The Toyota Prius Prime gets many upgrades for 2020 and remains the most efficient Toyota hybrid and one of the best options to protect drivers from price hikes at the gas pump.

The word "Prime," which is defined as being the best, or at the top, is a natural fit for the Prius model as it's the most technologically advanced, best-equipped Toyota Prius in the model's nearly two-decade global history. With the power to run in either EV or hybrid driving modes, Prius Prime strikes a harmonious balance between necessity and desire.

Prius Prime is the most efficient Toyota hybrid yet. When the electric charge goes out, Prius Prime has an EPA-estimated 54 combined mpg. Designed with intelligent tech, premium materials and thoughtful engineering, Prius Prime represents the next step of Toyota's continuous quest to reach more efficient mobility with less range-anxiety-without compromise.

With its EPA-estimated 640-mile total driving range and 25-mile EV Mode driving range, Prius Prime continues to raise the efficiency bar to help challenge what's possible. The powertrain is a Toyota first, thanks to a dual-motor drive system that improves acceleration in EV Mode for a fun drive. Prius Prime is also great for commuters as its HOV-approved as a single-occupant green vehicle in some states.

The Toyota Prius also offers an AWD-e system. Designed to provide more confidence and control when weather and road conditions are less than ideal, the electric all-wheel drive system expands where the Prius can take drivers.

Toyota's AWD-e automatic on-demand system does not require a center differential or other torque-apportioning device, nor does it need a front-to-rear driveshaft. Instead, the "e" in AWD-e stands for electric. The Prius AWD-e uses an independent electric, magnet-less rear motor (a Toyota first) to power the rear wheels from 0-to-6 mph, then when needed, up to 43 mph.