Choosing the right plug-in hybrid vehicle can be a tough decision. Two popular contenders often top the lists: the Toyota Prius Prime and the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. Both offer impressive fuel efficiency and electric vehicle (EV) range, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Having spent considerable time with a Prius Prime before upgrading to a Clarity, I’m here to provide an objective, experience-based comparison to help you decide which plug-in hybrid is the better choice for you.
While my move to the Clarity speaks volumes, the Prius Prime certainly isn’t without its merits. Let’s start by acknowledging where the Prius Prime shines:
Prius Prime Advantages: The Short List
- Superior Cruise Control and Autopilot Smoothness: The Prius Prime’s adaptive cruise control system is noticeably smoother. It decelerates gently when approaching other vehicles and accelerates gradually, mimicking a careful and experienced driver. In contrast, the Clarity’s system can feel somewhat abrupt, with less refined braking and acceleration. This difference in smoothness is a significant plus for driving comfort in the Prius Prime.
- Highest Hybrid MPG Ratings: The Prius Prime boasts top-tier MPG ratings when operating in hybrid mode. If maximizing fuel efficiency is your absolute priority, the Prius Prime holds a slight edge in this area.
- Extended Combined Driving Range: For those concerned about long journeys, the Prius Prime offers a longer combined driving range, reaching nearly 600 miles compared to the Clarity’s approximately 375 miles. This extended range can be reassuring for drivers who frequently take long trips.
- Hatchback Versatility: While subjective, the hatchback design of the Prius Prime offers undeniable versatility. The ability to fold down the rear seats and access a large cargo area through the hatchback makes it easier to transport bulky items. Although the Clarity has a surprisingly spacious trunk, the hatchback of the Prius Prime offers a different level of practicality, especially for carrying larger items.
- Highly Customizable Information Display: The Prius Prime provides a wealth of information display settings that are highly customizable. Drivers can tailor the LCD screens to show precisely the data they deem most important. While the Clarity’s display is arguably more aesthetically pleasing and conventionally positioned, the Prius Prime’s customization options offer a deeper level of personalization for tech-savvy users.
- Stylish Alloy Wheels (Underneath Hubcaps): A hidden gem of the Prius Prime is its attractive alloy wheels, revealed by simply removing the plastic hubcaps. This provides a free and instant style upgrade. Removing the wheel covers on the Clarity, however, reveals less appealing wheels.
- Larger Center Console Storage: For everyday practicality, the Prius Prime offers more generous storage space in its center console, a useful feature for keeping personal items organized while on the go.
- The Essential Volume Knob: A simple yet crucial feature for many drivers, the Prius Prime includes a physical volume knob, a feature sometimes overlooked in modern car designs but appreciated for its ease of use.
Clarity Advantages: Where the Clarity Pulls Ahead
Now, let’s delve into the areas where the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid truly excels and why it ultimately won me over:
- Significantly Longer Electric Battery Range: The Clarity’s extended electric range was the primary catalyst for my switch from the Prius Prime. This was the single biggest point of dissatisfaction with the Prime. The Clarity offers a substantially longer EV range, allowing for more all-electric driving and reduced reliance on gasoline. This increased range translates to more potential for zero-emission commutes and daily driving.
- Comfortable Seating for Five: Unlike the Prius Prime, which officially seats only four, the Clarity comfortably accommodates five passengers. This added seating capacity makes the Clarity a more practical choice for families or those who frequently carpool.
- Spacious Trunk and Clever Storage Solutions: Trunk space is where the Clarity truly shines in comparison to the Prius Prime. The Clarity offers a significantly larger trunk, defying expectations for a plug-in hybrid. Furthermore, it includes a hidden compartment under the trunk floor, providing even more storage capacity. This clever design contrasts sharply with the Prius Prime, where the battery placement noticeably compromises trunk space. The Clarity designers clearly prioritized usable space and integrated the battery pack more seamlessly.
- Superior Audio Upgrade Platform: For audiophiles, the Clarity presents a far more accommodating platform for audio upgrades. It features a dedicated space beneath the trunk floor, originally intended for a jack and tools, which is perfect for housing aftermarket audio equipment like DSPs and amplifiers. Combined with excellent front tweeter placement, the Clarity is primed for creating a high-end sound system, a project that felt impractical and space-compromising in the Prius Prime.
- More Refined and Appealing Styling: While styling is subjective, the Clarity generally presents a more upscale and less overtly “eco-conscious” aesthetic than the Prius Prime. The Clarity’s design is arguably more universally appealing. While the rear wheel covers are a nod to aerodynamic efficiency reminiscent of early EVs, the Clarity’s overall design, particularly the striking front end with its exceptional driving lights, is undeniably handsome.
- Enhanced Climate Control Performance: The Clarity’s air conditioning is more powerful and responsive, and the temperature settings feel more accurate and consistent. While heating wasn’t tested, the AC performance suggests a generally superior climate control system. Past experiences with the Prius Prime’s inadequate heating in cold weather further highlight the Clarity’s potential advantage in overall climate comfort.
- Increased Comfort Levels: The Clarity offers a more comfortable ride and overall cabin experience, even in the base model. The seats and interior materials contribute to a more pleasant and relaxed driving environment.
- Quieter Cabin and Ride: The Clarity provides a quieter ride than the Prius Prime, with improved sound insulation. This results in a more serene and luxurious driving experience, reducing road noise and enhancing passenger comfort.
- Luxurious Ride Quality: The Clarity’s ride quality is exceptionally smooth, approaching that of a true luxury car. To achieve a similar level of ride smoothness in the Toyota family, one would likely need to step up to a Lexus. The Clarity delivers a premium ride experience that surpasses expectations for its class.
Conclusion: Embracing the Clarity
In conclusion, while the Toyota Prius Prime holds its own with advantages in cruise control smoothness, MPG, range, hatchback versatility, information display customization, and subtle wheel styling, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid ultimately emerges as the superior vehicle in this comparison. For me, the Clarity’s significantly longer EV range, greater passenger and cargo space, audio upgrade potential, more appealing styling, enhanced comfort, quieter cabin, and luxurious ride quality make it a clear winner. If you prioritize these aspects in a plug-in hybrid, the Honda Clarity is undoubtedly the stronger contender and a truly satisfying upgrade.
