Right now there are government clean air rebates of about $4,500 available on the prius prime. The msrp of the Prius Prime is about $23,500 and the Prime $27,000.
$27,000 - $23,500 = $3,500 difference. So even including the extra tax paid on the higher price after rebate they cost the same. If you live in California or another state that also includes rebates you can actually get the car for less money and get the carpool lane sticker and half priced bridge tolls.
The only drawback is that you lose trunk space due to the battery. So if you need to haul a lot that would be one reason to get the regular prius.
The prius is a great car with the latest technology included as standard equipment. The base model includes dynamic cruise control, front collision warning / braking, lane assist, navigation, and HID headlights.
Plus driving on Electricity is so much fun. Its instant power and response, feels like no delay between pushing the pedal and feeling it move. Since it has an electric motor there are no power band issues where you have to shift gears for response. No matter what speed you are travelling you can punch it up if needed. The regenerate braking is fantastic as well since it not only provides charging to the battery, but saves the brakes and money in the long run.