What is that sexy, sporty car over there in the parking lot?
Yes, this sleek, wind-swept ride is indeed a Toyota Prius, previously known for its frump.
This one is even harder to miss in a wild, metallic mustard yellow. I’m not exaggerating the mustard part: This color is called Karashi, which is a spicy Japanese version of the condiment. It’s a color exclusive to this trim level, called the Nightshade Edition, which is new for 2026 for plug-in models.
This Nightshade trim level features black exterior accents and black wheels, though the mostly black interior here fails to match the flash of the exterior.
This car, in full, is the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Nightshade Edition.
The plug-in hybrid part means it gets an estimated 40 miles of all-electric driving range. In addition to electric power, it also features a four-cylinder gasoline engine. Toyota says the combo is good for a combined rating of up to 52 miles per gallon. It’s also plenty peppy now, though it does whine and groan under acceleration. All-wheel drive is available, on non-plug-in models.
Now let’s talk more about that radical styling: The dramatically angled front and rear glass is visually striking, but it comes at the cost of compromised outward visibility. I also found the Prius a bit on the low side for entering and exiting.
What does it say about me that I still prefer it over a slow and boring-looking car?
A Prius Plug-in Hybrid Nightshade Edition starts at $38,990, after shipping.
A base Prius starts at $29,745, after shipping.
