MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Toyota Prius Prime

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Toyota Prius Prime

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
10Complaints
1Investigations
ABOUT THE TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME

The Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid sedan competing in the compact car segment, aimed squarely at fuel-conscious commuters who want the flexibility of electric driving without full EV commitment. As the PHEV variant of Toyota's iconic Prius line, it targets buyers who prioritize efficiency and low running costs alongside a reputation for sensible, practical transportation. Safety-minded shoppers have good reason to put it on their shortlist.

VERDICT

The 2021 Toyota Prius Prime earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Prius Prime as a practical, well-rounded plug-in hybrid that delivers on its core promise of efficiency and everyday usability. Most praise its composed, predictable driving character and the thoughtful integration of its hybrid system. Some reviewers note that the driving experience prioritizes smoothness over engagement, which suits its target audience well.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 10.7%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15191

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record17.5/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Toyota Prius Prime at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

10 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

4reported crash
0reported fire
2reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 4Service Brakes 3Fuel/Propulsion System 2Power Train 2Back Over Prevention 1Forward Collision Avoidance 1

Other Prius Prime years

Rivals in Sedan (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15191), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Toyota Prius Prime 2021. Class rank 43 of 94 in Sedan 2021. Methodology · Disclosure