Toyota Prius Hatchback (2004 - 2009) 1.5 VVTi T3 Hybrid 5d CVT Auto (2004/54) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
I don't really care. I'm sure a lot of people think I'm trying to save the planet - which I'm not.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Most have no idea about the technology. To them it's just a large, quiet Toyota hatch.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes. I've probably owned 12+ cars in my life, and this is the only car I buy again if this one was stolen. Does everything I want in a car.
What are you likely to buy next?
A Toyota Prius.
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£8,500
When did you buy the car?
March 2009
Did you get a good deal and why?
I think so, but you can never be really sure. It was a non Toyota dealer - he sold Vauxhall, Renault etc - so I think people who wanted a Prius would visit him. He's had it on his forecourt for 5 months and was desperate to sell it.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I've had Toyotos before and been impressed with their trouble free quality. The promise of excellent mpg, and I didn't know I could buy a Prius for the price of a 'normal' car.
What was the dealer like?
OK - as far as dealers go. Wasn't too pushy. But had to take the car back twice to correct minor items - things he said he'd fix before I bought it.
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Absolutely painless. Flick the little lever into 'forward' and press the 'go' pedal. Press the (very impressive) brakes when you want to stop. Quiet, unruffled. Engine can get noisy if lots of acceleration is needed, as the CVT hold the revs at the most efficient engine speed. Drive slowly, and the engine stops - which takes a bit of getting used to.
What's it like to park?
Visibility at the corners isn't wonderful, but it's not really a problem. Electric power steering is super light. Reversing beeper is annoying.
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
It's a Toyota. Haven't had it for long (12 months) but it hasn't given a moments trouble.
What's most practical about your car?
It's a big, 5 door hatch - like lots of others.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Non really. (But I've only got the basic T3 version.) Four electric windows are nice.
