The Toyota Prius is a reliable vehicle, yes. It offers a spacious load hold and outperforms practically all other hybrid vehicles in terms of fuel efficiency. A long number of features and plenty of comfy seating are also present. Its poor driving qualities, though, include slow steering response and subpar acceleration.
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Which Prius year should you avoid buying?
Similar light and engine issues affect several Toyota Prius cars from the same year. The models from the years 2007, 2008, and 2010 are the least dependable; each has had several reports of headlights failing or blowing out and excessive oil usage. You must at all costs stay away from these.
The Toyota Prius models from the years 2005, 2006, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2016 aren’t much better either. Similar issues exist with these models, but they either aren’t as serious or haven’t affected as many of them since the model was produced. In either case, we advise staying away from these Toyota Prius year models.
Savings vs. new: $8,079
It’s a wise decision to purchase a certified pre-owned 2019 Toyota Prius, which, on average, will cost $8,079 less than a brand-new 2021 Toyota Prius. That amounts to a 27% savings. You may purchase a car with many of the same features and the same design for three-quarters of the cost of a brand-new Prius while still enjoying all the advantages of Toyota’s CPO program.
Savings vs. new: $9,538
If you want even more of a discount, the typical 2019 Prius used outside of Toyota’s CPO program costs $20,819. Savings of $9,538 compared to new model and $1,448 compared to 2019 Toyota Prius CPO. You must determine whether the savings outweigh the advantages of purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle.
About the Prius
Toyota’s Prius, which was half electric and half gas-powered, transformed the green sector when it was released in 2000. Since then, practically all auto manufacturers have released a gas-saving vehicle to compete in the green market. Given that their tanks only hold fuel for approximately to 50 mpg, these cars are relatively affordable to buy (beginning at $24,000). These vehicles have 121 horsepower and an 11.3-gallon tank. Most buyers of hybrid vehicles are often middle-class to rich, youthful to middle-aged men. Particularly in bigger American cities, Prius continues to have strong sales. However, after Prius vehicles began to circulate, its drivers have come under heavy criticism for how they handled their vehicles.
Cultural Digs
Prius drivers have long been the target of jokes in popular culture, from Urban Dictionary to the South Park episode “Smug Alert.” Prius drivers are described in numerous online personal stories and articles as being excessively slow, excessively rapid, and constantly disregarding stop signs and traffic signals. They’ve also received criticism for acting like a hypocrite by driving an eco-friendly vehicle and lowering their carbon footprint. This is especially true in South Park, where a scene portrayed Prius owners as arrogant knaves who delighted in drawing attention to their green vehicles. Additionally, the animosity has gotten so bad that some irate commuters have taken to criticizing Prius owners’ dangerous driving in online letters.
Eco-Friendly Drivers
Some of these stereotypes might have some grain of truth to them. At least in California, a recent study by the Institute of Personality and Social Research at the University of California Berkeley found a link between affluence and poor driving. In order to determine whether drivers would stop for pedestrians, their study involved watching them at a crosswalk. Approximately 8 out of 10 drivers obeyed the law and let the pedestrians pass. However, researchers found that people who drove expensive or environmentally friendly vehicles were far less likely to stop. Given that Priuses are considered eco-friendly vehicles, the responsibility may statistically rest with these drivers. These vehicles are frequently a prestige symbol for people who care about the environment. Even though this particular group of people may assert that they are “helping the environment,” such drivers are nevertheless regarded as being among the worst types of drivers out there.
Prius Owners and the Quest for Great MPG
But why do Prius drivers behave in such a manner? Another factor contributing to a Prius driver’s propensity for slow driving and aggressive braking is the desire to achieve the highest MPG. Priuses have two engines: an electric motor and a gasoline motor. Getting these engines to cooperate in order to power the car is the overarching goal. Despite the gas waste, the reason they brake so frequently is that consumers enjoy seeing the battery fully charged. Greater fuel efficiency is made possible through coasting and braking, which reduce the amount of time the gas engine is used. Due to this movement, Prius drivers often begin their acceleration from a stop sign or traffic light by coasting slowly. Even those who never touch the brake attempt to stop naturally. Additionally, Prius drivers prefer not to start their gas engines when they accelerate from a stop. Slowing down ensures that the car’s electrical system is still functioning, which enrages many of the drivers in front of them. The ideal speed for using the electricity is about 55 mph on freeways. Prius owners want to avoid using petrol, so anything faster starts using it. They’ll probably be plodding along in the slow lane as everyone else passes them at a high speed. Other drivers may be irritated by you in large part because of your antics.
The Rage Over Carpool
Following the introduction of Prius vehicles, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger enacted some intriguing legislation to promote the use of hybrid vehicles. Even though there was only one person in the car, some models of Toyotas and Hondas with the greatest gas-saving ratings were permitted to use the carpool lane. Many drivers found it infuriating to witness a single individual in a Prius speed past while the others were snarled in gridlock. Regular non-hybrid car drivers who use the carpool lane without any passengers risk being stopped and fined up to $270. Given this logic, it becomes sense that Prius drivers have attracted some negative sentiment.
Prius Accident and Death Stats
Most fatalities from auto accidents, according to researchers, involve compact, light-weight vehicles. Even though the Prius is a tiny four-door vehicle, small-car collisions cause about 31 fatalities each year. Despite the fact that Prius drivers have a reputation for being slow and incompetent, accident records demonstrate that this has no statistically significant impact on accident rates. Several Prius cars were recalled in 2016 because the parking brake may have been faulty. Even though Prius drivers were concerned, this didn’t have a significant impact on accident rates. However, the Prius juggernaut doesn’t appear to be slowed down by this.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that Prius accidents and accompanying fatalities are very low when compared to other compact cars, Prius drivers haven’t changed their driving behaviors. Furthermore, it makes sense that many other people could find these Prius drivers to be more despised given the exclusive privilege of driving alone in the carpool lane. Additionally, there seems to be a lot of truth in the Prius stigma regarding modest speeds. It makes sense that Prius owners who do this want to achieve worse gas mileage; after all, why even buy a hybrid car if you’re not going to use its best feature? Given this justification, it appears that Prius drivers will continue to face criticism until Toyota finds a means to make the switch between gas and electric engines more appropriate for Prius operating speeds.
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What drawbacks does a Prius have?
The basic pricing of the 2020 Toyota Prius, a plug-in hybrid, is relatively reasonable. Toyota is a business renowned for the excellence and dependability of its automobiles. The Prius is undoubtedly one of the best-selling electric vehicles on the market today thanks to its reputation. Choosing the best electric or hybrid vehicle for you can be challenging because more models are released every year. Here are the top ten justifications for choosing a Prius.
The Prius was a four-door sedan when it originally left the factory in the late 1990s. The vehicle was available as a five-door liftback beginning in 2003. This resembles a hybrid between a hatchback and a regular sedan. Since then, Toyota has only used this body type for the Prius.
The exterior of the Prius underwent significant revision for 2019. On all variants, it further provided all-wheel drive. These most recent alterations apply to models made in 2020. Every model level now includes Toyota’s Safety Connect technology. This year, the infotainment system includes support for Alexa and Apple CarPlay. Also normal for 2020 will be larger, 7-inch touchscreens.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Toyota PriusThe Pros
1. It is beneficial to the environment
The fact that hybrid cars are ecologically beneficial is arguably the best justification for owning one. Carbon dioxide emissions from your Toyota Prius will be much reduced. Additionally, you will purchase a lot less gasoline. In the long run, this might assist in weaning us off of our reliance on fossil fuels. A Prius is an excellent alternative if you are worried about environmental issues.
2. Fuel Economy
One of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road is the 2020 Toyota Prius. When you drive a Prius, you can save a lot of money on gas. You should achieve a combined fuel-economy rating of about 56 miles per gallon with a full charge and a full tank. That translates to 53 miles per gallon in the city and 58 miles per gallon on the highway. The Prius can travel nearly 600 miles on a full tank of gas and 25 miles on electric power alone.
3. Reputation
Toyotas continue to establish themselves as the most dependable vehicles on the road. There are typically more vintage Toyotas still on the road than equivalent models from other manufacturers. Every Toyota has a high resale value as a result of its dependability. The 2019 models were essentially the same, despite the fact that there are no concrete figures for a brand-new model like the 2020 Prius. Those Prius models have a great track record of being trouble-free.
4. Good Control
The steering dynamics of the 2020 Toyota Prius are pleasantly surprising. The Prius handles better than it has ever before. Performance of these hybrids was never a selling point. Expecting physical prowess and track-ready quickness is not appropriate. But compared to earlier models of this automobile, Toyota has greatly increased steering precision and feedback. Even tight turns can be maneuvered with ease and hardly any body roll.
Five. Wide Range of Standard Features
For its price range, the Prius has a ton of great standard amenities. You get heated outside mirrors that defrost rapidly in cold weather. LED fog lamps, taillights, and headlights are also included. Even the entry model’s front seats are heated out of the box. These are only a few of the many standard features that are provided here.
6. It’s a Secure Car
A secure vehicle for you and your loved ones is the 2020 Toyota Prius. Toyota’s Advanced Airbag System is available up front. Airbags for the standard, side, cushion, and knees are included. There are front and rear curtain shield airbags for the back seats. Your car is better protected from theft with an engine immobilizer.
All Toyota vehicles come standard with the Safety Connect system. In the event of an accident or breakdown, this connects you with emergency services. Several driver-assistance features are offered by Toyota Safety Sense, including Pre-Collision Detection and Lane-Departure Alert. A tire pressure monitoring system and child safety seat anchoring tethers are also included.
7. The Convenient Cabin
Both the front and back passengers have plenty of head and legroom inside the Prius. Nice and supportive seats are provided. At every trim level, the fabric is excellent. Even the front seats are heated as a standard feature. Due to the modest powertrains used in this hybrid, the ride is comparatively quiet and smooth.
The Technology 8.
The Toyota Prius 2020 is loaded with contemporary technologies. A sizable touchscreen and an impressive audio system are included with the infotainment system. The addition of Apple CarPlay this year has made connectivity greater than ever. There is also an integrated navigation system. You can choose a high-end system from JBL for the finest musical experience.
9. Flexibility of the cargo space
The Prius has a sizable amount of cargo space. If the back seats are arranged correctly, it can extend to 62.7 cubic feet. The 60-40 split function on the Prius rear seats gives you flexibility while transporting your belongings.
10. All-Wheel-Drive is an option
One of the few hybrids on the market with all-wheel drive is the 2020 Toyota Prius. The best part is that all-wheel drive is an option for every trim level. The Prius might be the finest hybrid vehicle for you if you reside in a region that has frequent snowfall or rain. It is a safer car to drive in bad weather because to the increased traction.
buying advice
Compare prices online before buying a new car to avoid paying too much. Find out the price in advance before entering a dealership. The following free services are suggested by us: Car Clearance Deals, NADAguides, CarsDirect, and Motortrend.
These free sites will provide you the best deals and provide you with numerous price quotations from rival businesses. Before visiting the dealer, you will be aware of the best pricing.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Toyota PriusThe Cons
Initial Engine Performance Issues
Sporty cars have never been associated with the Toyota Prius. With regard to power and acceleration, its overall performance is not particularly impressive. The 2020 versions do, however, have good steering and handling, so the driving experience isn’t at all unpleasant. But the Prius’ biggest selling point has always been its effectiveness. This won’t please you if you’re hoping for speed. The Prius is unbeatable if you desire affordable gas fill-ups and environmental friendliness.
2. More affordable options are now available
The cheapest hybrid on the market is no longer the 2020 Toyota Prius. In this class, there are currently a number of rivals who provide cheaper starting costs. The Prius has the advantage of maintaining its resale value better than most other vehicles in its class. Generally speaking, this applies to any Toyota vehicle. The Prius may still represent the best bargain when reliability of the Toyota brand is also taken into account.
3. Standard Interior Supplies
A great entertainment system is offered together with sturdy, supportive seating in the Toyota Prius. Even more common convenience features are included. Sadly, there are a lot of plastics in the inside elements. As a result, the inside has a little cheap appearance and feel. It shouts “cheap, basic transportation!” The Prius will be just that for a lot of drivers, which is the unfortunate fact. It is affordable. It is affordable. It is made for simple transportation and won’t set you back much at the gas pumps. If you require opulent furnishings and ornate decorations, search elsewhere.
4. A Lame External
By any standards, the 2020 Toyota Prius isn’t a bad-looking car. Additionally, it’s hardly the most thrilling car out there. The outside is fairly uninteresting. Unless you happen to drive by folks who are ecologically sensitive and who would applaud your good choice of a vehicle, you probably won’t attract much attention while you drive. The Prius was created by Toyota with practicality in mind, but that isn’t always a negative thing.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition:
Vehicles of the same size, price range, and class are typically compared when comparing vehicles that directly compete with cars. Your greatest options when purchasing an electric or hybrid vehicle might not necessarily fit neatly into categories like “sedan” or “crossover SUV.” The effective electric motor is the key selling feature here. The Honda Insight, Nissan Leaf, and Kia Niro are the major rivals for the Prius.
There are many advantages to the Honda Insight. Compared to the Prius, it offers a somewhat superior driving experience. The ride is smoother in general. However, the Prius actually triumphs in terms of handling and steering. The Prius has all-wheel drive and is quieter. The Prius may be a better option if you frequently need to drive in bad weather.
The Prius remains the sole vehicle with an all-wheel drive option when compared against Nissan’s Leaf. It’s one of the features that really distinguishes the Prius from its rivals. The Leaf’s all-electric design is what makes it so intriguing. This is your greatest option if your goal is to completely stop using gasoline. You only have a 151-mile driving range, which is a drawback. You can travel well over 600 miles in the Prius before you need to refuel and recharge.
A hybrid hatchback with a striking appearance is the Kia Niro. Comparatively speaking, it costs around the same as a Toyota Prius. The Prius features all-wheel drive as well as significantly higher fuel efficiency. Here, Toyota offers you a lot more standard equipment and has a better reliability track record.
Conclusion:
Anyone looking to purchase a hybrid vehicle should strongly consider the 2020 Toyota Prius. The Prius has been manufactured by Toyota for more than 20 years. They understand the technology behind creating hybrid engines more thoroughly than almost any other company. Toyota automobiles are among the most durable and dependable on the market. The Prius is loaded with driver assistance and safety measures. This automobile is a sure thing and a wise investment all around.