Hi - I am wanting to get a used prius, all my research says the 2009 model was very reliable. BUT.... which model is it? I see 2nd gen models go up to 2009, I see 3rd gen models start at 2009... Anyone know which actual model , e.g. model number, is the best to go for? My budget is c. 7000k thanks
welcome! iirc, gen 3 started in 2009 across the pond. if that's the case, be careful. last year of gen 2 is shown as 2009 over here, and reliability is very good. it depends on where the review is coming from. first year of gen 3 is 2010 over here, and has a lot of problems (in some cases) egr being the biggest difference. that being said, they're both 10 years od and will soon need a new battery, if they don't already have one.
Yes... the very best Prius of all time is the 2009 Gen2 standard model... The touring model has bigger wheels and softer rear shocks and a bigger wing, but don't buy that one because the tires for the bigger wheels are substantially more expensive and Prius is supposed to be about saving money not wasting it.
Thanks, so the best is the 2009 Gen2 standard model. In the USA. What is that in UK terms? And any more advice on battery replacement? Many thanks all. Minefield!
What I'm struggling with is understanding the model names and deciphering if they are Gen 2 etc. For example what is this: Toyota Prius LTD ED 2 VVT-ICVT 2009 ? How can I tell what generation it is?
Whenever you see a Prius, ask the driver, which one... You'll start to get it figured out. Us folks in the USA aren't going to be much help. You need to talk to people in the UK for these details.
Google images of Gen 2 (2004-2009) and Gen 3 (2009-2015) the look is distinctive if you look close enough. Failing that ask what engine it has. Gen 2 NHW20 (1NZ engine), Gen 3 ZVW30 (2ZR engine).
