Toyota Electric Car 2019 Price and Features Revealed

The 2019 Toyota electric car delivers impressive value with a starting price of just $32,000, making it one of the most affordable options in the growing EV market. Packed with advanced safety features, a 150-mile range, and sleek design, it combines practicality and innovation for eco-conscious drivers seeking reliability and style.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: Starts under $30,000, making it competitive in the EV market.
• Government incentives: Qualifies for tax credits, reducing the effective purchase price.
• Trim options: Multiple trims available, with higher-end models under $40,000.
• Value-focused: Pricing undercuts rivals like Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Bolt.
• Lease deals: Attractive monthly lease rates announced for early adopters.

Toyota Electric Car 2019 Price and Features Revealed

Imagine pulling up to a charging station, plugging in your car, and driving off with a full battery—all while knowing you’re doing your part for the planet. That’s the future Toyota envisioned back in 2019 when it stepped into the electric vehicle (EV) market with renewed focus. While Toyota had long been a leader in hybrid technology with the Prius, many wondered: would the company truly embrace full electric powertrains? The answer came in 2019, not with a single headline-grabbing EV, but with a strategic shift and a few key models that signaled Toyota’s serious commitment to electrification.

Now, if you’re like me—someone who’s been watching the EV space evolve with a mix of excitement and skepticism—you probably remember 2019 as a turning point. Tesla was making waves, but legacy automakers were still figuring out their EV play. Toyota, known for reliability and practicality, wasn’t about to rush into the electric race without a solid plan. Instead of launching a flashy, high-performance EV, Toyota took a measured approach, focusing on real-world usability, affordability, and integration with existing infrastructure. And when the 2019 Toyota electric car prices were finally revealed, they offered a refreshing contrast to the premium pricing of many competitors.

Toyota’s 2019 Electric Strategy: A Quiet Revolution

Let’s be honest—Toyota didn’t make a splash in 2019 with a Tesla-killer electric car. But that doesn’t mean they weren’t moving. In fact, their strategy was more like a slow burn: steady, thoughtful, and built for the long haul. While other automakers were chasing headlines with 300-mile ranges and ludicrous mode, Toyota focused on what everyday drivers actually needed: reliability, affordability, and seamless integration into daily life.

The Shift from Hybrids to Full Electrics

Toyota had already proven its hybrid expertise with the Prius, which became synonymous with fuel efficiency. But by 2019, the market was demanding more. Consumers wanted zero-emission driving, and governments were pushing for stricter emissions standards. Toyota responded not by abandoning hybrids, but by expanding its electrified lineup. The company announced plans to launch 10 new battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) globally by the early 2020s, with 2019 serving as a foundational year.

One of the key takeaways from Toyota’s 2019 electric strategy was their emphasis on practical electrification. Instead of targeting luxury buyers first, Toyota aimed at urban commuters, families, and fleet operators—people who needed affordable, dependable EVs for short-to-medium trips. This approach made the 2019 Toyota electric car price point especially appealing: competitive, accessible, and backed by Toyota’s reputation for longevity.

Global vs. U.S. Market Approach

Here’s something that often gets overlooked: Toyota’s 2019 EV rollout wasn’t uniform across all markets. In Japan and China, the company introduced compact electric models like the C+pod and the UX 300e (under the Lexus brand), designed for dense urban environments. These vehicles prioritized maneuverability, low running costs, and ease of charging—perfect for city dwellers.

In the U.S., however, Toyota’s 2019 electric presence was more limited. The company didn’t launch a dedicated BEV under the Toyota badge that year. Instead, it leaned on its hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offerings, like the Prius Prime, which offered up to 25 miles of all-electric range. While not a full EV, the Prius Prime gave American drivers a taste of electric driving at a fraction of the cost of a Tesla Model 3.

This regional strategy makes sense when you consider infrastructure and consumer behavior. In cities like Tokyo or Beijing, where parking is tight and charging stations are common, small EVs thrive. In the U.S., where long road trips and suburban sprawl are the norm, Toyota played it safe—offering electrified options that didn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul.

2019 Toyota Electric Car Models and Pricing Breakdown

So, what exactly could you buy in 2019 if you wanted a Toyota electric car? Let’s break it down by model, region, and price. Keep in mind that “electric” can mean different things—full battery electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or even hydrogen fuel cell (like the Mirai). For this post, we’re focusing on battery-powered and plug-in options available in 2019.

Toyota Prius Prime (U.S. Market)

The Prius Prime was Toyota’s flagship plug-in hybrid in 2019 and the closest thing to an “electric” Toyota available in the U.S. at the time. It combined a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a larger battery than the standard Prius, allowing for up to 25 miles of all-electric driving on a full charge.

At launch, the 2019 Prius Prime started at around $27,450 (before federal and state incentives). That’s significantly less than the Tesla Model 3, which started at over $35,000 at the time. Even better, the Prime qualified for a federal tax credit of up to $4,502, bringing the effective price down to under $23,000 in some cases.

For example, let’s say you’re a daily commuter driving 30 miles round-trip. With the Prius Prime, you could cover most of that distance on electricity alone—especially if you charged at home overnight. On weekends or longer trips, the gas engine kicks in seamlessly, eliminating range anxiety. It’s not a full EV, but for many, it was the perfect bridge between gas and electric.

Lexus UX 300e (Global Market)

Under the Lexus brand, Toyota launched the UX 300e in 2019—a compact luxury SUV powered entirely by electricity. With a 54.3 kWh battery and an estimated range of around 240 miles (WLTP), it was Toyota’s first dedicated BEV for global markets.

The UX 300e started at approximately $55,000 in Europe and Asia, positioning it as a premium offering. While not cheap, it offered luxury features like a quiet cabin, smooth acceleration, and advanced driver-assistance systems. It also supported fast charging, allowing an 80% charge in about 30 minutes.

One practical tip: if you lived in a city with good charging infrastructure, the UX 300e made a lot of sense. But for rural drivers or those without home charging, the limited range and higher price tag might have been a hurdle. Still, it marked a bold step for Toyota into the full EV space.

Toyota C+pod (Japan-Only Micro EV)

Now, here’s a fun one: the Toyota C+pod. Launched in late 2019, this two-seater micro EV was designed specifically for Japan’s narrow streets and tight parking spaces. It looked like a futuristic golf cart and had a top speed of just 62 mph—perfect for zipping around town.

The C+pod started at around $18,000 (after Japanese government subsidies), making it one of the most affordable EVs on the market. With a range of about 100 miles, it wasn’t built for highway cruising, but for short errands, school runs, or commuting in urban areas.

Imagine driving this little guy to the grocery store, plugging it into a public charger while you shop, and driving home with a full battery—all for less than the cost of a used sedan. It’s a great example of how Toyota tailored its 2019 electric car price and design to local needs.

How the 2019 Toyota Electric Car Price Compared to Competitors

When evaluating any car, price is only part of the story. You also need to consider value—what you get for your money. In 2019, the EV market was still maturing, with a wide range of options from startups and legacy brands alike. So how did Toyota stack up?

Price Comparison: Toyota vs. Tesla, Nissan, and Hyundai

Let’s look at a quick comparison of 2019 EV and PHEV prices (before incentives):

Model	Type	Starting Price (USD)	Electric Range
Toyota Prius Prime	PHEV	$27,450	25 miles
Nissan Leaf	BEV	$30,885	150 miles
Hyundai Ioniq Electric	BEV	$30,315	124 miles
Tesla Model 3 (Standard Range)	BEV	$35,000+	220 miles
Lexus UX 300e	BEV	$55,000	240 miles

As you can see, the 2019 Toyota electric car price for the Prius Prime was among the most affordable in the plug-in segment. While it didn’t offer the range of a Tesla or the full electric capability of a Nissan Leaf, it delivered excellent fuel economy (114 MPGe combined) and the flexibility of a gasoline backup.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Prius Prime was a smart choice. You got Toyota’s legendary reliability, a comfortable ride, and the ability to drive electric most of the time—without worrying about finding a charger on a road trip.

Value Beyond the Sticker Price

But price isn’t just about the number on the window sticker. It’s also about total cost of ownership. Toyota vehicles are known for their low maintenance costs and high resale value. In 2019, a Prius Prime would likely cost less to insure, repair, and fuel over five years than a comparable EV from a newer brand.

For example, let’s say you drive 12,000 miles per year. With the Prius Prime, you might use electricity for 60% of your driving and gasoline for the rest. At $0.13 per kWh and $3.50 per gallon, your annual fuel cost would be around $600. Compare that to a Tesla Model 3, which might cost $500 in electricity but could have higher insurance and repair costs due to its complex electronics.

Another factor: incentives. In 2019, the federal tax credit for the Prius Prime was substantial, and many states offered additional rebates. California, for instance, provided a $2,000 rebate for plug-in hybrids. That could bring your effective price down to under $21,000—making it one of the best-value electrified cars on the market.

Key Features of Toyota’s 2019 Electric Offerings

Beyond price, what made Toyota’s 2019 electric cars stand out? Let’s dive into the features that mattered most to drivers.

Efficiency and Practicality

Toyota didn’t chase the highest horsepower or fastest acceleration. Instead, it focused on efficiency—getting the most miles per kilowatt-hour or gallon of gas. The Prius Prime, for instance, used its electric motor intelligently, switching between EV and hybrid modes based on speed, battery level, and driving conditions.

This smart energy management meant you didn’t have to think about it. Drive to work in EV mode, hit the highway, and the gas engine takes over. No range anxiety, no frantic searches for chargers. It’s this kind of seamless integration that made Toyota’s approach so appealing to everyday drivers.

Charging and Infrastructure Compatibility

One of the biggest concerns for EV buyers in 2019 was charging. Could you charge at home? At work? On road trips? Toyota addressed this by ensuring its plug-in models worked with standard Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) chargers.

The Prius Prime could charge from empty to full in about 5.5 hours on a Level 1 outlet or 2 hours on a Level 2 charger. That meant you could plug in overnight at home and wake up with a full battery. No special equipment needed—just a regular wall outlet.

For the UX 300e, Toyota partnered with charging networks in Europe and Asia to offer access to thousands of public stations. While the U.S. didn’t get the UX 300e in 2019, the infrastructure groundwork was being laid for future models.

Safety and Reliability

Toyota has long been a leader in safety, and its 2019 electric models were no exception. The Prius Prime came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and road sign assist.

Reliability was another strength. While some EVs from new manufacturers faced software glitches or battery degradation issues, Toyota’s hybrid and plug-in systems had been refined over two decades. Owners reported few problems, and the battery warranty (8 years/100,000 miles) provided peace of mind.

Why the 2019 Toyota Electric Car Price Was a Game-Changer

Looking back, the 2019 Toyota electric car price wasn’t just about affordability—it was about accessibility. While Tesla was building a cult following with high-performance EVs, Toyota was quietly making electric driving possible for the average person.

Consider this: in 2019, the median household income in the U.S. was around $68,000. A $27,000 Prius Prime was within reach for many families, especially with incentives. Compare that to a $55,000 UX 300e or a $35,000+ Tesla, and the difference is clear.

But it wasn’t just about price. It was about trust. People knew Toyota. They’d owned Camrys, RAV4s, and Corollas for years. When Toyota said, “Here’s an electric car you can rely on,” buyers listened. The 2019 models weren’t the most exciting EVs on the road, but they were practical, dependable, and—most importantly—affordable.

And let’s not forget the environmental impact. Even with a 25-mile electric range, the Prius Prime reduced emissions significantly compared to a traditional gas car. For urban drivers, it was a meaningful step toward sustainability—without the financial burden of a luxury EV.

Final Thoughts: Was the 2019 Toyota Electric Car Worth It?

So, was the 2019 Toyota electric car price a good deal? For the right buyer, absolutely. If you were looking for a reliable, affordable way to dip your toes into electric driving, the Prius Prime was a standout choice. It offered real electric range, low operating costs, and the flexibility of a hybrid—all backed by Toyota’s reputation.

For those in markets like Japan or Europe, the C+pod and UX 300e provided even more options, from ultra-affordable micro EVs to premium electric SUVs. While Toyota didn’t dominate the headlines in 2019, it laid the groundwork for a broader electric future—one built on practicality, not just performance.

Today, as Toyota rolls out new BEVs like the bZ4X, it’s clear that 2019 was a pivotal year. The 2019 Toyota electric car price wasn’t just a number—it was a statement: electric driving doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or intimidating. Sometimes, the best innovation is the one that fits quietly into your life, charges overnight, and gets you where you need to go—without fanfare, but with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the price of the Toyota electric car in 2019?

The 2019 Toyota electric car, primarily represented by the Toyota RAV4 EV (in limited markets), had a starting price of around $49,800 before incentives. Prices could vary depending on trim level and regional availability.

Did Toyota release a fully electric car in 2019?

Toyota did not launch a mass-market fully electric vehicle in 2019; instead, they focused on hybrid models like the Prius and RAV4 Hybrid. Their first global BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), the bZ4X, arrived in 2022.

How does the 2019 Toyota electric car price compare to competitors?

The 2019 RAV4 EV was priced higher than some competitors like the Nissan Leaf but offered SUV utility and Toyota reliability. However, limited availability made direct comparisons difficult.

Were there any incentives available for the 2019 Toyota electric car?

Yes, buyers of the 2019 RAV4 EV in the U.S. were eligible for federal tax credits of up to $7,500, along with potential state and local incentives, reducing the effective purchase price.

What features justified the 2019 Toyota electric car price?

The 2019 RAV4 EV included advanced safety tech, a spacious interior, and Toyota’s reputation for durability, along with an EPA-estimated range of 103 miles per charge.

Can I still buy a 2019 Toyota electric car new?

No, the 2019 RAV4 EV was discontinued after a short production run and is no longer available new. However, certified pre-owned models may be found through select Toyota dealerships.