The 2012 Toyota Prius is a hybrid hatchback, part of the Prius's third generation (2009-2015). Key trims included the Two, Three, Four, and Five. New, it ranged from approximately $24,000 to $30,000. Its popularity stems from its exceptional fuel efficiency and reliability, making it a standout choice for eco-conscious buyers seeking long-term value and reduced running costs. It pioneered hybrid technology for mainstream consumers.
The Good
The 2012 Prius offers exceptional fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking savings at the pump. Its proven reliability provides peace of mind, while the comfortable ride and spacious interior enhance the driving experience. Environmentally conscious drivers appreciate its hybrid technology and reduced emissions, aligning with their values.
The Bad
The 2012 Prius's weaknesses include relatively slow acceleration and uninspiring handling. Some owners report issues with excessive oil consumption. The regenerative braking system can feel grabby and unnatural. While reliable overall, battery life is a long-term concern as the car ages and the battery degrades, potentially requiring costly replacement.
2012 Toyota Prius: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.8L 4-cylinder engine with Hybrid Synergy Drive system
- Horsepower: 134 total system horsepower (combined engine and electric motor)
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA estimated 51 mpg city / 48 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 10.1 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Two: Standard features include keyless entry, automatic climate control, a CD player, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen display.
- Three: Adds features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and upgraded audio system.
- Four: Includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
- Five: Top-of-the-line trim with LED headlights, fog lights, and optional advanced technology packages like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Navigation system is often included.
- Hybrid System:
- Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack
- Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT)
2012 Toyota Prius Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Prius |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Door |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | KARIYA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1435.62 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1805.3 kg |
| Overall Height | 149.1 cm |
| Overall Length | 448.06 cm |
| Overall Width | 174.5 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 270 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
| Steering Type | Electric Power Assisted Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $39,525 USD |
| Invoice Price | $37,945 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $795 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Toyota Prius Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Toyota Prius include excessive oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. This issue can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. Some owners have also reported issues with the hybrid battery pack degrading over time, reducing fuel efficiency and eventually requiring replacement. The regenerative braking system can sometimes feel inconsistent or "grabby". Recalls for the 2012 Prius have addressed issues such as potential fuel leaks due to cracks in the fuel tank and problems with the water pump in the hybrid system. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the longevity of the hybrid battery. While many batteries last well over 100,000 miles, replacement costs can be significant. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and hybrid system checks, is crucial for mitigating potential problems. Suspension components, like struts and shocks, may also require replacement as the vehicle ages. Checking for these issues during a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.
How long will the 2012 Toyota Prius last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Toyota Prius can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 10-15 years of service. Long-term durability is generally excellent, but the hybrid battery is a key consideration. Its lifespan depends on climate, usage, and maintenance. Expect to possibly replace it around 150,000-200,000 miles. Oil consumption can increase with age. Regular fluid checks and timely repairs are essential to maximize the vehicle's lifespan. Suspension components also wear out over time, affecting ride quality and handling.
Positive Owner Reviews
SherryMI
This car was purchased as a gift for my son to use to travel to his job out of town. He has a lease and I didn’t want him to rack up miles on his other car/lease. As a previous Prius owner, I know he would love another Prius to use daily. After this reliable vehicle is paid off, I plan to buy one for my other son and then a new one for myself! We love the hybrids in our family!
Tom
I had a 2004 and a 2007 Prius and this one is better. It is quieter, rides smoother, feels more solid and just seems more refined. I'm happy to have it.
IR
You can’t find more reliable and affordable car than Toyota Prius. If you ge the full package the there is no car out there to bit that.
Negative Owner Reviews
Rowdy200
I bought it for the gas mileage and we certainly appreciated that. But the car was reliable, smooth, powerful enough and had surprising storage space in back. We didn't like the front console and thought the car was a bit noisy, but we really enjoyed having it.
bob12345
Got 100K on the vehicle and had no mechanical failure. Brake rotors and pads are still excellent. No leaks. It comes with 40,000 mi tires but the Michelins I put on are up to 60K now and still have 10K in tread value. I don't like the center consul or the squeaky dash board. Milage is just as they reported 45-50 and with a light foot on a good day you can get 55MPG. No lie. I saved lots of money buying this car as my wife like to accelerate and then HIT THE BRAKES hard.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Toyota Prius comes standard with a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, a CD player, and auxiliary audio input. Higher trims add features like Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a premium JBL audio system. Optional features include a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards but could include adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist on higher trims.
Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags (front, side, and curtain). The 2012 Prius received strong crash-test ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall score of four out of five stars. Key safety technology includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA). The Smart Stop Technology (SST) helps to reduce engine power when both the accelerator and brake pedals are applied simultaneously under certain conditions.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards but could include adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist on higher trims.
Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags (front, side, and curtain). The 2012 Prius received strong crash-test ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a "Top Safety Pick" award. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall score of four out of five stars. Key safety technology includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA). The Smart Stop Technology (SST) helps to reduce engine power when both the accelerator and brake pedals are applied simultaneously under certain conditions.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Blizzard Pearl
Barcelona Red Metallic
Black
Sea Glass Pearl
Winter Gray Metallic
Sandy Beach Metallic
Blue Ribbon Metallic
Interior Colors
Dark Gray
Bisque
Dark Gray w/Fabric Seat Trim
Bisque w/Fabric Seat Trim
2012 Toyota Prius Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Toyota Prius ranged from approximately $24,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim level. Current used market prices typically range from $7,000 to $15,000, influenced by mileage, condition, and trim. The Prius depreciates moderately well due to its strong reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. Factors affecting resale value include battery health, maintenance records, and overall cosmetic condition. Low mileage examples in excellent condition command the highest prices. The popularity of hybrid vehicles also contributes to its decent resale value compared to some other vehicles in its class.
2012 Toyota Prius Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Toyota Prius is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs are exceptionally low due to its excellent fuel economy. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is affordable. Repairs can be more expensive if the hybrid battery needs replacement, but otherwise, reliability is good. Long-term ownership costs are lower than average due to the reduced fuel consumption and generally reliable nature of the vehicle.
2012 Toyota Prius Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Fuel Capacity
17.92 liters
City Mileage
1.96 km/l
Highway Mileage
2.08 km/l
2012 Toyota Prius Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Toyota Prius Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date
2013-01-16
Recall no.
13v014000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence
IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2013-04-09
Recall no.
13v123000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-2013 Toyota Venza, 2010-2011 Toyota 4runner, 2010-2013 Toyota Tacoma, 2011-2012 Toyota Sienna, 2012 Toyota Prius, 2013 Scion Fr-s, 2011 Scion XD, 2011 Scion XB, and 2012 Scion TC Vehicles. These Vehicles Were Sold With Labels That Were Outside THE Allowable ONE Percent OF Accuracy OF Actual Weight Added. Thus, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
AN Inaccurate Label Could Lead TO Owners Overloading Their Vehicles and Tires. AN Overloaded Vehicle CAN Result IN A Tire Failure Which MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash, Personal Injury, or Property Damage.
Remedy
Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners and Provide A Corrected Label With Instructions Concerning ITS Installation. A Small Group OF THE Affected Vehicles Will Need Additonal Remedies Which ARE Still Being Developed. THE Recall Began ON MAY 28, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date
2014-02-12
Recall no.
14v053000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Through 2014 Prius Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Inside THE Inverter Module (A Component OF THE Hybrid System) Contains Transistors That MAY Become Damaged From High Operating Temperatures. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel and THE Vehicle Will Have Reduced Power Allowing IT TO Only Drive A Short Distance.
Consequence
THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. THE Hybrid System Could Also Shut Down Completely Resulting IN A Vehicle Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR Both THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control Ecu, Free OF Charge. IF AN Owner Experiences A Failure OF THE Inverter Before THE Vehicle Receives Updated Software, THE Dealer Will Repair or Replace THE Inverter Assembly With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System: Inverter
Recall date
2014-02-12
Recall no.
14v053000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010 Through 2014 Prius Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Inside THE Inverter Module (A Component OF THE Hybrid System) Contains Transistors That MAY Become Damaged From High Operating Temperatures. IF This Occurs, Various Warning Lamps Will BE Illuminated ON THE Instrument Panel and THE Vehicle Will Have Reduced Power Allowing IT TO Only Drive A Short Distance.
Consequence
THE Vehicle MAY Enter A Fail-Safe/Limp-Home Mode That Limits THE Drivability OF THE Vehicle. THE Hybrid System Could Also Shut Down Completely Resulting IN A Vehicle Stall, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR Both THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control Ecu, Free OF Charge. IF AN Owner Experiences A Failure OF THE Inverter Before THE Vehicle Receives Updated Software, THE Dealer Will Repair or Replace THE Inverter Assembly With A NEW ONE AT NO Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date
2016-06-30
Recall no.
16v487000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2012 Toyota Prius, 2010 and 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, and 2011-2012 Lexus Ct200h Vehicles. A Weld IN THE Curtain Shield AIR BAG Inflator MAY Crack Causing ONE or Both Portions OF THE Inflator TO Eject Into THE Passenger Cabin.
Consequence
IF Either Portion OF THE Curtain Shield AIR BAG Inflator Ejects Into THE Passenger Cabin, There IS AN Increased Risk OF Injury TO Vehicle Occupants.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Retention Brackets TO THE Curtain Shield AIR Bags, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 17, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service Department AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS Toyota G0u, and Lexus Glj.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date
2016-06-02
Recall no.
16v396000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence
IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Hybrid Propulsion System
Recall date
2018-10-04
Recall no.
18v684000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Toyota Prius and 2012-2014 Toyota Prius V Vehicles. Excessive Voltage IN THE Intelligent Power Module (Ipm) Within THE Inverter MAY Cause THE Hybrid System TO Shut Down, Causing THE Vehicle TO Stall While Being Driven.
Consequence
IF THE Hybrid System Shuts Down Unexpectedly, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Motor/Generator Control Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) and THE Hybrid Control ECU AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 22, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS J0v. Note: THE Software Updates IN This Recall ARE Needed Even IF THE Vehicle HAD THE Software Previously Updated Under Recalls 14v-053 or 15v-449.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Toyota Prius Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Roadside Assistance
Original warranty
24 months / 25,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2012 Toyota Prius Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Toyota Prius is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Toyota Prius Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Toyota Prius competes with other hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicles like the Honda Insight, Nissan Leaf, and Ford Fusion Hybrid. The Prius stands out for its superior fuel economy and proven reliability compared to the Insight and Fusion Hybrid. The Leaf, being fully electric, offers zero emissions but suffers from range anxiety and longer charging times. In terms of features, the Prius offers a comparable level of technology to its rivals, but its infotainment system may feel dated compared to newer models from other brands. Price-wise, the Prius is generally competitive. Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Camry Hybrid for a larger sedan with good fuel economy, or a newer hybrid model for updated technology and safety features. If pure electric driving is desired, a used Nissan Leaf or Chevy Bolt could be an option, but range limitations should be considered. Overall, the Prius excels in fuel efficiency and reliability, making it a strong choice for those prioritizing these factors. However, buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience or cutting-edge technology might explore other alternatives.
Ranks #116 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 116 | 2012 Toyota Prius | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Toyota Prius a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Toyota Prius is an ideal choice for environmentally conscious drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and reliability. It's a worthwhile purchase, especially on the used market, if you're seeking a dependable and economical commuter car. Consider a well-maintained example with detailed service records and a healthy hybrid battery. Higher trims (Three, Four, Five) offer desirable features like a rearview camera and Bluetooth. Avoid examples with a history of excessive oil consumption or neglected maintenance. If maximum fuel savings and minimal running costs are your primary concerns, the 2012 Prius remains a smart and practical choice. However, those seeking sporty handling or the latest technology might want to explore alternatives.
Asif on December 19, 2024
I’m using Toyota last 30 year , and Toyota Prius sinceI’m using Toyota last 30 year , and Toyota Prius since 2012 . Face lot of problems regarding head light and back light and had replaced more than 50 bulbs. I am extremely unsatisfied.
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The Piper on March 12, 2024
Great car until weakest links start to failUpto 150k mls I never had a problem, except for the VERY tiny falsely advertised all-electric range as a Plug-in. I thought I was getting a car with 60 mile range, but had to acknowledge the salesman did mumble "12-15" miles in one part of our purchase. It never got 15 miles, held 12 miles for a week or two, then 10 miles for another week and stayed at about 9 miles range per charge ever since. The ABS light popped on one day and I suddenly only had less than half braking power! a quick replacement of 1 of 2 ABS pieces fixed the problem @$600 for the part(!!!) so the brakes work again but the light won't turn off unless both pieces are replaced, requiring another $600 part plus labor (grr). Next, when the gas engine is engaged the car hesitates and shakes when starting from a stop until some pressure line clears out (after slowly moving 500-1000 feet). If I open the hood and pop off the overflow bottle cap it relieves the pressure and the car will run normal until pressure builds again. Very dangerous if taking a turn at a light in traffic as the car will NOT stop sputtering until the line is cleared. I'm told it will require the equivalent of a very expensive head-gasket replacement to stop the pressure buildup, whereas common sense says a $3 pressure release cap for the bottle should work. But, Toyota won't acknowledge any fault of their own...Not sure I want to invest anymore as there is no replacement extended range battery for this car right now, and the battery is bound to go soon, too! Averaged 48 mpg, but $10,000 extra plug-in 12 mile range was not worth it-unless it got 50-60 mile range .
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SherryMI on December 29, 2020
Prius is the best car to ownThis car was purchased as a gift for my son to use to travel to his job out of town. He has a lease and I didn’t want him to rack up miles on his other car/lease. As a previous Prius owner, I know he would love another Prius to use daily. After this reliable vehicle is paid off, I plan to buy one for my other son and then a new one for myself! We love the hybrids in our family!
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Mekena on December 8, 2020
Toyota is always my favorable carI love it. It runs smooth and use gas effectively. My next car will be the same model with latest version. I have some suggestion to be improved
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Tom on November 21, 2020
Just what I wanted in a car.I had a 2004 and a 2007 Prius and this one is better. It is quieter, rides smoother, feels more solid and just seems more refined. I'm happy to have it.
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bill on October 12, 2020
Greatest car ever according to my sonMy son loves this car. he drives it to Lake Norman high School everyday. He highly recommends this car to anyone. This is what he says is the greatest car ever made. I purchased it for him on his 16th birthday, in 2018. It is absolutely incredible. He has never had an issue with it.
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IR on February 18, 2020
Most reliable car I ever ownedYou can’t find more reliable and affordable car than Toyota Prius. If you ge the full package the there is no car out there to bit that.
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ClareW on January 17, 2020
I Do Love The PriusI'm happy with the car. Runs well. In good shape for a used car. I do wish the Prius was higher and maybe a little heavier. But for it's size, it's amazing what I can all fit into it and ya gotta love an average of 45-47 mpg. I traded-in a Prius for this Prius and would do it again. But don't expect that to be necessary for a while - they last.
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ksenior on November 12, 2019
Toyota Prius has best gas mileage ever!Best car I ever bought, smooth handling, nice ride, very comfortable and best gas mileage ever!!! Also very stylish and fun to drive, used to spend $800 a month in gas when gas prices where at $5 a gallon but I only spent $200 commuting 105 miles per day at $5 a gallon.
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Lynne on November 10, 2019
Reliable, awesome mpgThe Prius C new is very reliable, surprisingly roomy, and has good cargo room with the rear seats down. It's great not to have to fill up the tank often.
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Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.