Of course, there are incentives to splurge on higher-end models. The $28,800 Premium trim comes with the Prime's signature 11.6-inch touchscreen (you get "just" a 7-inch screen on the base Plus), Qi-based wireless charging for compatible phones, remote illuminated entry and upgraded seats. Go all-out with the $33,100 Advanced and you get perks like a heads-up display, remote control mobile apps, a heated steering wheel, blind spot warnings and rear cross traffic alerts. All Prius Prime models come with a handful of smart safety features like pre-collision, lane departure and fatigue warnings.

Our Autoblog colleagues have already driven the Prius Prime, and they generally like what they see. The Prime is much improved over the earlier Prius plug-in hybrid, with more range (both electric and on gas), safety upgrades and all that added in-cabin tech. With that said, it's not perfect: the gas motor is "whiny" when it kicks in, and the touchscreen isn't as responsive as on the far more expensive Tesla Model S. And while it's likely the best-looking Prius to date, that's not saying a whole lot -- "dowdy" is an apt description. Still, this might be your ideal commuter car if the Chevy Volt's longer all-electric range isn't worth the price premium to you.