Toyota Prius Hatchback (2004 - 2009) 1.5 VVTi T Spirit Hybrid 5d CVT Auto (2008/58) 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?
At 20 years old (18 when purchased) shows I'm not a boy racer, and like to spend money wisely.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They think it looks ugly, but love the running costs and gadgets.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No as the next car I buy will be towing a caravan which the Prius is incapable of. However I would certainly recommend if someone was on a budget. Prefer manual transmission and miss the control.
What are you likely to buy next?
Mazda6 2.2D, BMW 320d ED or Volvo V40 1.6D for exceptional fuel economy and towing ability.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£8,990
When did you buy the car?
February 2012
Did you get a good deal and why?
Cheapest low mileage example around at the time. Purchased from a main Toyota dealer so expected the service to be second to none, ie worth the price.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Fuel economy and gadgets. Reliability played a big part, too.
What was the dealer like?
Full of promises, however failed to deliver. Forgot to send off paperwork for plate transfer on a Friday so car was delayed 3 days, failed to provide promised mats and full tank of fuel (only half tank).
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Effortless, quick acceleration thanks to CVT gearbox. Handles better than previous Citroen C4. Seats not too comfortable long distance. Cruise control big help for tired legs but not for fuel economy.
What's it like to park?
Camera and small front end makes it a simple task. Intelligent park assist works well but takes a long time to set up.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Bought car 100 miles away, when I got home warning lights were displayed (both oxygen sensors were gone) and tracking was off at speeds over 50mph (not checked on test drive due to rush hour). Toyota 12 month warranty covered this. Alarm goes off when Bluetooth enabled phone left in car. No other issues since.
What's most practical about your car?
Boot is large when back seats are flat, good for camping. 65mpg average on commute, 60mpg long distance and petrol so cheaper per litre too.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Reversing camera makes life easier with tight parallel parking. EV mode really impresses passengers.
