $7,500 federal tax credit
- Battery coolant maintenance
- Insurance: $900-$1,300 annually
The Bolt EV comes out ahead on both purchase price and potential rebates. However, the Prius Prime averages lower insurance payments. Both offer worry-free reliability — the Prime requiring no scheduled maintenance for 2 years.
Which Is the Better Buy?
With the tradeoffs covered, should you go Prius Prime or Chevy Bolt? Here is how we recommend deciding:
The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is best for:
- Hybrid fans wanting short electric hops
- Highway travelers and long commuters
- Shoppers wanting more cargo flexibility
The 2023 Chevy Bolt EV is ideal for:
- Drivers needing 200+ miles daily range
- Urban residents with reliable home/public charging
- Buyers maximizing EV tax incentives
The Prius Prime continues as the efficiency king while packing versatility. The Bolt EV wins on EV purity and wallet-friendliness. Choose what best aligns with your priorities. Those needing uncompromised range and backseat space may also consider the larger Chevy Bolt EUV.
In the future, Toyota plans more Prius variants while Chevy aims for affordability with the Equinox EV. For now, early adopters have two compelling plug-in options. With practical range and reasonable pricing, the 2023 Prius Prime and Chevy Bolt keep electric mobility within reach.