What year is Prius 4?

The fourth-generation Prius, often referred to as Prius Gen 4, was introduced for the 2016 model year (unveiled in 2015) and was produced through the 2022 model year in most markets.

Context: what the fourth generation means for the Prius

Prius Gen 4 represents the fourth major redesign of Toyota’s cornerstone hybrid, marked by a refreshed design, updated hybrid system, and incremental technology improvements over Gen 3. In broad terms, if you’re shopping for a Prius 4, you’re looking at a model sold roughly between 2016 and 2022, though exact years can vary by country due to local launch schedules and model year naming.

Gen 4 timeline

Below is a concise timeline of the fourth-generation Prius, highlighting the key production and market milestones that define this generation. The following list outlines when Gen 4 began, notable variants, and when the generation ended in favor of the next generation.

• 2015: Toyota publicly reveals the fourth-generation Prius (XW50) and announces it will start as the 2016 model year in most markets.


• 2017: The Prius Prime plug-in variant is offered within the Gen 4 lineup, expanding the range of hybrid options.


• 2019–2020: The generation receives mid-cycle updates to styling, infotainment, and safety features, helping keep the model competitive with newer rivals.


• 2022: The Gen 4 Prius concludes its production in many regions as Toyota shifts to the fifth generation (Gen 5) for the 2023 model year.

In summary, the fourth-generation Prius spans roughly the 2016–2022 model years in most markets, with a transition to Gen 5 beginning with the 2023 model year.

What this means for buyers and owners

For shoppers, identifying a Gen 4 Prius usually comes down to model year and styling cues associated with the XW50 design language, as well as available variants like the Prius Prime. If you’re buying used, check the VIN and confirm the model year with the seller to ensure you’re looking at Gen 4 versus Gen 5 equipment and features.

Summary

The Prius 4 refers to Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid, launched for the 2016 model year after a 2015 reveal and commonly sold through the 2022 model year. The Gen 4 era included the addition of the Prius Prime plug-in variant and various tech updates before giving way to Gen 5 in 2023. This framing helps distinguish Gen 4 models from earlier generations and the current generation in production.

How much is a 2017 Prius 4 worth?

A 2017 Toyota Prius Four Hatchback 4D has depreciated $8,851 or 42% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $11,948 and trade-in value of $10,708.

What year is the gen 4 Prius?

2016–2022
Prius (4th generation, 2016–2022)

What year is Prius 3?

The third-generation Toyota Prius was produced from 2009 to 2016, with model years typically listed as 2010–2015. The first model year was 2010, and the generation concluded with the 2015 model year.
 
You can watch this video for a complete overview of the 3rd generation Prius: 59sColin LeungYouTube · Feb 21, 2025

• Production years: 2009–2016
• Model years: 2010–2015 

What's the difference between Prius 3 and 4?

The main differences are that the 4th generation Prius (2016-2022) offers a quieter ride, improved fuel efficiency, and more modern technology like standard safety features (e.g., lane keeping assist, radar cruise control), while the 3rd generation (2010-2015) is often praised for its reliability and lower maintenance costs. The 4th generation has some known issues, particularly with early lithium-ion batteries in cold weather, and a more polarizing design. The 3rd generation had head gasket issues on earlier models (2010-2011).
 
You can watch this video to see a comparison between the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Prius: 59sMilton Martin ToyotaYouTube · Jul 24, 2013
3rd Generation (2010-2015)

• Pros:
  • Proven reliability, with a reputation for being low-maintenance and durable. 
  • Lower initial cost. 
  • Some users prefer the exterior styling. 
• Cons:
  • Some earlier models (2010-2011) were known for head gasket issues related to the EGR system. 
  • Lacks modern safety features and tech like Apple CarPlay. 

4th Generation (2016-2022)

• Pros:
  • Improved efficiency and a quieter, smoother ride due to a new global architecture (TNGA). 
  • Comes with modern safety features like lane keeping assist and radar cruise control. 
  • Some models offer plug-in hybrid capability (the "Prime"). 
• Cons:
  • Some early lithium-ion batteries reportedly don't perform as well in cold weather. 
  • The new design is a matter of personal preference and is considered less conventionally attractive by some. 

You can watch this video to see a comparison between the older Gen 3 and new Gen 5 Prius: 55sKirk KreifelsYouTube · Feb 8, 2024
Which should you choose?

• Choose the 3rd Generation if your priority is a lower purchase price and proven, lower-cost-of-ownership reliability, as long as you avoid the very early model years (2010-2011) or are aware of and prepared for potential head gasket issues. 
• Choose the 4th Generation if you prioritize modern safety features, improved fuel efficiency, a quieter and more comfortable ride, and technology like standard driver assists, and are willing to pay a higher price for these improvements.