I'm thinking about getting a second Prius now. My impression reading through many posts is that Gen II is actually a little more durable, and Gen III cut corners somewhat. I'm looking for something at $10K to $13K for II and III, drive it 30K/Y, and plan to keep 5 Y+. Which one you will pick, especially if you have a II and bought second one.
i think my gen III is just as high quality as my 2 gen II's. all other things equal, with the mileage you put on it, i would go with the lowest mileage vehicle i could afford. all the best!
Most definitely GIII. Why would you go backwards? The GII is not a classic car...no need to reverse course in ALL aspects of hybrid tech. GIII better in every regard.
Bought a 2010 Prius several months ago. Need new tires. Review sites require the Gen or Model number. Cannot locate on any paperwork and the Toyota Service person had no idea. Also, any suggestions for new tires would be appreciated. Like to retain good mileage and quiet. Mostly drive in town and am easy on tires. Thx much. P.S. although my identity shows a Prius III, I am not sure that is correct!
If you have small speakers (squawks/tweeters) on the upper part of the rear doors, in addition to the large grill below, it is a III or higher. Factory Leather came on IV. Factory 17" wheels came on the V. Michelin Energy Saver A/S are said to be best MPG, Defenders better ride.
Thx for your reply. I have a Gen III. FYI, tried to buy Michelin Energy Saver A/S at Tire Choice near me. Guy said they don't have them and tried to up-sell me. Went home and called another local Tire Choice that checked their warehouse. Got them installed the next day!!! Only have a couple hundred miles on them so far and mileage is same as the old Yoko AVID S33 (which lasted lesss than 36,000 miles). Will post again after I have more miles on the new ones.
I have a friend that asked the same question when the 2010's came out. My opinion at the time was that the Gen II interior was designed by an engineer and the Gen III was designed by an interior decorator. The most obvious difference that concerned me was the placement of the gear shift. The Gen II has it close enough to the steering wheel that a quick flick of the pinky is all that is needed to go "B" when needed. For the Gen III you need to move the hand to do the same. My friend bought a used 2009, but later also got a 2010. Several months ago, I bought a PiP. In hindsight, I'd go with the Gen III.
I have a Gen II with 93,000 miles on it. I test drove a used Gen III at dealership. To me the Gen III, was a bit louder, more crowded, ( even though its a bit bigger.. hmm) had less visibility and louder than my current Gen II. Without sounding to picky, the steering wheel seemed to have a rough feel. Also, I noticed the cheap feel of the rear spoiler when I opened and closed the hatch, it rattled some. The Gen III notable good things- a bit more powerful. I hope the Gen IV improves on the visibility and interior noise it is and the one I will wait for. If I had to buy now, would buy a Gen II without question. There are still certified 2009 's out there. Not all dealers will carry 2009 certified, so look around. Oh - since I didn't like the Gen III as much as I'd hope. I decided to wait. I almost considered a lower mileage Certified 2009 Gen II, but decided it wasn't worth the investment since there is quite the life left in my 2007 Gen II.
I have both gen 2&3, I use the 3 everyday, it get's 10mpg more then the 2, both have leather, the 3 has power lumbar, the 2 has a memory foam lumbar cushion, both are very comfortable Both are ugly, all the way to the gas pump
