2022 Toyota Prius vs 2022 Kia Niro

Toyota Prius

The 2022 Toyota Prius remains a remarkably efficient hatchback, but it's no longer the must-have hybrid it once was. Its wedge-shaped design aims to maximize fuel economy, but it's not aesthetically pleasing. The powertrain musters a measly 121 horsepower, which amounts to lazy acceleration. And while the Prius Eco model boasts an EPA combined rating of 56 mpg, the Hyundai Ioniq Blue outperforms it, achieving 59 mpg. On the plus side, the Prius is the only compact hybrid that offers all-wheel drive, but that doesn't improve its apathetic driving manners. The Toyota just isn't nearly as compelling as the Honda Insight sedan, and the Toyota Corolla Hybrid is less expensive and almost as fuel efficient. Alas, the 2022 Prius struggles for relevancy in a segment it helped create.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Prius's hybrid powertrain doesn't deliver thrilling or even amusing acceleration, which is a shame. Several competitors prove that acceptable performance needn't be sacrificed in the pursuit of world-beating fuel economy. Nor does the 2022 Prius offer much in the way of driving enjoyment or refinement. All-wheel-drive models feature an electric motor that functions separately from the hybrid system and powers the rear wheels. Braking is a common gremlin for hybrid vehicles, which use a mix of regenerative and friction braking. Inconsistent or numb feedback from the brake pedal as we experienced in the Prius is often the trade-off and, combined with the low-rolling-resistance tires that most hybrids wear, can make for longer braking distances than what we see from similar-size nonhybrid vehicles.

Kia Niro

As Kia's smallest SUV, the 2022 Niro provides practicality and value in a petite package. But the Niro is unique in its segment due to its hybrid powertrains; rivals such as the Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona don't offer such an option. The entry-level powertrain is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that combines with an electric motor to make 139 horsepower. A plug-in hybrid version is also offered and can drive up to 26 miles on electric power before engaging the gasoline engine. The Niro isn't as fun to drive as some of its competitors but for buyers seeking an SUV with impressive fuel efficiency, there are few choices better than a Niro hybrid. If you're interested in going all the way electric, Kia also offers the Niro EV, which we review separately.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor team up with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in the regular Niro. The system makes a total of 139 horsepower and motivated the Niro to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds during our testing, placing it in the hunt with much of the competition. The fully loaded EX Premium trim we tested, which was weighed down by all the extra equipment, needed 9.5 seconds to complete the same task. The plug-in-hybrid version uses the same basic powertrain as the standard model, albeit with a larger battery pack for increased EV range. That battery adds up to 26 miles of EV operation, according to the EPA. The Niro easily tackles uneven roads, delivering a controlled, stable ride. However, we noted an unusual level of impact noise coming into the cabin when driving over bump-ridden roads. Steering responses in the Niro are swift and accurate. We also appreciate the available multipurpose steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, which can be used for changing gears or cycling between four levels of regenerative braking, depending on the selected drive mode.

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