Jump to content
Create New...
  • William Maley
    William Maley

    Quick Drive: 2020 Toyota Prius XLE AWD-e and Corolla Hatchback XSE

      Can small changes make big changes?

    Have you ever wondered what it would be to add all-wheel drive to a Prius? What about adding slightly more sport to a Corolla hatchback? Wonder no more as I can tell you some thoughts on the 2020 Toyota Prius AWD-e and Corolla XSE hatchback.

    Prius XLE AWD-e

    • The Prius AWD-e powertrain is mostly the same as you'll find in the standard model - a 1.8L inline-four paired with an electric motor to provide an output of 121 horsepower. But, the e-AWD adds a second electric motor producing 7 horsepower and 40 pound-feet onto the rear axle. This provides extra traction and helps with initial acceleration (up to 6 mph).
    • The other change deals with the battery as Toyota swaps the lithium-ion pack for a nickel-metal hydride. Toyota says the nickel-metal hydride chemistry has better resilience in extremely cold temperatures.
    • Does the addition of a second electric motor make the Prius any faster? Not at all. It feels the same as the standard Prius; fine in stop-go driving, but struggling during hard acceleration such as merging onto a freeway.
    • The AWD system is very unobtrusive, you don’t notice come on when one of the front wheels loses traction. There is an important caveat to note; this system only operates up to 43 mph. This is likely due to Toyota wanting to keep somewhat high fuel economy figures.
    • As for fuel economy, the EPA rates the Prius AWD-e at 52 City/48 Highway/50 Combined - the lowest of any Prius model. My average for the week was a slightly disappointing 47 mpg.
    • Handling characteristics are the same as the standard Prius. It's slightly fun to drive on winding roads with minimal body roll, but the steering is lackluster. Ride comfort is excellent with most bumps being ironed out.
    • The AWD option does make the Prius a more appealing option for those living in the snow belt who still want excellent fuel economy.

    Corolla XSE Hatchback

    2020 Toyota Corolla XSE.jpg

    • Toyota wants to make it clear the XSE is the sporting version of the Corolla Hatchback and it shows on the exterior. There is a distinct rear wing, 18-inch wheels with black inserts, and a body kit that makes the hatchback stand out from the plain-jane SE.
    • Power comes from the same 2.0L inline-four found in the SE, producing 169 horsepower. In my tester, I had the standard six-speed manual. The CVT is an option.
    • I was hoping for a slight improvement in overall performance with the manual, but it’s similar to the CVT. The engine feels more suited around town where it can get up to speed pretty quick. But it does show some signs of struggling when trying to reach higher speeds.
    • The manual transmission is a mixed bag. The throws are a bit too long for any sort of enthusiastic driving and it is slightly difficult to slot into the next gear due to the vague feeling gate. But, the clutch is very easy to modulate.
    • Despite having a sportier tune for the suspension, I couldn't tell any difference in the handling between this and the SE hatchback I drove in 2020. Both feel agile and composed when driven on a curvy stretch of pavement. I will say the SE does a better job of minimizing impacts from bumps and potholes with smaller wheels.
    • The only reasons I see picking the XSE over the SE is for the more aggressive looks and additional standard equipment (dual-zone climate control, 7-inch screen in the instrument cluster, and power-adjustable driver seat). Otherwise, the SE offers the same driving dynamics, manual transmission, and a slightly better ride for less money.

    Disclaimer: Toyota Provided the vehicles, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas

    Year: 2020
    Make: Toyota
    Model: Prius AWD-e
    Trim: XLE
    Engine: 1.8L DOHC 16-Valve VVT-i Four-Cylinder, AC Synchronous Motor
    Driveline: ECVT, All Wheel Drive
    Horsepower @ RPM: 96 @ 5,200 (Gas): 71 @ 0 (Electric Motor 1): 7 @ 0 (Electric Motor 2): 121 (Combined)
    Torque @ RPM: 105 @ 3,600 (Gas): 
    Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 52/48/50
    Curb Weight: 3,220 lbs
    Location of Manufacture: 
    Base Price: $28,375
    As Tested Price: $31,757 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge)

    Options:
    Advanced Technology Package - $800.00

    Year: 2020
    Make: Toyota
    Model: Corolla Hatchback
    Trim: XSE
    Engine: 2.0 DOHC 15-Valve D-4S with Dual VVT-i Four-Cylinder
    Driveline: Six-Speed Manual, Front-Wheel Drive
    Horsepower @ RPM: 168 @ 6,600
    Torque @ RPM: 151 @ 4,800
    Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 28/37/31
    Curb Weight: 3,060 lbs
    Location of Manufacture: Aichi, Japan
    Base Price: $23,240
    As Tested Price: $26,450 (Includes $955.00 Destination Charge)

    Options:
    Black Roof, Spoiler, and Side Mirrors - $500.00
    Adaptive Headlights - $415.00
    Rear Window Spoiler - $375.00
    Carpet Mat Package - $249.00
    Door Sill Protectors - $165.00
    Black Emblem Overlays - $129.00
    Mudguards - $129.00
    Door Edge Guard - $125.00
    Rear Bumper Protector - $89.00
    TRD Air Filter - $79.00


    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments



    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
    Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

    Guest
    Add a comment...

    ×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

      Only 75 emoji are allowed.

    ×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

    ×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

    ×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


  • google-news-icon.png



  • google-news-icon.png

  • Subscribe to Cheers & Gears

    Cheers and Gears Logo

    Since 2001 we've brought you real content and honest opinions, not AI-generated stuff with no feeling or opinions influenced by the manufacturers.

    Please consider subscribing. Subscriptions can be as little as $1.75 a month, and a paid subscription drops most ads.*
     

    You can view subscription options here.

    *a very limited number of ads contain special coupon deals for our members and will show

  • Similar Content

  • Posts

    • Thank you for allowing me to express my sadness and anger towards DJT.   Its not easy listening to Trump's hurtfull speeches towards Canada. Hence these posts.     Agreed. But...that does not mean because some women and visible minorites voted for him that Trump needs to take away their rights...  DEI is such a bad thing that the Tuskagee Airmen actually were never a force to be reckoned with in the US airforce back in Double U Double U Two.   (sarcasm)  Regarding women, yeah, I suppose DEI is a bad thing as women belong in the kitchen and bedroom.  Its my duty as a human being  to defend anything and everything shytty that comes out of Trump's shytty mouth.  And it dont matter if uneducated and brainwashed idiots voted for Trump, it is still my duty to defend these people from the tyranny of this man named Trump.  I understand.  I will comply with the language thing.  No need for vulgarity. I agree. 
    • Got it, like many, myself included you do not like trump. Sadly, many women and minorities voted allowing him to get back into office. The big LIE is on with him daily since taking office lying to the public, we have 4 years of the idiot47, but please let's temper the language as ya never know when some young person will visit our site. Thank you for your support. At my PT on Friday, I cracked up laughing talking to a retired marine who was wearing this shirt.
    • Initially Kia introduced the PV5 versatile electric van as the Kia PBV or "Platform Beyond Vehicle", a module electric platform that could serve as a people moving van in various configurations, a cargo van for last mile deliveries or a modular truck. Kia also has stated that the Modular PBV could be used as a driverless transportation vehicle for various types of people hauling service from Taxi like rides around a city, airport shuttles, special needs shuttle service, or company campus service just to name a few. With such a modular system, Kia has moved forward with a Global PV5 Van that is the start of a complete PV family of electric vans for the global auto market. The PV7 will be their full-size van with greater interior space, longer driving range and enhanced functionalities for use case needs. The PV1 will be the smallest, optimized for agile, short-distance driving, transportation logistics, allowing for optimized use in the inner city. The PV family of vans will start with the PV5 scheduled to be released mid 2025. It will come in three versions initially, Basic or passenger van, Cargo / Specialty van and Chassis cab. Weight has always been a concern for some in regard to how heavy some EVs, especially in the Luxury segment of full-size SUVs have become with approaching 10,000 lbs. The PVB / PV5 platform is reducing weight and parts by using what they call "Dynamic Hybrid" modular body structure. This platform is a weldless body structure enabling the length of moveable members to be flexibly adjusted according to the vehicle use purpose. Comprised of high-strength tubular steel and engineered polymers, typical parts are reduced by 55 percent with no loss in rigidity.  Kia has stated that the PVB modularity will be a huge success for their launch of the PV5. An integrated rail system on the vehicle's ceiling, floor, and side panels, as well as on the exterior, enables effortless customization of the vehicle to meet individual customer needs. This system enables seamless transfer of goods and items between vehicles, using cabinets and frames. The 'rails' within this ecosystem simplify the movement of items between vehicles, while the modular design of the 'tiles' and functional accessories, such as speakers and shelves, offer limitless flexibility for a wide range of scenarios. The PV5 will come in the following dimensions: Width - 1,900mm or 75 inches Length - 4,645mm or 183 inches Height - 1,900mm or 75 inches Wheelbase - 2,995 or 118 inches Some of the exceptions are in the high roof format, 2,200mm or 87 inches tall. This would be as an example the PV5 High Roof Cargo van. Sizing of the other two models are as follows: PV7 Length 5,270mm or 207.5 inches Width 2,065mm or 81 inches Height 2,120mm or 83.5 inches Wheelbase 3,390mm or 133.5 inches PV1 Length 3,210mm or 126 inches Width 1,675mm or 66 inches Height 1,715mm or 67.5 inches Wheelbase 2,210mm or 87 inches The Kia PVB platform is built on an 800V architecture that is very versatile in incorporating options like Ride-hailing service to Wheelchair accessibility, Cargo Delivery, Pop-up store use and with V2L or Vehicle to Load capabilities, the PV family makes just about any trip an easy day. Kia has proven that they are ready to deliver 80% battery charge in less than 20 minutes. Kia currently has test mules running around Europe where it will launch first before expanding across the globe. PBV test mules The PV1 will be using in-wheel motors allowing ease of movement especially in older cities where roads are narrow. Kia is pushing the bounderies as they showed off at the 2024 SEMA show their PV5 WKNDR Concept van that has been very well received by both end users and outfitters that can see using the Chassis system to build custom activity vehicles. Style is a very subjective personal preference, yet with an 800V powertrain system, fast charging, versatile configuration and V2L, the PVB platform will be setting standards for many market segments. You can view more on the PBV system here: Kia Worldwide At a time where you have some folks pulling back into a 1960's thinking and others pushing into a 2260's future mind set, Kia is one to watch as they push the boundaries of how you look at the future of automobiles, personal workspace and changing one thinking. If vans are not your thing, then check out the EV3 that is setting EV sales records in Europe last year, is coming to the U.S. end of 2025 early 2026 as an entry level EV. Even if your not interested in electric vehicles, Kia I feel nails it with their EVs commercial above. View full article
    • https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2025/01/25/air-force-pulls-class-with-tuskegee-airmen-video-after-dei-order/   https://www.military.com/daily-news/2025/01/24/military-effort-scrub-diversity-programs-leads-dead-websites-and-confusion.html   https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tuskegee-airmen-wasps-lesson-removed-us-air-force-curriculum-memo-dei-order/          
    • Just a friendly reminder...  
  • Who's Online (See full list)

    • There are no registered users currently online
  • My Clubs

×
×
  • Create New...

Hey there, we noticed you're using an ad-blocker. We're a small site that is supported by ads or subscriptions. We rely on these to pay for server costs and vehicle reviews.  Please consider whitelisting us in your ad-blocker, or if you really like what you see, you can pick up one of our subscriptions for just $1.75 a month or $15 a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way to help support real, honest content, that isn't generated by an AI bot.

See you out there.

Drew
Editor-in-Chief

Write what you are looking for and press enter or click the search icon to begin your search