For some owners, a plug-in hybrid is the best of all worlds. There's electric range to cover the commutes, switch to gasoline for easy long road trips. The 3rd generation Prius Prime (based on the 5th gen Prius Hybrid) is a significant upgrade. At up to 44 miles of EV driving, it has significantly more gas-free range, it's noticeably quicker and is a swan to the outgoing ugly duckling. Tom Voelk travels to a Toyota event in Carlsbad, California to check out a well-equipped XSE Premium in Guardian Gray that should MSRP for around $43,000 when the Prime becomes available in May. And he's joined by John Voelcker with Green Car Reports and a contributing editor to Car and Driver.

Tom attended a Toyota event to preview the Prius Prime. His opinions remain his own.

Prius Prime is not eligible for federal tax credits. Check with your state.