Toyota Prius
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a hybrid car that doesn’t feel like a compromise? The Toyota Prius might be exactly what you’re looking for. This pioneering hybrid hatchback has been completely redesigned to offer striking looks, impressive fuel economy, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience. It’s the car for people who want to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing style or practicality.

From the moment you see it, the new Prius stands out dramatically from its predecessor. The bold, angular design and distinctive LED lighting give it a futuristic presence that rivals like the Honda Jazz or Toyota Yaris simply can’t match. But the real transformation happens when you step inside. The cabin feels modern and spacious, with a high-tech dashboard and quality materials that elevate the entire experience. You get the sense that Toyota has listened to years of feedback and created something genuinely desirable.

Driving the new Prius is a revelation compared to earlier generations. The hybrid powertrain delivers smooth acceleration while returning exceptional fuel economy figures. It handles more confidently than you’d expect, making both city driving and longer journeys genuinely enjoyable. The ride quality has improved significantly, filtering out road imperfections while maintaining good body control. While it commands a premium over conventional alternatives, you’re investing in proven hybrid technology that delivers real-world savings at the fuel pump every single day.

What's the Toyota Prius Like to Drive?

The Toyota Prius uses a sophisticated hybrid system combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine with electric motors, producing around 190 horsepower total. This setup delivers smooth, linear acceleration that feels more refined than traditional petrol engines. The 0-60 mph time of around 8.1 seconds puts it ahead of many conventional compact hatchback rivals while delivering significantly better fuel economy. The electric-only mode works brilliantly for quiet town driving and car parks.

Where the Prius truly impresses is in its overall refinement and driving dynamics. The steering feels precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence through corners. The suspension has been completely redesigned to provide a more engaging driving experience while maintaining excellent ride comfort. Road noise has been significantly reduced compared to previous generations, creating a serene cabin environment. The regenerative braking system feels natural and progressive, adding to the overall sense of sophistication. You get a car that’s both efficient and genuinely pleasant to drive daily.

Inside the Toyota Prius: Comfort & Features

Step inside the new Prius and the transformation from previous generations is immediately apparent. The dashboard features a clean, modern design with a large central touchscreen that controls most functions. The materials used throughout feel substantially more premium, with soft-touch surfaces and well-finished details. The front seats offer excellent support and comfort, with good adjustment range to suit different body types. Even the rear seats provide reasonable space for adults on shorter journeys.

The cabin benefits from impressive sound insulation that creates a genuinely quiet environment at cruising speeds. Standard equipment includes smartphone integration, climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety systems. Higher specification models add features like heated seats, premium audio systems, and ambient lighting that enhance the premium feel. The driving position is comfortable and commanding, with excellent visibility all around. Storage spaces throughout the cabin are well thought out, with practical door bins and cup holders positioned for easy access.

The Toyota Prius succeeds brilliantly in transforming itself from an efficiency-focused oddity into a genuinely desirable hybrid hatchback. The dramatic styling will divide opinion, but there’s no denying it has presence and character. More importantly, the driving experience has been transformed, offering refinement and engagement that previous generations simply couldn’t match. The interior feels premium and well-executed throughout.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Toyota Prius?

The Toyota Prius excels when it comes to running costs, which is exactly what you’d expect from Toyota’s hybrid pioneer. Real-world fuel economy regularly exceeds 55 mpg, and many owners report figures above 60 mpg with careful driving. This translates to significant savings at the fuel pump compared to conventional petrol cars. Insurance groups are reasonable for the performance level, typically falling into groups 15-20 depending on the specification chosen.

The initial purchase price reflects the advanced hybrid technology, positioning the Prius above basic hatchbacks but in line with other premium alternatives. Toyota’s reputation for reliability means maintenance costs should remain predictable, with the hybrid system covered by an impressive warranty. When considering car finance options, the strong residual values help keep monthly payments manageable. The combination of exceptional fuel economy, low emissions, and Toyota’s proven reliability makes the Prius an intelligent choice for cost-conscious drivers who want something special.

Toyota Prius Practicality & Boot Space

For a car with such distinctive styling, the Toyota Prius offers respectable practicality for everyday use. The 284-litre boot provides adequate space for weekly shopping or weekend bags, though the sloping roofline does limit the loading height for bulkier items. The rear seats fold to expand cargo capacity when needed, and there are plenty of useful storage compartments throughout the cabin for smaller items.

Where the Prius shows its limits is in rear seat headroom due to the coupe-like roofline. While fine for children or shorter adults, taller passengers might find it restrictive on longer journeys. For couples or small families, however, the Prius offers enough space for most situations while delivering those impressive fuel economy figures. Its compact dimensions make it easy to park in tight city spaces, while the excellent turning circle aids manoeuvrability. Compared to other used Toyota cars, it strikes a good balance between efficiency and everyday usability.

The Toyota Prius has successfully reinvented itself as a stylish and desirable hybrid that no longer requires compromises. It combines Toyota’s proven hybrid technology with striking design, premium interior quality, and genuinely engaging driving dynamics. The exceptional fuel economy and low running costs make it an intelligent choice for environmentally conscious drivers who refuse to sacrifice style or comfort.

You choose the new Prius because you want a car that makes a positive statement about both efficiency and design. Its bold looks, refined driving experience, and impressive technology make every journey feel special while delivering real world savings. With excellent build quality and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, it represents a smart long-term investment. For drivers seeking a hybrid hatchbook that’s both responsible and genuinely desirable, the Prius should be at the top of your consideration list.