Hybrid vehicles are commonplace on roads in this day and age. But they all have the Toyota Prius to thank for ushering in a new age of environmentally friendly cars. Launched in 1997, the Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, and in the next few decades, it cemented its place as the world's most popular hybrid passenger car. In all its generations, the Prius offers class-leading fuel efficiency and, as a Toyota, unparalleled reliability and value. Those looking for a hybrid vehicle won't get much better than the industry standard, the Toyota Prius.
Origin
1st Generation (XW10; 1997-2003)
The Prius hit the Japanese market in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle. In the same year, the Prius won the Car of the Year Japan award, and in the following year, the Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference Car of the Year award in Japan. It came in a compact sedan body capable of seating five, slotting it between the smaller Corolla and the larger Camry. Its driving performance was comparable to that of existing gasoline-powered cars, but its biggest strength was a fantastic fuel efficiency of 28.0 km/l, made possible primarily by its hybrid system featuring a 1.5L VVT-i gasoline engine and an electric motor. Furthermore, the first generation Prius also featured a mechanism to stop the engine while idling, reducing energy, and a regenerative braking system that converts kinetic energy into electricity during decelerating and braking.
2nd Generation (XW20; 2003-2009)
In 2003, Toyota revamped the Prius, marking the beginning of its second generation. First among its many changes was a switch in body style from compact sedan to compact liftback and rearrangement of interior space, significantly increasing the rear leg room and luggage capacity. The second-gen Prius was also more aerodynamic, contributing to better fuel consumption rates. The Toyota Hybrid System (THS) that was used previously was upgraded to the THS II, which featured an improved engine and electric motor. All these changes came together to give the second-gen Prius fuel consumption rate of 35.0 km/l.
Besides changes to its body and hybrid system, the second generation Prius also got several world-first technologies such as the Intelligent Parking Assist system, the Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control system (S-VSC), and an electric inverter-controlled automatic air conditioner.
3rd Generation (XW30; 2009-2015)
On the outside, the third generation bore carried over the triangular silhouette of its predecessors, except in a larger package. Despite this increase in size, the third-gen Prius was more aerodynamic. The THS 2 was improved to come with a reduction gear, and its 1.5L engine was increased in size to a 1.8L unit. This larger engine was paired with an improved motor to enable better fuel consumption at higher speeds. Other improvements included the addition of a Toyota-first electric-powered water pump and an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system that reduced internal friction, both of which contributed to an improved fuel efficiency of 38.0 km/l.
4th Generation (XW50; 2015-2022)
The fourth generation Prius came in a leaner and meaner body with a low center of gravity thanks to the adoption of the Toyota New Global Architecture modular platform that also increased the structural rigidity of the Prius's body. As part of a 2018 facelift, the fourth-generation Prius also got redesigned headlights and taillights. An all-wheel-drive version of the Prius was introduced, which made use of Toyota's E-four electrical four-wheel drive system.
5th Generation (XW60; 2022-present)
For the Prius's fifth and most recent generation, its front area was lowered, and cargo volume decreased for a more aggressive stance. Two powertrain options are available--either the Toyota Series Parallel Hybrid System available in 1.8L or 2.0L variants and with E-Four AWD to produce 193 hp and 196 hp, respectively, or the plug-in hybrid system made up of the 2.0L M20A-FXS paired with lithium-ion batteries and an electric motor to produce 220 hp.
Engine Performance & Technology
Priuses from the second generation onward use the second version of the Toyota Hybrid System, the THS II, also known as Hybrid Synergy Drive. Hybrid Synergy Drive is Toyota's advanced hybrid technology that combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and features regenerative braking to deliver maximum performance as and when needed, recycle energy, and reduce energy wastage. The Hybrid Synergy Drive can also run on the electric motor only, stopping the use of the combustion engine and lowering emissions.
Some newer Priuses from 2017 make use of Toyota's Dynamic Force engines. These engines developed under the Toyota New Global Architecture strategy have a new cylinder head and intake port design (among many other changes) to achieve "direct feeling, smooth and pleasant acceleration performance" paired with good fuel consumption levels.
Safety & Reliability
Priuses consistently receive good ratings in safety assessments thanks to their comprehensive range of safety features, which includes standards like an advanced airbag system made up of front airbags for the driver and front passenger, side and curtain airbags, ABS, and EBD (the exact list will depend on the model, year and trim).
Newer Priuses also come with advanced safety features that provide an additional layer of safety, such as a lane departure warning that alerts the driver when the vehicle is veering from the lane and a blind spot monitoring system that calls attention to cars in the blind spot. These two safety features are also part of a suite of technologies known as Toyota Safety Sense that also includes a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Road Sign Assist, and Lane Tracking Assist (LTA).
Trim Configurations
Trims for the Prius vary according to their market. There are also region-specific special edition Priuses, such as the Nightshade Edition, which adds black paint to the exterior trims. AWD versions of the Prius that feature Toyota's E-Four system are available from the fourth generation onwards.
Conclusion
The Prius offers exceptional value for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and list of equipment. Find a used Prius in good condition here at BE FORWARD.
BE FORWARD : Excellent cars stocked in Japan, Singapore, UK, UAE, Thailand, and Korea, safely delivered worldwide to your location.
The Prius offers excellent fuel economy, a spacious, refined and quiet interior, and unrivalled levels of reliability. Its cutting-edge technology and legendary Toyota quality are reflected in the fact that it is not uncommon to achieve mileages in excess of a million kilometres. An ideal choice for those looking for a truly satisfying everyday driving experience.
Thinking about other cars?
Check out our YouTube channel for honest, in-depth reviews
Used TOYOTA PRIUS for Sale
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SHIPPING METHOD
Search Results (6,000)
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Price $1,750Total Price $3,905C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 1999 / 11Mileage: 126,595 km
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Price $1,890Total Price $4,045C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 1999 / 1Mileage: 127,000 km
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Price $1,970Total Price $4,448C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009 / 7Mileage: 172,200 km
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Price $2,120You Save $270 (11%)Total Price $4,404C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009Mileage: 157,350 km
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Price $2,190Total Price $4,452C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010 / 8Mileage: 151,680 km
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Price $2,240You Save $710 (24%)Total Price $4,662C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009Mileage: 184,000 km
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Price $2,260Total Price $4,755C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010 / 12Mileage: 220,000 km
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Price $2,320You Save $350 (13%)Total Price $4,685C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2011Mileage: 193,000 km
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Price $2,320Total Price $4,685C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010Mileage: 193,000 km
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Price $2,330Total Price $4,637C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010 / 7Mileage: 191,000 km
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Price $2,330Total Price $4,825C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010Mileage: 138,496 km
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Price $2,330Total Price $4,604C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009Mileage: 297,000 km
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Price $2,360Total Price $4,838C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009 / 11Mileage: 104,000 km
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Price $2,390Total Price $4,885C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010 / 11Mileage: 132,971 km
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Price $2,390Total Price $4,835C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2009 / 8Mileage: 173,136 km
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Price $2,390You Save $1,330 (35%)Total Price $4,691C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010Mileage: 38,372 km
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Price $2,390Total Price $4,658C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2005 / 10Mileage: 53,000 km
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Price $2,390Total Price $4,652C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2011Mileage: 145,628 km
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Price $2,400Total Price $4,839C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2010 / 12Mileage: 146,244 km
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Price $2,400Total Price $4,862C&F Baltimore (RORO)Year: 2004 / 4Mileage: 292,000 km
TOYOTA PRIUS 2009-2015 | BF CAR REVIEW
The Prius offers excellent fuel economy, a spacious, refined and quiet interior, and unrivalled levels of reliability. Its cutting-edge technology and legendary Toyota quality are reflected in the fact that it is not uncommon to achieve mileages in excess of a million kilometres. An ideal choice for those looking for a truly satisfying everyday driving experience.
Thinking about other cars?
Check out our YouTube channel for honest, in-depth reviews
About TOYOTA Prius
Hybrid vehicles are commonplace on roads in this day and age. But they all have the Toyota Prius to thank for ushering in a new age of environmentally friendly cars. Launched in 1997, the Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, and in the next few decades, it cemented its place as the world's most popular hybrid passenger car. In all its generations, the Prius offers class-leading fuel efficiency and, as a Toyota, unparalleled reliability and value. Those looking for a hybrid vehicle won't get much better than the industry standard, the Toyota Prius.
Origin
1st Generation (XW10; 1997-2003)
The Prius hit the Japanese market in 1997 as the world's first mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle. In the same year, the Prius won the Car of the Year Japan award, and in the following year, the Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference Car of the Year award in Japan. It came in a compact sedan body capable of seating five, slotting it between the smaller Corolla and the larger Camry. Its driving performance was comparable to that of existing gasoline-powered cars, but its biggest strength was a fantastic fuel efficiency of 28.0 km/l, made possible primarily by its hybrid system featuring a 1.5L VVT-i gasoline engine and an electric motor. Furthermore, the first generation Prius also featured a mechanism to stop the engine while idling, reducing energy, and a regenerative braking system that converts kinetic energy into electricity during decelerating and braking.
2nd Generation (XW20; 2003-2009)
In 2003, Toyota revamped the Prius, marking the beginning of its second generation. First among its many changes was a switch in body style from compact sedan to compact liftback and rearrangement of interior space, significantly increasing the rear leg room and luggage capacity. The second-gen Prius was also more aerodynamic, contributing to better fuel consumption rates. The Toyota Hybrid System (THS) that was used previously was upgraded to the THS II, which featured an improved engine and electric motor. All these changes came together to give the second-gen Prius fuel consumption rate of 35.0 km/l.
Besides changes to its body and hybrid system, the second generation Prius also got several world-first technologies such as the Intelligent Parking Assist system, the Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control system (S-VSC), and an electric inverter-controlled automatic air conditioner.
3rd Generation (XW30; 2009-2015)
On the outside, the third generation bore carried over the triangular silhouette of its predecessors, except in a larger package. Despite this increase in size, the third-gen Prius was more aerodynamic. The THS 2 was improved to come with a reduction gear, and its 1.5L engine was increased in size to a 1.8L unit. This larger engine was paired with an improved motor to enable better fuel consumption at higher speeds. Other improvements included the addition of a Toyota-first electric-powered water pump and an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system that reduced internal friction, both of which contributed to an improved fuel efficiency of 38.0 km/l.
4th Generation (XW50; 2015-2022)
The fourth generation Prius came in a leaner and meaner body with a low center of gravity thanks to the adoption of the Toyota New Global Architecture modular platform that also increased the structural rigidity of the Prius's body. As part of a 2018 facelift, the fourth-generation Prius also got redesigned headlights and taillights. An all-wheel-drive version of the Prius was introduced, which made use of Toyota's E-four electrical four-wheel drive system.
5th Generation (XW60; 2022-present)
For the Prius's fifth and most recent generation, its front area was lowered, and cargo volume decreased for a more aggressive stance. Two powertrain options are available--either the Toyota Series Parallel Hybrid System available in 1.8L or 2.0L variants and with E-Four AWD to produce 193 hp and 196 hp, respectively, or the plug-in hybrid system made up of the 2.0L M20A-FXS paired with lithium-ion batteries and an electric motor to produce 220 hp.
Engine Performance & Technology
Priuses from the second generation onward use the second version of the Toyota Hybrid System, the THS II, also known as Hybrid Synergy Drive. Hybrid Synergy Drive is Toyota's advanced hybrid technology that combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and features regenerative braking to deliver maximum performance as and when needed, recycle energy, and reduce energy wastage. The Hybrid Synergy Drive can also run on the electric motor only, stopping the use of the combustion engine and lowering emissions.
Some newer Priuses from 2017 make use of Toyota's Dynamic Force engines. These engines developed under the Toyota New Global Architecture strategy have a new cylinder head and intake port design (among many other changes) to achieve "direct feeling, smooth and pleasant acceleration performance" paired with good fuel consumption levels.
Safety & Reliability
Priuses consistently receive good ratings in safety assessments thanks to their comprehensive range of safety features, which includes standards like an advanced airbag system made up of front airbags for the driver and front passenger, side and curtain airbags, ABS, and EBD (the exact list will depend on the model, year and trim).
Newer Priuses also come with advanced safety features that provide an additional layer of safety, such as a lane departure warning that alerts the driver when the vehicle is veering from the lane and a blind spot monitoring system that calls attention to cars in the blind spot. These two safety features are also part of a suite of technologies known as Toyota Safety Sense that also includes a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Road Sign Assist, and Lane Tracking Assist (LTA).
Trim Configurations
Trims for the Prius vary according to their market. There are also region-specific special edition Priuses, such as the Nightshade Edition, which adds black paint to the exterior trims. AWD versions of the Prius that feature Toyota's E-Four system are available from the fourth generation onwards.
Conclusion
The Prius offers exceptional value for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and list of equipment. Find a used Prius in good condition here at BE FORWARD.
BE FORWARD : Excellent cars stocked in Japan, Singapore, UK, UAE, Thailand, and Korea, safely delivered worldwide to your location.