Toyota is turning heads in 2026 with the launch of the Prius Plug‑in Hybrid Nightshade Edition, adding a fierce and stylish new look to the Prius family.
Built on the sporty and well-equipped XSE trim, the Nightshade Edition intensifies the plugin’s sleek profile with a suite of commanding black accents. From the grille and badging to the door sills, handles, and bumper trim, every detail is cloaked in deep black paint, creating a unified, bold aesthetic that stands out whether parked or in motion. Driving this design upgrade are the striking 19-inch black-finished alloy wheels—a dynamic touch that injects sporty confidence into Toyota’s signature plug‑in platform. Nightshade buyers have three captivating colorways to choose from: Karashi (exclusive to this edition), Wind Chill Pearl, and Midnight Black Metallic. These finishes blend elegance and attitude, underscoring Prius’s evolution toward sharper style.
For 2026, Toyota is bringing a four‑grade line-up for the Prius Plug‑in Hybrid: SE, XSE, Nightshade Edition (based on XSE), and XSE Premium. The SE model boasts a 13.6 kWh lithium‑ion battery and an estimated 44 miles of all-electric range. The XSE, Nightshade, and XSE Premium trims each deliver around 40 miles of EV range. That means nearly daily commuting routines can often be completed on electric power alone—ideal for eco-conscious drivers aiming to minimize gas use.
Underneath the sleek exterior, the 2026 Prius Plug‑in Hybrid is powered by Toyota’s advanced fifth‑generation Toyota Hybrid System, pairing a 2.0-liter M20A‑FXS inline-four engine with two motor-generators (MG1 & MG2). This setup forms a modified planetary CVT configuration, allowing the system to balance power and efficiency seamlessly. Total system output is approximately 220 net horsepower, delivering zippy acceleration and responsive passing performance. Fuel efficiency offers an estimated combined rating of up to 52 MPG when operating in hybrid mode—an impressive stat for a plug‑in hybrid. Key engineering features include a specialized transaxle drive motor using a six‑magnet and electromagnetic steel plate design for smooth, low-loss operation, along with electronically controlled braking (ECB) that merges regenerative and hydraulic systems for better energy recovery.
Drivers can select from three intelligent modes: EV Mode for pure electric driving; Auto EV/HV Mode for seamless electric-hybrid blending; and Hybrid Mode for gas-electric operation when the battery is depleted. Additional drive styles—NORMAL, ECO, and SPORT—adjust throttle response and performance tuning to match the road or driver’s mood.
As a plug‑in hybrid, recharging the Prius’s battery is easy and convenient. Use the included dual-voltage cable to recharge via a standard 120V household outlet for a full charge in around 11 hours. With a Level 2 charger, the battery tops off in about 4 hours. Even without active charging, the Prius operates as a highly efficient hybrid vehicle. The powertrain ensures smooth transitions and strong performance whether you choose to plug in or not.
The Nightshade Edition builds on the XSE’s rich feature set with blacked-out styling touches inside and out. Highlights include gloss-black exterior accents across the taillight trim, grille surrounds, and window belts. Exclusive Karashi exterior paint joins Wind Chill Pearl and Midnight Black Metallic. Inside, black interior trim and carbon-fiber-look dashboard accents subtly echo the exterior’s tone. All standard infotainment, comfort, and driver-assist features of the XSE remain intact, including wireless charging, heated steering wheel, and ambient lighting.
For those looking to go all-in, the XSE Premium trim adds a JBL® Premium Audio system with 8 speakers and Clari-Fi® optimization, a crisp 12.3-inch touchscreen, a fixed glass roof, and luxurious heated and ventilated SofTex® front seats with driver memory. Also included are a power tailgate, Panoramic View Monitor, Digital Rearview Mirror, heated rear seats, and Advanced Park. An optional 185W solar roof (limited availability) can supplement battery power when parked, with live charge tracking via the infotainment system.
Every Prius Plug‑in Hybrid includes an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen (12.3-inch on Premium). Features across all trims include dual Bluetooth® connections, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, over-the-air updates, and a voice-activated “Hey Toyota” assistant for navigation, audio, temperature control, and more. Cloud Navigation, real-time traffic, Destination Assist, and an integrated Wi‑Fi hotspot enhance daily convenience. HD Radio®, USB data, and SiriusXM® trials are standard, with JBL® sound on the Premium. Android Auto support is now fully wireless, giving drivers easy access to navigation, messaging, podcasts, and music from Android phones without needing a USB connection—seamlessly integrated into the Prius’s infotainment suite.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard across the lineup, providing a comprehensive driver-assistance suite. Key systems include Pre‑Collision with Pedestrian Detection, Full‑Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams. New Proactive Driving Assist helps support braking and steering around curves and slower traffic, enhancing safety even in less demanding driving conditions.
All models are expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships summer 2026. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (excluding $1,195 dealer fee) are: SE – $33,775; XSE – $37,025; XSE Premium – $40,470; Nightshade – $37,795. Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare coverage are included with every vehicle.
The bold black-on-black accents of the Nightshade Edition inject new life into the Prius design language, elevating its status among plug-in hybrids. Beyond aesthetics, this edition—and the full lineup—offers advanced technology, high efficiency, and class-leading safety. With EV-like range for city drives and Toyota’s hallmark hybrid performance for the open road, the 2026 Prius Plug‑in Hybrid is more than just smart—it’s sophisticated, connected, and confidently styled.