The Toyota Prius cannot be modified to perform like a prerunner or other off-road vehicles when it is in stock condition. Lift kits are a logical next step from there. Once installed, the higher ground clearance gives the car a little more freedom to go anywhere. The owner’s level of desire for off-roading is all that remains at that point. For instance, a roof-mounted baggage rack, a sizable hood-mounted fog light pod, decals, etc.
The list price for each lift kit is $299.95. According to the company’s website, the kits offer adequate space to support tires with a diameter of up to two inches higher. But things don’t stop there either. In reality, the Toyota Corolla represents the company’s latest foray into new markets. For the same price, a lift kit is now offered for that platform.
The Toyota Prius is a widely adored and despised automobile. However, the car might perhaps get a few extra admirers if a raise kit is added. Who would have thought that a lift kit could make the Prius the newest hot item for the safari-loving crowd?
In This Article...
CAN YOU GO BIGGER THAN 1.5″?
Might we? Sure. Are we? No. Let me explain why. Contrary to popular perception, you cannot accommodate a larger tire with a larger lift (within reason). The lower spring retainer on the front struts is what restricts how large of a tire you can accommodate. No matter how high a lift you build, the tire will hit the strut once it reaches a certain diameter. Going larger than 1.5 has no advantages “lift in. When we first started working on the Prius lift design, our goal was 2.5 “We immediately discovered that the suspension, steering, and drivetrain parts were all pushed well above factory tolerances as a result of the extra lift. Ball joints, tie rods, CV axles, and other components showed signs of high stress, making them vulnerable to early failure. Additionally, this resulted in a rougher ride, which significantly reduced the Prius’s daily comfort. As a result, we started over and reduced it to 2 “and they remained dissatisfied with the angles and stress exerted on the parts. So we reduced it once more and discovered the sweet spot at 1.5 “. Regarding ride height, ride quality, general safety, and the lifetime of all steering, suspension, and drivetrain components, this usually offers the best value for the money. Although 1.5 might not seem like much, “makes a MASSIVE difference in both on- and off-road driving comfort. Usually, when you think about raised vehicles, you picture trucks and SUVs with a START ground clearance of 8 inches or more. Think…RATIOS. A lift of 1.5″ on a Prius is equivalent to a lift of 3″+ on a contemporary full-size pickup. The objective is to obtain the most usable lift possible without compromising dependability, handling, ride, or safety. keeping it classy and subdued at the same time We experimented with lift heights of 1.5″ to 3″ and 1” “is actually the contented average of all of these things. We won’t give up these values in order to stand a little taller.
HOW BIG OF A TIRE CAN I FIT?
Since the raise is made to operate with your factory tires, there is no need to modify the size or kind of your tires. If you do decide to replace your tires, the MAXIMUM size that will fit after the lift is installed is often 2″ diameter larger than the OEM tire size. It is NOT implied by the MAXIMUM tire size that this is what we RECOMMEND. It’s crucial to pick the correct tire for your needs because bigger isn’t always better. Running the largest tire also has the biggest negative effects on handling, fuel economy, and other factors. It also leaves very little room for accessories like tire chains. A 215/70R15 tire may not have the same overall diameter across brands since each tire manufacturer uses a slightly different measurement standard. To get the MAXIMUM tire size to fit with some makes and models of tire, be sure to check the specific tire make/model for accurate measurements, and be ready for the possibility of slight trimming. Personally, we advise aiming for a size that falls between factory size and the largest size. We like to use tires that are between the OEM size and the largest size. This minimizes the loss in fuel efficiency and power over switching to a larger tire while still leaving room for items like tire chains if you ever need to use them.
WHAT TIRES SHOULD I BUY?
Personally, we advise having the lift put first and sticking with your current tires until they need to be changed due to wear. Only then should you decide whether to switch to a different size or type of tire. Numerous parameters, such as fuel efficiency, on- and off-road performance, road noise, diameter, width, etc., determine the “correct tire.” There is no tire that offers the best fuel efficiency, performs well off-road, and is quiet and pleasant on-road. Set your priorities straight and realize that everything has a price. There is a ton of information available online about this, so we advise everyone to conduct their own research to determine what is best for them. TIRE SUGGESTIONS WILL NOT BE PROVIDED BY PRIUS OFFROAD. Remember that choosing the right tires WILL IMPACT YOUR FUEL ECONOMY. Due to the tread pattern, rolling resistance, wind resistance, and weight of all-terrain tires, they typically have the poorest fuel efficiency (up to a 10+ mpg loss). All-season tires can give equivalent off-road traction in addition to much superior on-road performance and fuel efficiency. Here is a list of the tires we have so far enjoyed: General Grabber AT2, Toyo Open Country ATiii, Flaken Wild Peak AT Trail, BF Goodrich AT K02, General Grabber ATX, Yokohama Geolander AT, Michelin Defender, Michelin CrossClimate 2, General Altimax RT43, Yokohama Avid Ascent GT, BF Goodrich Advantage TA Sport, General Grabber AT2, and Yokohama Geolander AT
WHAT WHEELS ARE BEST?
dimensions such as weight, diameter, offset, and backspacing. The possibilities are limitless, and everyone has distinct preferences and priorities, just like tires. The factory-installed wheels that came with your Prius are in our opinion superior to anything else. Remember that the tire size you can fit DOES NOT depend on the size of the wheel. The fit of a 27″ tire on a 15″ wheel is identical to that of a 17″ or 16″ wheel. It is nearly impossible to find an aftermarket wheel that is lighter, stronger, and has the proper backspacing/offset/width/diameter. However, once again, we advise retaining your factory wheels and using those. If you are thinking about buying aftermarket wheels, 16-inch wheels typically provide more options for oversized tires while also balancing out the increase in tire diameter with tire sidewall when running an oversized tire. WHEEL SUGGESTIONS WILL NOT BE PROVIDED BY PRIUS OFFROAD.
WILL THE LIFT REDUCE MY FUEL ECONOMY?
Contrary to what many people think, our raise does not decrease fuel efficiency. The vast majority of our clients say that using just our lift hasn’t resulted in any notable decreases in fuel economy (.5-1mpg) Even a few “hyper-milers” have reported a small improvement in fuel efficiency (.5-1mpg). They contend that by having increased ground clearance, they are less frequently required to slow down for bumps and dips, allowing them to retain more speed. We have not, however, extensively tested or advocated for this. Remember that changing tire types or sizing WILL frequently result in decreased fuel efficiency. Before choosing which tires to purchase, we advise leaving the factory tires on so that you can enjoy the increased ride height without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
HOW MUCH DOES INSTALLATION COST?
Installation fees vary a LOT based on where you are, the sort of shop, and how knowledgeable they are about the Prius. We charge $350 for installation. Prices typically run from $350-$500, but again, there can be HUGE variations. Calling a local Prius expert is advised because they are much more likely to manage the installation than an off-road business, which would probably laugh at the idea of lifting a Prius. Since installation is identical to strut replacement, it may technically be performed by any auto repair shop or brake and alignment facility. Ask them if they have any ideas for someone who might be able to handle the installation in your region if they are unable or unable to do it themselves. You could also look for a mobile mechanic as a final resort. If you want to perform the installation yourself, we offer various in-depth videos and written instructions on our website that walk you through every stage of the procedure.
How can the ground clearance of a Prius be increased?
Buying wider tires is one of the simplest and most common ways to enhance the ground clearance of your car. Put some fresh tires on, and presto! Your car’s ground clearance has increased by one or two inches right away. But be careful not to overdo it. If you equip your car with too-large tires, they may rub against the interior of the wheel wells. Too-large tires can also restrict a vehicle’s turning radius, which will have a detrimental effect on how well it handles. As a result, you should refrain from increasing the tire size of your car by more than a few inches.
Prius, too close to the ground?
Smooth, paved roads are what the Toyota Prius was designed to travel on. In order to enhance fuel efficiency and balance off the additional weight a hybrid vehicle carries, it has been constructed with a low clearance. The 2022 Prius’ maximum ground clearance of 5.3 inches is far less than the 6.6-inch minimum advised by experts for even the mildest off-road adventures.
Therefore, the Prius’s ground clearance effectively disqualifies vehicle from off-road driving. But when you go off-roading, there are other factors to take into account than ground clearance. You’ll want a car with a strong engine and all-wheel or four-wheel drive capabilities in addition to sufficient ground clearance.
If you must go off-roading, think about getting a vehicle that is better equipped for the job, such the Jeep Wrangler, the Ford Bronco, or the Toyota RAV4.
Can Prius be driven off-road?
The Toyota Prius is the first hybrid vehicle that springs to mind when considering a purchase. The Toyota Prius has been a beloved vehicle among many automobile aficionados ever since its introduction in 1997. The first hybrid vehicle, it raised the bar for driving. This vehicle is a wonderful option for drivers all around the world thanks to its dynamic performance and superb handling.
The Toyota Prius has been revolutionizing hybrid technology for 20 years. Off-roading with this vehicle is really effective. When we use the term “off-roading,” we mean “over landing,” which is going somewhere with rough terrain and no paved roads. Due to a lack of infrastructure, these places tend to be isolated and difficult to access. But I assure you that such locations are worthwhile visiting. Not everyone can easily access these places. Bicycles and trucks are the only modes of transportation. Furthermore, we may assert that the only way to live in these isolated areas is through camping. People frequently travel to these places to experience isolation, learn about the cultures of other lands and people, or to explore and have some adventure.
Remote travel requires the use of a vehicle. As previously said, only a bicycle or a truck can easily go to these sites. The good news is that the Toyota Prius is the best hybrid overland vehicle a thrill seeker could ever own. The greatest four-wheel drive for an autonomous car enables you to travel over various terrains and inclement weather.
The Toyota Prius is a roomy and pleasant vehicle to drive on any surface, especially roads. The car’s interior is made of high-quality materials. It boasts a modern design and clear materials. The ergonomic seats are available in a variety of designs and materials that provide both flair and comfort. For your safety and observation when operating a Toyota Prius off-road, the sizable head-up display displays information on vehicle distance, hybrid, and speed on the glass. The Touch 2 with Go system combines navigation and entertainment in one device. What else could an explorer possibly require while traveling off-road?
Not only that, but the ground-breaking Toyota safety sense system opens up an entirely new realm of off-road driving. 22 carefully placed sensors alert you to potential threats so you can protect yourself and the vehicle from any harm. It aids in both your own and others’ protection. The best feature for off-roading with a Toyota Prius is in fact this one.
The Toyota Prius is a dependable and reasonably priced hybrid vehicle that delivers every great and practical feature a travel or automobile lover could imagine. It includes a broad list of standard features, including those we’ve already covered, and is fuel-efficient. We hope that this article will encourage you to reconsider your preferences if you still think that the Toyota Prius is not the ideal vehicle for off-road excursions.
What is a Toyota Prius’s ground clearance?
There is a list of scenarios that a typical conventional powertrain driver could find frustrating after learning how and why the Prius operates.
- The Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) will be warmed up as quickly and effectively as possible when the Prius is cold started, not to save fuel but to lessen emissions. Short commutes might not be noticeably superior to competing automobiles as a result, and official fuel ratings were never met. It is preferable, for instance, to travel a big distance on the first leg before making all of your stops on the return trip (i.e. plan your trip). The Prius may not achieve good or great fuel efficiency and may not be the best vehicle from the perspective of operating costs if there are many short excursions (e.g., under 5 minutes) and few longer ones (e.g., over 15 minutes) (a smaller engine, cheaper car might be a better option, to this respect).
- The High Voltage (HV) and 12 volt batteries in the Prius dislike staying idle. This could be a problem if you often leave your car in parking for more than three weeks. No issues if you drive it every week. The safe idle times decrease with age, although they are never less than a week. [true; further references/data needed]
- Wheelspin is never permitted, and traction control cannot be turned off. The Prius might not be a viable choice if wheelspin is deemed important for daily driving (e.g., icy slopes, uphill gravel driveway, etc.).
- The Prius has a comparable amount of ground clearance to other compact cars (5.5 inches, the same as the Toyota Yaris; a bit less than the Corolla (5.8) or Honda Civic Si (5.9)). Test the Prius before purchasing it if your regular commute takes you through terrain that requires high ground clearance to prevent being frustrated by the floor touching the ground.
- The Prius cannot be used for towing and has a weight limit of 825 pounds/374 kg [reference needed]. Although the trunk is very adaptable and roomy (for example, 8 ft/2.5 m of timber may be loaded with ease, and 10 ft/3 m is possible), the weight that must be carried may be an issue. Only bicycle mounts are legally permitted; tow hitches are not.
- The 12 volt battery is modest since it doesn’t have to operate under tremendous loads. Instead, when the Prius is not being driven, it mostly maintains it “alive.” The Prius uses a marine-style Deep Cycle battery, such as those made by Optima, for this reason (one popular third party source.) Near the HV Battery in the trunk is the 12V battery. Since the 12V battery does not directly power any drivetrain components of a typical car, such as the starter, one must search for more subtle signs that the battery is deteriorating. Slowness entering Ready mode or slow windows closing in ACC mode are two examples of useful hints.
- Toyota has experimented with cutting-edge solutions to cut pollution. For instance, the Gen I and II Prius’ North American fuel bladder minimizes vapor buildup. The “empty” light, even on the same Gen I/II Prius, can display a fraction of a gallon or a several gallons, making it difficult to anticipate when the tank is nearly empty. (Here is an example.) Drivers who must frequently use up the majority of the tank before refueling may think about staying away from the North American Gen I or II. Other Prii (including the North American Gen III) do not have this issue; depending on the specific car, their “empty” indicator often means there is actually 1-3 gallons of fuel left.