Toyota Prius Hatchback (2004 - 2009) 1.5 VVTi T3 Hybrid 5d CVT Auto (2007/07) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Naive for believing it was something that it is not.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
The electric mode is good as a party trick.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No. Manafucturer claims 65mph combined, truth is more like 53mpg if you drive like a granny and 48mpg otherwise. 1.5 litre engine seriously struggles when not in electric mode (accelerating beyond 30mph, maintaining a decent speed on the motorway). You can get quite a nice performing, good economy diesel car for the same price. The only advantage the Prius really has is the absurdly low road tax.
What are you likely to buy next?
Seat Leon TDI FR.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£15,000
When did you buy the car?
April 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
Fairly good.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Advertised economy of 65mpg combined.
What was the dealer like?
Not that good, they never followed up on promises to call me back about things I asked for at purchase.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Struggles on motorways at even 70 mph (it's much more geared towards urban driving). Engine refined and quiet during cruising, but sounds like a plane taking off when accelerating. Automatic transmission hasn't got a kick down mode, so flooring it does nothing.
What's it like to park?
Fine.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No.
What's most practical about your car?
Automatic gear box is nice in traffic jams.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Touch screen is fun for a few days (then you start to notice how much less efficient it is than more traditional controls).
