When looking for a hybrid that fits your needs you may be on the fence between the 2025 Kia Niro and the 2025 Toyota Prius. Both offer great fuel efficiency and a lot of cool features, but they offer something a bit different, as one is a small crossover and the other is a hatchback. Let’s dive deep into the 2025 Kia Niro vs Toyota Prius features and performance, so you can make a decision that suits your needs!
Key Takeaways
- Niro and Prius’ lineups see only minor changes for 2025.
- Prius trims start at $29,485 and go up to $36,500; Niro prices range from $28,385 to $42,185. Prices effective May 7, 2025.
- The Niro offers more trim options to meet your specific needs!
Which Hybrid Has More Trim Options: 2025 Kia Niro
Kia kept things low-key in terms of changes for 2025, with no big overhauls this year. One noticeable tweak? The blacked-out C-pillar has left the building. But there’s a win for SX Touring PHEV shoppers: the Cold Weather package now comes standard, bringing toasty perks like heated rear seats and an auxiliary heater.
Trim options are affordable and plentiful.
- LX: $28,385
- EX: $31,185
- EX Touring: $33,485
- SX: $34,385
- EX PHEV: $35,885
- SX Touring: $36,785
- SX Touring PHEV: $42,185
Prius changes are minor and cosmetic. The Nightshade Edition adds blacked-out touches like 19-inch wheels, badges, door handles, antenna, and black upholstery with gray stitching. You’ll also get puddle lights that shine the Prius logo on the ground with the choice of Wind Chill Pearl or Midnight Black Metallic.
The Prius has fewer trim options.
- LE: $29,485
- XL: $32,930
- Nightshade: $33,695
- Limited: $36,500
Which Hybrid Is More Powerful: 2025 Toyota Prius
The Kia Niro features a 139-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder and electric motor that pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid version pushes that number to 180 horsepower and around 33 miles of all-electric driving, thanks to its 11.1-kWh battery.
The Prius features a 194-hp 2.0-liter inline-four engine with two electric motors mated to a CVT. Front-wheel drive is standard with optional all-wheel drive. If you opt for AWD, Toyota adds a permanent-magnet electric motor to the rear axle, boosting the total horsepower to 196.
Which Hybrid’s Interior Is More Spacious: 2025 Kia Niro
The Niro strikes a nice balance between modern and classy—even with its eco-friendly materials like recycled fibers in the seats and headliner. Ambient lighting also gives it a more premium feel.
If space and practicality are high on your list, the Niro has a clear edge over the Prius. Since it's a small SUV, the Niro naturally offers more room for both passengers and cargo. Rear-seat riders will appreciate the extra headroom and legroom, and you'll have more flexibility when it comes to loading up groceries, gear, or luggage.
The Prius has decent space for a hatchback, but it's really built with efficiency in mind. The Niro offers up to 54.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded, while the Prius tops out at 50.7. It’s not a huge gap, but that extra space will come in handy.
Which Hybrid Should You Choose: 2025 Kia Niro
Ultimately, what vehicle you take home will depend on your needs, but for our money, the Kia Niro offers more space, versatility in style, all while allowing you to save money at the pump. If you’re still unsure of all it offers, we’re here when you’re ready to take a test drive!