Toyota Prius Hatchback (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
The third Toyota Prius may not look that different from its predecessor but thanks to several key improvements it's actually a big leap forward. Like before it's a hybrid, so uses a conventional petrol engine alongside an electric motor, but it is now a realistic alternative to low-emission diesel cars when it comes to performance and driving. There's just one gearbox - an automatic CVT - but it has seamless changes while the 1.8-litre engine and electric motor deliver responsive performance. It's cleaner and more powerful than the previous Prius while in town it can operate purely in electric mode, using no fuel and with zero emissions. Unlike before, if you choose a Prius you don't have to make sacrifices in performance for the sake of owning a hybrid.
4 out of 5

Other Toyota reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

This Prius scored the maximum five stars in the tougher Euro NCAP crash tests introduced in 2009. This new overall rating covers Adult Occupant Protection, Child Occupant Protection, Pedestrian Protection and a new area of assessment: Safety Assist Standard. Features on the Prius include seven airbags and active headrests which protect passengers from whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision. There's also traction control, brake assist and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) that works to bring the car under control in the event of a skid. On the outside, the bumper structure is designed to minimise the risk of leg injuries and the front wings feature an impact absorbing bracket to reduce the chances of a head injury.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

Hybrid technology is no longer new and has proved reliable and robust. The Prius has undergone extensive testing over billions of miles and the battery is designed to last the entire life of the car. The Prius also boasts the lowest warranty cost per car of all Toyota models. If the unlikely happens and anything does go wrong, you'll be dealing with a company that has the best reputation in the industry for customer care.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.