New Prius - everything you need to know
You may have noticed that we have introduced a Q&A section on toyota.co.uk.
This was partly inspired by the huge variation of questions raised by customers during the last few weeks. We also introduced a facility for customers to ask their own question, and these will be posted below, along with the answer from Toyota.
On 5 August 2009, we announced the introduction of the LED Technology pack option here. Check it out if you have any questions about this pack. For everything else, this is the place.
The following topics have already come up:
PRODUCT:
- Customisation: options, availability and costs (including audio; roof rack, cycle rack, towbar; leather)
- Difference between second-generation Prius and new third-generation Prius
- Wheel size
- Miles per gallon
- Satellite navigation
- Bluetooth and phone sync
TECHNOLOGY:
- How a full hybrid works
- Battery charging
- Battery lifespan and replacement
COMFORT:
- Heated seats
- Cold weather driving
MAINTENANCE:
- Servicing: frequency and costs
GENERAL:
- Delivery lead times
- Depreciation
- Warranty
- Road tax
- Insurance
Thanks for all the interest in the new Prius.
does the t spirit come with a DAB radio?
Mrs Smyth,
A DAB radio is not a standard feature, but is available as an optional accessory.
ordered 4 jan 2010; delayed?
when do Li ion batteries come in?
David,
Li-ion batteries are currently being tested but aren’t expected to go into production models for quite some time.
I am considering the New Prius as my next company car.
The pre-budget statement said that electric cars would be exempt.
Will this include the Prius?
The Prius is not solely electric, it is a hybrid, so it won’t qualify for electric vehicle exemptions.
However, as a company car as the employee you benefit from a low 10% benefit in kind on which you pay tax, and the company gets 100% relief against profits for tax.
Hi, I took delivery of my new Prius on Friday and I’m very pleased with it with the exception of not being able to connect my Samsung G600 using the bluetooth connection. Any idea why and what I can do to fix the problem ? Thanks.
Have you checked the bluetooth compatibility here:?
http://techdoc.toyota-europe.com/Bluetooth/search.aspx
Thanks Brian. Looks like I’ll have to get a new phone to go with my new car
I want to know I order my prius in december 2009, but is it too late now to fit the LED lights with dusk sensor or LED PACK
Safraz,
You should consult the dealer from where you purchased the vehicle for an accurate answer on this.
Hi, I have recently ordered Toyota Prius. 2009 Model. and the delivery date is first week of March
I want to know does this Model also has the same braking problems or gas pedal problems like what is happening with current new modes, as Toyata recalling lots of its cars in Japan???
Muhammad,
Look at the front page of the blog for latest information on this topic.
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/
what are the features? is their heated seats? does it have a cupholder? that sortastuff. because i am doing a review of it . thx laurax
How can you be doing a review of it if you don’t have access to one to be able to answer these questions yourself?!
Their is four cuphoders and two plastic bottle holders and all sortsastuff, Laura.
Your readers probably don’t need to know much more than that.
I thought it was 8 year warranty
Jane,
Looking at the website, I see:
Five Year Hybrid Powertrain warranty
Three year / 60,000 mile mechanical warranty
Three year unlimited mileage paint warranty
Twelve year unlimited mileage anti corrosion perforation warranty
Hope that helps.
I have seen on the internet, that there is a radar based cruise control. Is this available in the UK, and If (as I plan to ) order the T Spirit, is this standard ?
Thank you
Paul,
Adaptive Cruise Control is not available on any Prius models in the UK.
can I put cycle a cycle carrier on a 2010 Prius?
Yes, roof bar mounted (including Toyota branded) or boot mounted (currently only from third party manufacturers). See here http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7922 for more details
I have some winter tyres for my Corolla Verso and was wondering if they could be used on a Prius; tyre specs are Firestone Winterhawk2 205/55 R16. Thank you
Craig,
The Prius is available with 15″ or 17″ wheels, so i can’t really see a 16″ tyre being of much use to you.
Can anyone help. I took delivery of Prius T Spirit last Thursday. Did not notice until this morning that the “T Spirit” lettering grade is missing from the back of my car. All I have on the left hand side is the lettering “Toyota”. Rang the dealer and he said it should be there as it is factory fitted. Oh dear…quality control at its best. How can the dealer miss it in the PDI as well? Any Prius owner having similar issues??
Thanks
I was at the Dealership yesterday, and I understand that it is new policy to omit the model number on all models not just Prius. This is being done by other motor manufacturers as well.
Hi MK
See comments from Phil Shenton below (dated 3rd Feb)
Thanks Alan and John. Your replies have re-assured me of Toyota quality and piece of mind for me. Shame my dealer sale person haven’t a clue of the new badging policy.
Cheers
I’ve heard that “hybrids” are town cars and unsuitable for regular motorway use. I do 12-15000 mile pa inc 6-7000 motorway. Am I better going for a 2.0 Diesel? John
Your question is obviously subjective, so no-one can give a definitive answer. “Better” can be measured in so many ways. However, a number of Prius drivers on online communities who do a lot of motorway driving are more than happy with the results, not only in terms of efficiency but also the smooth, relaxing drive that the Prius is.
John,
I think you partially answered your own question. You clearly believe that motorway driving applies to no more than half of your mileage, so you do most of your distance on “urban” roads which are more suited to a hybrid.
With mostly motorway driving, my father in-law gets about 60mpg out of his.
just bought a prius can i drive it the police say i can’t cause of the problems that have been found and my insurance will not cover me
Hi Barbara
Please see this post.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) have categorically confirmed that “motor insurance policies will continue to cover Toyota owners affected by the recall of certain models”.
Well said Peter G.
I entirely agree with your comments and hopefully if other owners also take the trouble to add support the Press may begin to take a balanced view rather than supporting the mass hysteria that is being generated at the moment.
will a recall in uk happen for Prius brake pedal as requested in USA?
Hi Ray, please see this post which we have posted today. This is the latest information that we have - we hope to have some more next week.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do call Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388 744.
when will the front parking sensors be available for my Prius Spirit ?
Surely that’s a question for the dealer you ordered it from?!
Goodnesss! Your MD took a hammering on the Today Programme. In the interests of moderating the issue I’ve emailed this to them:
.
I have a 4 month old Prius. The issue with the brakes is that when decelerating gently, the car uses electric regenerative braking. On encountering a slippery patch, the car switches to mechanical anti lock braking. The driver feels a slight lurch and a change in brake pedal feel as this happens.
.
I found this slightly odd the first time it happened, but soon got used to it. It does not occur when braking hard because in that instance the car is using its mechanical brakes anyway. It does not affect the car’s overall stopping distance.
.
I’m not worried about having it fixed, and if offered a fix I would want to be reassured that the car’s ability to generate electricity from wasted braking energy is not compromised by earlier intervention of the mechanical brakes.
.
Peter Gledhill
Peter,
I was aware of this phenomenon well before I got my T3, basically the prius chat forums in US were buzzing heavily since January 09 regarding this topic. Also I agree with your view that this is something we can live with if regeneration capacity is compromised when fixed.
However, Toyota Motor Corp. spokeswoman Ririko Takeuchi’s admission that they discovered (and fixed) an issue with ABS makes me wonder whether there was another issue. Furthermore, during snow last month, I did notice that ABS was not as effective as it should be, certainly my parners 3 yr old nissan micra seem to be much better. So I think what we require is a proper clarification from Toyota UK regarding this.
I do however understand Toyota UK would be overwhelmed with support issues these days when every dick & harry who wanted to get at Toyota (for making superb cars like the Prius) seem to be making a big fuzz over the recall.
Thanks
Jay
Jay, as you say, it’s typical of modern journalism to give the hype but not the facts. I’ve read at least one article that says the problem is exactly as I’ve described, but others that are much less clear.
.
Performance in snow is probably not the best comparison of anti lock systems as snow introduces several confounding factors. I have to say that when braking hard, the Prius has the most powerful brakes of any vehicle I’ve driven.
Is there any news regarding the update of the navigation data on the new Prius?
Very interested in the PRIUS but very disapointed when I read that in EV MODE and with a fully charged battery is onlt 1.2 miles. Is there any method to increase this distance. Surely this is a priority city millage with zero immisions.A lovely car but to expensive reduce spefication alittle offer them as extras and I would buy one tomorrow
You need the new plug in prius which has just been released but only a limited number in the UK for evaluation.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/car-manufacturers/toyota/6833552/Toyota-Plug-In-Prius-review.html
Or you could get a gen2 prius and a third party after market conversion (for example)
http://www.reuk.co.uk/Amberjac-Plug-in-Prius.htm
Can you have CRUISE CONTROL fitted to a PRIUS T3 by a dealer and hoe much would it cost.
MR ROY ENOCH,
The Prius brochure states that cruise control is not available on the Prius T3.
Can you have CRUISE CONTROL fitted to a PRIUS T3 by a dealer and hoe much would it cost.
I am worry about the problems toyota is having and the braking problems on the prius
Hi Aston,
All the latest information on this can be found here. If you are worried, please call Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388 744.
is it 100% write down for Ltd Co
Yes, for tax purposes
Is there a choice of interior colour? If not, is the light grey and black combination shown in your website gallery the combination on offer? Is it possible to get a Spirit with 15@ wheels but without the solar sun roof? And is it possible to get dusk-sensing lights without buying the LED package? Thank you.
do I need to contact my suplier about my prius Toyota !
Hi Norman,
Please see this post for the latest information we have. If you are in any way concerned, please call Toyota GB Customer Relations on 0800 1388 744.
Hi Melissa,
I am very keen to know your reply to part 1 of Stephane’s question regarding Toyota UK’s ETA on fixing Prius ABS issue.
Thanks!
Hi Melissa,
“Toyota Motor Corp. spokeswoman Ririko Takeuchi said Thursday that Toyota discovered there were design problems with the antilock brake system and corrected them for Prius models sold since late January, including those being shipped overseas.”
Which is a good news for new owners… but communication seems far far more evasive about retrofitting the fix to car affected… I know that the recall/customer relation department is very busy for the moment but do you have any ETA for a recall regarding this issue?
Now on something completly different, I noticed that UK T Spirit are currently delivered with (at least) GPS 2009/2010 Ver.1 and CDDB 01727. Any upgrade for earlier adopter stuck on 2008/2009 Ver.1 and CDDB 01029?
Also, while GPS update once/twice a year is totally acceptable, new CDs are released weekly and CDDB, by definition, is a very dynamic database. Any chance of Toyota release a self upgrade mechanism (via the Firewire port behind the screen, or a self burned DVD for example)?
Thanks,
Stephane
Hi Melissa,
Another question about the Toyota management of the ABS issue. Why Toyota denied any knowledge of the problem for so long, until pushed (hard) by US and Japan authorities, while in the background have developed and released a new ABS for car shipped from January…
It dents the trust relationship between customers and providers. Cars are full of electronics, codes have bugs, problem happens. We all know that, and I don’t have any problem with it as long as my provider tell me (regularly) “We found that issue, fix released, come and upgrade”. What we need to re-establish trust is transparency not denial… (Just my two cents)
As part of the TV news reporting of the recall on several Toyota models as a result of instances of accelerator sticking mention was also made of a potential brake problem with the Prius. Can you confirm that this is the case, if so which models are involved and if I need to take my car to the dealer immediately for a check of the braking system?
Has anyone else noticed that in Toyota’s latest TV advert it’s a case of “don’t do as Toyota does, do as Toyota says”. The Prius shown in the advert has both the solar roof AND alloy wheels, something that Toyota says is not recommended!!
Having now done over 3000 miles in my Prius, I’ve managed to quieten most of the rattles and other unwanted noises. Fuel consumption is c.58 mpg overall and is usually better in “normal” mode than economy (by anything up to 2 mpg) which, in turn, is better than using the cruise control (when conditions permit), again by another 2 mpg or so (based on averages from multiple similar journeys over the same route).
Are you sure the alloys were the 17 inch ones? Even the 15 inch wheels provided on Tspirit with solar roof (and the T3) are alloy under the plastic covers. Maybe they took them off for the advert?
can roof bars and a load be carried on the prius please?
Yes! This has been covered already on this blog, if you use CTRL+F. There are official Toyota bars, and if not already available for the new Prius no doubt the manufacturers of generic bars available in Halfords, etc will soon have fittings suitable for the 3rd Gen as they did for the 2nd.
Can rear parking sensors be added to a T Spirit by the dealer after delivery.
Graham
They are a dealer fit item anyway, so I’m sure the answer will be yes
Thanks Brian
Or you could look at third party fitted sensors. Or fit your own if you feel confident. These have been mentioned on the toyota owners club forums
http://www.parkingdynamics.co.uk/
Hi Graham
Yes. it will be fitted by the dealer. I finally collected my T-Spirit this afternoon. Got the reverse drive beeping to one quick beep and once near an object, the parking sensor takes over.
accelerator problem. what is status?
Hi, please see our Recall Page for the latest news. You can leave your details with us on the page and we will then contact you by email. We will let you know at the earliest possible opportunity if your vehicle is affected.
The new prius doesn’t have an accelerator problem.
Your question
What is the max speed of this car (Toyota new prius)
Already referred to on this thread more than once - CTRL F is your friend!
(112 mph is the answer)
Your question
What is the max speed of this car (Toyota new prius)
Finally collected my new prius T spirit with the a moon roof after waiting 6 months. Noticed no model badge on the tailagte, Reported to the dealer who said Toyota no longer fit the Model badge. Thought this was strange but would like confirmation of this new policy.
+
I need a conformity certificate for my Pruis to renew my Alternative Fuel dicount with TfL. I seem to remember being abl to donwload it last time. What is the simpest way of getting one please?
What weght can the car carry? 4 adults plus 4 golf bags and small bags of clothes will fit in space but will combined weight be too much?
Peter
When we go camping we have 2 adults, 2 children, back seat and boot stuffed as full as possible, loaded roof box and bike rack strapped to the back with 4 bikes. It takes a bit more energy to get & keep the car moving(!) but it still copes fine with motorways, hills, etc. Admittedly we haven’t done it with the new 3rd gen Prius yet, but did a number of times with the 2nd gen.
Thanks Brian, your assurance welcome.Peter
Do you have hybrid cars in small sizes?
Sayyid
I believe that a hybrid Auris was unveiled stateside last month, expected to be available in the UK around the end of the year?
what is the max towing weight of the prius? and how suitable to tow trailer tent mgw 1000kg ,thanks d harrison.
Hi David,
As posted several times already (Ctrl+F does miracle!), the Prius has no towing option.
I have a recommendation for the next generation Prius.
I’ve found a minor but annoying design fault in the rear window wiper. It’s snowing here in Scotland at the moment and when I wipe my rear window it just pushes the snow down onto my back spoiler blocking my rear vision. If the wiper moved from bottom to top instead of top to bottom the snow would be wiped completely off the vehicle.
Hello,
Due to the likelihood of car tax increases I am toying with replacing my 10 year old Corrola which has never let me down
with a Prius, which in body shape is the spiritual successor.
My budget won’t stretch to a new one, so I am thinking of one around 3 - 4 years old. The intelligent Park Assist is something that impresses me and I am aware that it was standard on 2007 and later T-spirit models. I am also aware that it was an option for 2006 T-Spirit models. Unfortunately there seem few around where the original purchaser selected this option. I see that the question was asked on 24 January 2010, but no answer has been forthcoming, so I’ll ask again, is it possible to retrofit IPA please?
Hi John, according to our Technical Department it is possible. However, they warn that the total cost of adding IPA may be prohibitive. You may be better off seeking a car with IPA already fitted - although I do understand they are hard to come by.
Thanks for this - so I take it that means more than the £400 for the option when new?
In many cases the jump in price between 2006 and 2007 models puts the latter over my budget - probably because of IPA. I am in no immediate hurry and just plan to keep looking until the right car comes up. Hopefully those planning to upgrade their Prius in March won’t be put of by what seems to me overhyped negative press coverage regarding seems to be a software glitch, meaning increased choice for me
What is the annual road tax?
Hi,
The road tax is zero, nada, nothing!
could you please give me a price for th Prius T Spirit with solar roof for export to North Cyprus, will not be driven in UK, thank you.
what is the BIK value for the Prius at the 20% tax band please?
Steve
The BIK will be 10% of the list price of the relevant model, including whatever extras are fitted.
For a 20% taxpayer the tax cost will therefore be 2% of the total list price.
And of course an employer would, under current legislation, be entitled to a 100% tax allowance on the purchase of a new Prius. The same applies to a Sole Trader.
In reality a sole trader is unlikely to get 100% tax relief, because there will nearly always be a restriction for private use of the car. Only if they could show that they never used it for private purposes would they get 100% relief.
Having said that, they will still get a business use proportion of 100%, rather than a business use proportion of 20% or 10% which would be the case for most cars in the year of purchase
I have a caravan weight 1104kg would this vehicle tow it legally
Legally, not a problem. Mechanically, there are major issues; the Prius can’t tow.
This thread is getting a bit unwieldy, but if you press CTRL+F then type “tow”, your browser’s search function will reveal the previous 52 references to the word
Pete
I got 52 plate toyota Prius which I can’t get it started I think HV battery needs recharging. Can it b recharged or do I have replace HV battery. What would you suggest could go wrong???
Thx..
Javed,
The high voltage battery should be recharged during normal driving. Consult with your local dealer if you feel you have any specific technical issues.
Ben
This raised a question in my mind. If the HV battery is “flat” can the car be “started” using the conventional 12v battery so that the car can move and then start to recharge the HV battery ? Or does everything revolve around the HV battery ?
Graham
it is true that after 100 000miles the batery must be replace for new ?
No. It isn’t true.
What is the boot capacity in litres ?
If you keep reading through this thread, you will soon find the answer (and many others!!).
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7971
we have seen a futureistic new shape prius on the internet
when will it be avilable?????
are you able to tow a trailer with the hybrid, and if so what is the towing wieght limit.
No. Use your browser to search this thread for ” towbar” for more reasons
Can I purchase mud flaps for my 2010 Prius and get them shipped to the U.S.A.? Toyota does not stock or sell them here. Many thanks!
Check this thread on the Prius chat forum where you can find some information…
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-accessories-modifications/67338-2010-prius-mud-flaps.html
Does the T4 Prius have only 1 reversing light or has one broke?
Yes, just one reversing lamp - and just one rear fog lamp.
2nd gen had two of each - a regrettable cheapening of the Prius!
Crash tested?
.
Well, not sure if I’m the first to try out the Gen3’s crumple zones, but yesterday, I was following a large van at about 30mph when the van braked sharply, then immediately put his reversing light on and reversed briskly in to the front of my Prius.
I later learned he was collecting charity clothing bags that people leave on their doorsteps. He was driving along looking at doorsteps, and had spotted a bag, overshot, and then reversed to be in the right place to pick it up, having not noticed I was behind him. The driver is a gentleman who doesn’t speak English and has only been in the country for a few weeks. His boss tells me that he says I drove in to him, so the insurance claim is going to be messy, but I do have a witness, a man who would have been stepping out to cross the road if my Prius hadn’t been in his way.
Back to the Prius- I didn’t feel a thing- the front bumper absorbed the entire impact of a large van dong 5mph. The van’s rigid steel bumper was undamaged. It hit the Prius across the grille, just above the main part of the Prius bumper structure, but despite this the damage was contained in the front plastic moulding. No lights were broken, the bonnet still opens and shuts. the headlamp beams appear to be still more or less aligned.
It seems the brochure’s claim that the car is designed for minor collisions to be easily repairable is true, although North Herts Toyota are preparing an estimate at this moment, so I’l let you know what transpires
Pete
£840.48… It could have been worse!
Sorry to hear about your prang Peter!
Do you have a list of mibiles that are compatable with the Prius T Spirit navigation system?
Jean,
This should answer your question.
http://techdoc.toyota-europe.com/Bluetooth/search.aspx
can you get this on motability/
Phill
Try CTRL+F then “motability” - you’ll find that this question has been answered a couple of times already on here
Is it OK to buy a Prius at this time - Several other Toyota modals have been recalled.
Hi there,
Although a number of models have been recalled in the USA, the UK models affected have not yet been confirmed. We will post further information when it becomes available. For the official Toyota GB statement, please read this post.
I believe that the problems affect models manufactured in the USA and Europe. All UK Prius are currently built in Japan.
As environmental impact is almost soley measured by CO2 emission, what is the total CO2 produced by the production of a car like this? Disposale of a car like this must be hard without causing damage. Please could you let me know why I should buy one of these rather than a secod hand audi a3 1.9 tdi 110.
As I understand it the car has been designed so that as much of it as possible can re reused/recycled at the end of its life. There is probably something explaining this on the Toyota website. Also a lot of the internal plastic on the new model is recycled rather than new, reducing oil consumption.
The Prius is built at the Toyota eco-factory in Japan.
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/prius-tsutsumi-eco-factory
Also check out the myth buster topic over at Prius chat..
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-prius-main-forum/26050-prius-myths-their-rebuttals.html
what is price of roof rack system for Prius 3 and how is it fitted/removed?
Check with your dealer. Mine quoted £200.
There are brackets that fit inside the top of the door frames and are tightened with a special hexagonal key.
You have confiremd that a tow bar cannot be fitted. Can a bike racks be fitted to the back? or only the roof
Robert
See here: http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7922
Can you put a roof rack and cycle holder on the roof?
Yes, in fact anything you can fit to roofbars!
We have just ordered a Prius T Spirit and want to know if Digital Radio is standard, dealer fit option or factory fit only and how much please?
Regards
Anil
Assuming that you mean DAB radio, it is a dealer fit option
As for how much, the fitting cost will vary between dealers, so ask your dealer (you would have probably been better off asking before you placed your order!)
I understand that there is no towbar available at the moment. Is this situation going to change.
I am looking at the prius as a company car dur to the low Co2, does it qualify at 10%
Robert
It is highly unlikely that will change with the current model, since it is the drive/control system that prevents the Prius from towing.
On the company car side it is most definitely within the 10% band, and is likely to remain so for the life of the car, even if the band gets lowered. The threshold for 10% charge is currently 120g/km, new Prius 89 or 92g/km depending upon model!
Do Prius owners need to be concern regarding the recall of the accelerators?
Hi MK,
We’ve posted all the info we have here - we’ll update the blog just as soon as we have more.
On Prius Chat, the USA recall has not included any prius models. Seeing how UK prius are made in Japan like the USA ones, it is possible there will be no Prius recall here either. Watch out for official UK information from Toyota.
Prius Chat topic here…
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-main-forum
/75056-latest-toyota-recall-includes-no-prius-models.html
Is the new Prius ‘Plug in” available to buy? I saw one in the Westminster car scheme
Susanne,
Not yet!
What is the luggage capacity in Litres (i can only find dimensions) so I can compare to other brands
Colin
According to my brochure, it’s 446l, 1120l with the rear seats folded down
However these figures in the brochure refer to the luggage capacity up to the roof - so the rear window would be obscured…
Could you please tell me more than your given data does about the Atkinson Cycle engine is?
Have a look at http://www.hybridsynergydrive.com and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atkinson_cycle.
Briefly, it’s a petrol engine whose inlet valve stays open until half way up the compression stroke, which effectively gives an expansion ratio larger than the compression ratio.
Compared to a conventional petrol engine, it is less powerful for a given capacity, but with greater efficiency which approaches that of a diesel engine. Atkinson engines have very poor low speed torque, which is why they never caught on until paired with an electric motor to fill the gap in their torque curve.
It was invented by James Atkinson, from Hampstead, in 1882.
What are the company car tax rates for the Prius T Spirit for the next few tax years (based on latest government budget information)? Does it stay at 10% or rise to 15% in 2011/2012? Thanks.
It will continue to be 10%, based upon CO2 emissions of below 120g/km
what capital allowances\annual investment allowance is available
on a toyota hilux hybrid pick-up?
I don’t think there is such a thing yet, is there Stewart?
What are the peronal tax implications if provided as a company car?
Peter
Scroll down to here:
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7867
There is alot of technology in this Prius. What if a breakdown. How reliable is it?
Peter
There have been very few, if any, complaints about reliability on the Prius-UK yahoogroup, and in the JD Power UK Customer Satisfaction Survey the Prius came first overall in 2007 and 2008, and second overall and top in the ‘upper-medium’ size category in 2009.
So the short answer is probably “very”!
Where are the cruise control buttons on the Prius T Spirit?
On a satellite on the lower right of the steering wheel (about 30 deg below wiper controls)
Hi
We have a 2007 Prius and are thinking of buying a roof box-could you tell my the height of the car and roof box together to see whether we will be charged extra to travel through Eurotunnel .
Thanks
Sam
That’s going to depend upon the height of the roof bars and the roof box that you have/get! If it’s important though then you should use that as part of your criteria in researching which box to get.
If you need roof bars for a 2007 Prius then I have some second hand Toyota branded ones…. halfords also sell generic ones with fittings for the 2nd gen Prius.
Hi everyone,
Sorry we’re a little behind in replying to you all - it’s been busy here at Toyota HQ. I’m going to try to get back to as many of you as possible today.
Thanks for your patience.
What is the company car tax
see Ano’s question two below yours!
Sorry, I meant “Ano, see Paul Ellis’ post two below yours!”!
what type of fuel
unleaded petrol
Company car tax details
10% benefit in kind (and full 100% capital allowances in the first year for the employer)
I’m interested in the Prius T-Spirit model but not sure whether I need the optional ipod dock. without the ipod dock how does music get loaded onto the hard disk drive? Is there a usb port somewhere?
Hi Phil,
iPod integration kit (which I think is what you may mean by ‘dock’) or not, the only way to get songs onto the HDD is by transferring them from CDs in the CD drive. USB ports are only built in on the T Spirit if the iPod integration kit is ordered as a factory-fit accessory, but as I say, you can’t transfer music to the HDD via USB.
The iPod integration kit’s functionality is to allow you to control your iPod via the steering wheel controls and, if applicable (as it is in your case), the navigation screen. The iPod will play through your speakers; no music is transferred. If all you want is to be able to play the iPod through your speakers (i.e. you don’t mind not having steering wheel and screen integration), all Prius grades have an aux jack as standard that you can use to connect your iPod.
I hope that clarifies things, but feel free to get in touch again if not.
Is it possible to add bluethoot, SatNav and iPod deck on Prius T3 model and what is the additional cost per item?
Thank you.
These weren’t an option on my T3. The T3 doesn’t have many options at all. You need to get a T4 at least for bluetooth. Have you tried the main toyota uk website for the options on a prius?
http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/generic_editorial.jsp?navRoot=toyota_1024_root&edname=PS3_Home&catname=%2ftoyota_1024_root%2fmain_nav%2fpageTopNav%2fZone+NG+Prius&menuid=9582&zone=Zone+NG+Prius&id=MSR_PRIUS
Thanks Alan, but that link won’t necessarily work. Lara, just go to toyota.co.uk/prius and then click ‘Equipment’ at the bottom. Your dealer will have a list of all the prices.
Also, the iPod integration kit should be available as a option for the T3.
DAB Radio with Prius.
The Prius \brochure says you can enhance your toyota radio to receive DAB broadcasts, but the configurator and price list do not list this as an option
It’s a dealer fit option. Although the European Toyota site has a full online configurator, on the UK one it only includes the main options, not all the dealer fit options.
The button on the T-Spirit’s radio that is labelled “AM-DAB” sits facing you as you drive. The fact that it doesn’t actually activate DAB reception unless you have paid extra to have the dealer fit DAB receiver is a bit annoying.
what are the fuel economies for Prius and Avensis in mpg please
Hi there,
The figure for Prius is 72.4mpg, and for the Avensis it is 43.5mpg. To compare other aspects of these cars (and others), you can use the Toyota Comparison Calculator.
Hello,
I recently purchased a 2006 T-Spirit Prius (GJ06WDT) and I had hoped that I would be getting the Intelligent Parking Assist but sadly after purchase I realised I only have sensors. Is it possible to retrofit the IPA kit? Where? At what cost please?
On a cold morning does the heater in the saloon work? Does the car have windscreen heaters and electric mirrors?
Yes on all counts Ken. It also has heated wing mirrors.
I have an automatic Aygo still less than two years old (by 4 weeks0 and twice within the last two months, not realising but now understanding, reading other queries, that my accelerator pedal stuck. Once in a town and just lately travelling down a 1 in 12 winding hill in Devon, car showed ‘5th gear’. The only way that I could slow down was to keep pumping the brakes.
If I take this in to the service dept can I be assured that this part (sealed unit) will be changed? If so, will I then be given a further warrenty on this?
I was q uite frightened by the whole experience and feel now quite unsafe in the car.
I only visit this site as a prospective Prius owner but I feel that I must reply…..
What you describe sounds like quite a serious fault, if it were my car I would get it to a garage as soon as I could.
Hi Brenda,
Thank you for getting in touch about your Aygo, and I’m sorry that you’ve had a frightening experience.
I’d like to refer you to Toyota’s Customer Relations department. Please call them on 01737 367 600 and tell them that you’ve come via the blog. They will be able to answer your questions on the parts and warranty.
What percentage of the time does the prirus run on the electric motor?
Thank You
William
William
That is impossible to answer because it constantly changes, depending upon driving style, terrain, journey speed/acceleration/deceleration and state of charge of the battery.
Hi William,
Brian is right in that there is no specified proportion of time that is spent driving using the electric motor. You can opt to drive using only the electric motor (EV mode), but you can’t drive like this for long stretches: the battery provides you with enough charge to drive up to 1.2 miles at a maximum speed of 31mph, and to recharge this battery you must switch out of EV mode and drive using the engine again. The percentage of time you are able to drive using the motor, then, varies depending on driving style and all the other factors Brian listed.
I hope that answers your question and isn’t too confusing. Let us know if you need any further detail or clarification.
hi,
taking deivery of Tspirit on friday
in econamy mode at roud about or junction, will it be SLOW to pick up acceleration or perhaps slow to react. Thus a differant driving attetude. Would appreciate an honest answear to this .
Regards John
The ECO and PWR buttons do affect the response of the accelerator. I suggest start driving in normal mode (PWR and ECO off) to get used to the Prius. You will find acceleration fine. You can then experiment with ECO later if you so wish. If you floor the accelerator, you will get full acceleration regardless of which mode you are in. The Prius is pretty economical in any mode so you don’t need to do everything in ECO. Some USA posters have discovered that PWR mode can give more mpg than ECO mode in the right conditions.
Agreed. My peculiar work routine involves about a dozen journeys of half to one mile per day. The car insists on running the engine’s warm up cycle for each, even if I try to do the shorter hops in EV mode. PWR mode gives me better economy figures than ECO. I think this is because the extra load on the engine allows it to warm up more quickly, so it can then switch off and complete a greater proportion of the remaining distance on electric power
Pete
Is it free to use in congestion zone and road tax,how much
Hi Alick,
Both are free! However, in order to avoid paying the Congestion Charge you do have to register for an Alternative Fuel Discount via the TFL website. This costs £10 a year.
This car doesn’t have any gears, so how do you change from forward to reverse?
Hi Ken,
Sorry for the small delay. Prius is, in this respect, like a standard automatic: there is a ‘gearstick’ with Drive and Reverse positions.
The “gearstick”, doesn’t change any gears, it’s actually a switch. The car reverses simply by sending a reversed current to its main electric motor/generator. The petrol engine is unable to apply drive directly when reversing, although if the battery is flat, the petrol engine will run the second motor/generator to produce electricity.
If you put your foot down, the car silently whooshes backwards very briskly!!
how to open the boot of toyota prius t spirit?
Hi Reena,
I’m not sure - perhaps a current owner would be able to help?
If not, I’ll have a chat to the product team and find out for you tomorrow.
Above the number plate, under the lip is a button which you press to open the boot. Car has to be unlocked first. If you have the full SKS system, you can unlock the car from the boot too otherwise you have to use the keyfob (or drivers door).
Brilliant - thanks Alan.
how fast can you go in mph before the petrol is used as the source of fuel
Hi Naveed,
Although you can only go up to 31mph on battery power alone, the only limit to how fast you can go using the engine is the top speed of the car, which is 112mph. You should be able to drive 715 miles on one tank.
715 miles on a tank of fuel.
has anybody managed to achieve anything near that? my best was 505 when the final block on the fuel gauge started blinking. Computer MPG was 69
When the last bar starts flashing, I have managed to do a further 50 miles before chickening out and filling up. There is usually still some fuel left in the tank. If you have nerves of steel (or a spare tank of gas), you could try for a 100 miles on the flashing bar although running out of fuel is not recommended.
Alan,
From experience (as I had to have my fuel tank drained to satisfy Toyota whilst looking int o my engine miss firing) I can confirm that the flashing light starts when there is 10 liters in the tank, who would drive much further once the warning blinks start?
My 505 miles at 65 MPG was on a long trip to Germany, all motorway driving, I got 37 Liters in the tank and the computer read 68.9 MPG. my last 25 miles was on flashing fuel gauge.
Note. You won’t get 715 miles from a tank at 112mph! You can get 500 miles from a tank at 60-70 mph and going easy on the throttle.
Does the new Prius still have the “handbrake” in a position to be operated with the foot? Does it have “hill start assist”?
Hi Lyndon,
Yes - new Prius has both a foot-operated ‘handbrake’ and the Hill Start Assist function.
Do you have a car swapping scheme with this car
Unfortunately not, Chris. Here’s some more about Toyota Swappage.
I currently own a 2007 prius and my only disappointment was no heated wing mirrors otherwise the car is perfect and I will be upgrading to the new model at the end of the year. Does this have heated wing mirrors?
Hi Geoff,
I’m happy to report that the third-generation Prius does indeed feature heated wing mirrors.
If you’ve any other questions about your perfect car, please let us know!
I NEED TO FIND OUT THAT CAN ALL GARAGES REPAIR PRIUS HYBRID IF YES DO THEY NEED ANY SPECIAL EQIPMENT OR IS IT DEALERS ONLY HOW MUCH A FULL SERVICE WILL COST APPROX.
Hi Narinder,
This depends on what you need repairing. If in doubt, I would visit an official Toyota Centre. I’m afraid I can’t give you an indication of how much a full service costs as it varies Centre by Centre.
Can the Intelligent Parking Assist on the Prius be used at night or inside a multi-storey car park? What view would the rear camera give in such conditions?
Hi Geoff,
Brilliant question. I’ll look into it and get back to you.
The camera gives a very good image with the light from the reversing lamp. This being the case, the automatic parking function would probably work but I haven’t tried it.
is the new prius available in manual as well as automatic?
No, because technically it isn’t automatic anyway.
‘Normal’ cars have a series of fixed gears, usually 4 or 5, that can be changed between either under the control of the driver (manual) or of the car in accordance with predetermined criteria (automatic). In both those cases it is changing between fixed gear ratios.
The Prius does not have fixed gear ratios, it has “continuously variable transmission” - that means that there is no changing of gears to do, whether manually or automatically. it is a result of the hybrid drive having three components connected together - engine, wheels and motor/generator(s), whereas conventional drive systems just have the first two. The combination of all three, and the fact that the motor/generator(s) can rotate in either direction to send energy to or from the batteries, is what gives such flexibility and negates the need for fixed gear ratios. There are animations on the internet which show the sun/moon/planets gear system in action.
As a consequence there is continuous acceleration throughout the speed range of the car, particularly useful when tackling steep hills.
I thought I’d re-submit this as it seems to be have been hopped over ”Seeing as in 2011 , daytime running lights and Tyre pressure monitoriny systems will be mandatory , when will these facility become standard on the new Prius .”
Many Thanks
Paul
Reply Seeing as in 2011 , daytime running lights will made mandatory Also Tyre pressure monitoriny systems mandate is also just round the corner , when will these facility become standard on the new Prius .
Many Thanks
Paul
Reply Seeing as in 2011 , daytime running lights will made mandatory Also Tyre pressure monitoriny systems mandate is also just round the corner , when will these facility become standard on the new Prius .
Many Thanks
Paul
Reply
The new Prius has TPMS and DRL in countries where this is mandatory. It’s not mandatory here so they aren’t an option.
That was not what I asked , I asked when these features would be available in the uk ..like a bit more specific than …’when it becomes mandatory ‘is it in the next couple of months or the end of the year or in 2011 even ?
Hi Paul,
Sorry I haven’t been able to answer your question yet - don’t worry, you haven’t been forgotten about.
I’ll have a look into this for you and get back to you as soon as I can.
How long before the driving batteries need replacing and how much?
Hi Michael,
The hybrid battery should not need replacing. If it does need to be replaced, the cost is £736.38 (ex. VAT and fitting). It’s also covered by a five-year warranty.
What can I do about those ghastly T3 plastic wheel covers ?
Take them off! There are alloys underneath. See pic of my T3 with covers off. http://www.fuelly.com/driver/johalareewi/prius
Hi Alan
I take it that that photo is the one of the T3 in the snow ?
I cannot see the wheels up close and they do not look like standard alloys.
Could you - or anybody - send me a closeup picture of a T3 15″ alloy without the orrible plastic covers ?
Some on the Prius Chat forum
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-accessories-modifications/72309-without-wheel-covers-high-res-comparo-photos.html
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-main-forum/62096-15-alloy-wheels-w-center-caps.html
I have just bought a new Prius tSpirit. I occasionally want to carry bikes - where can I get a a bike carrier for it?
Halfords, or a cycle shop? I have had 2 boot mounted racks on my 2nd gen Prius, and although I haven’t tried fitting to the new one yet the shape is very similar so don’t anticipate any problems
Hi Russell,
Thanks for the question, and congratulations on your new purchase! Sorry for the delay in replying.
All rear-mounted Toyota bike racks are mounted on a tow bar, and Prius does not have the capacity to tow. However, you’ll still be able to carry bikes on your T Spirit: there is a bike holder that fits onto the roof rack. I’ll be able to come back to you with the part number later this week, but your dealer should be able to help you out, too.
Hi Russell
What Michelle says about rear mounted racks is incorrect. There are racks that strap onto the boot, for example this: http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_251011_langId_-1_categoryId_165515 and this: http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_251011_langId_-1_categoryId_165515
(assuming that those links work)
I had the Halfords one on a 2nd generation Prius, and now have a 4-bike boot mounted rack (which I haven’t yet tried on the 3rd gen Prius, but was fine on the second and they are very adaptable so there shouldn’t be any problems).
What you need to be aware of on these is obstructing the rear lights & number plate, since as has been noted somewhere else on this blog the Prius is not wired for an external lighting board (and I don’t think it can be).
Oops, I posted the same link twice - the second one should have been http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_751003_langId_-1_categoryId_165515
Brian (and Russell),
I assure you that I’m perfectly correct in stating that no Toyota-manufactured rear-mounted bike racks are suitable for Prius. Toyota is of course unable to comment on or endorse any third party’s offering. As I said previously, there is a bike carrier that mounts onto a roof rack, both of which were designed and built specifically for the third-generation Prius and both of which are currently available.
True, but Russell’s question was about suitable bike carriers, not just Toyota branded ones!
Hi.
About to order a Prius T Spirit… could you please tell me whether they come with floor mats and mud flaps?! Can’t see anything on the site.
Thanks.
Jon
They are accessories and are not supplied as standard. Haggle with your dealer if you want some (or pay list price).
Hi best to barter, had mine fitted as part of the deal, they are not cheap if you have to buy them. You could buy the mudflaps and fit them yourself. worth a haggle
Hi Melissa.
Can your tech team confirm which oil dealers should be using for a Gen3 Prius oil change? The owners manual says 0W-20 but there are reports that some dealers are using the cheaper and more easily available 5W-30 oil. Will this invalidate the warranty? Should dealers be using the oil specified in the owners manual? See also http://toyotaownersclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=105613
Hi Alan,
Someone asked a similar question on the blog a few months ago, and a discussion on oil followed. Click here to read it. The short answer is: don’t worry, you’ll be fine using 5W-30!
Interesting posts. But the owners manual says “If SAE 0W-20 oil is not available, SAE 5W-30 oil may be used. However, it should be replaced with SAE 0W-20 at the next oil change.” Does this mean I should ask the dealer to use 0W-20 oil if they can?
Hi again Alan,
Going by the manual and the information provided by the technical team (given in the thread I linked to): yes, I’d use 0W-20 if it’s possible.
Melissasd,
Why “If possible”?
The manual clearly states that 0W20 should be used and if not then it must be replaced at the next service.
If the dealer uses other oil on the annual service then are we allowed to return and have a full oil change free of charge?
Surely all dealers should be using correct oil and there should be no additional charge (I have read that some dealers are charging more for the correct oil to be used). Otherwise, we could be talking about invalidating warranty.
Some good, valid questions there, Kev. I will double-check and come back to you on these.
I said ‘if it’s possible’ as Alan had said ‘if they can’. My meaning was, ‘Yes, do ask the dealer to use 0W-20 oil if they can’. Sorry this wasn’t clear.
Mellisa,
Any feedback on the question of what oil dealers should use on service (0W20 being stipulated in the handbook).
Presumably, any service costs should include the correct oil, incorrect oil could invalidate warrenty and the handbook states that incorrect oil should be replaced at the next service which I would assume,should not be at the owners expence as the dealer has not followed correct proceedures. Surely, we should not have to ask that the correct oil is used.
How much is it to pay monthly and for how many months?
How much is the deposit?
Hi Tori,
Please see the AccessToyota Finance Calculator on toyota.co.uk to get a quote. For more detail, the best thing for you to do is speak to a dealer. I hope that helps!
In the brochure for the new Prius the size of the luggage compartment with the rear seats up is given with it filled to the roof (446 litres)
What is the capacity of the luggage compartment when it is filled to the level of the luggage compartment cover i.e. without the luggage obscuring the rear window?
Good question, Robert - I’ll find out for you.
Why do the MPG figures differ from those quoted for the same vehicle in the United States -
US Figures MPG: 48 mpg Hwy, 51 mpg City
UK 72.43 mpg
Please explain the very large difference
Ivor
Hi Ivor,
The answer’s actually very simple: it’s because the test criteria in the US are different. I can’t speak for Toyota Motor Sales in the USA, but I can confirm that 72.4mpg is the correct figure in the UK.
The real answer is that UK gallons are bigger than US gallons so you can go more miles on a UK gallon than a US one.
Actually both of the above answers are correct !
Hi Ivor,
The main reason is that an US gallon is not an Imperial (UK) gallon.
The UK one is 4.55 litre and the US only 3.78 litre. So obviously you make less mileage (with less petrol…)
1.200 949 925 5 gallon
I cannot seem to get much better than 60 mpg using the conversion maybe I am missing something - about 12 mpg at the moment - Maybe there is a difference in the length of an American mile to a UK mile - Please advise.
Ivor
Ivor
It is quite likely that the standard tests used to determine the consumption figures are also different.
Yes, 50 miles per US gallon is almost exactly 60mpg per Imperial Gallon. The US test methodology is also different, and in many people’s view, more akin to real world consumption. You have to drive very carefully indeed to get 72mpg, but 60 is a much more realistic target.
P
would like descriptions and prices of electric cars not kidies cars
I find search engines very useful http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_cars
Hi Gillian,
The Prius is a hybrid - that is to say, it uses a combination of electric power and a petrol engine. Currently, Toyota has no electric vehicles (EVs) that are available commercially, though concepts such as the FT-EV II exist. There’s also the plug-in Prius which can be charged by literally plugging it into an electricity supply, but it’s still a hybrid.
We’ll keep you updated on all hybrid- and EV-related news via this blog.
Hello
I cannot find the model name of your latest Prius on the website. Could you please tell me if it’s a 1.8vvti T-Spirit Hybrid CVT 09 ? thanks
The new 2010 prius has a 1.8 petrol engine where as the previous prius had a 1.4 engine so yes the one you mention is the new 2010 model (gen 3)
Hi Michelle,
That’s it, yes. The T Spirit is the grade of Prius - there are two other grades, the T3 and T4. All have 1.8l engines and CVT transmission.
Just to clarify: in the US, the current, third-generation Prius is known as the ‘2010 model year’ Prius. We prefer not to use this term because it tends to confuse (the car was released in 2009, not 2010), plus the US grades are different from the UK’s. Rest assured, all information you find on toyota.co.uk will be up-to-date and accurate, and refer to the latest Prius.
At last I am the proud owner of a new Prius, I picked up my TSpirit on Friday and so far, so very good. I have had a tinker with my iPhone 3GS and it connects via bluetooth with no problem and gives full access to telephone functions, including importing contacts with no difficulty at all. It also connects as a bluetooth player - you have to register it as a bluetooth music player through the audio setup menu (in addition to registering the phone on the telephone system) but it’s quite straightforward. Using the bluetooth connection for music, the car’s navigation/audio screen only allows play and pause interaction, but the sound quality is very good. Receiving a call disconnects the bluetooth player but making a call doesn’t (the system simply switches modes to return to music after the call finishes). Reconnecting the player is a simple press on the connect button on the bluetooth audio screen. If you were last listening to the iPhone as a music player and don’t switch the radio off, when you get back in the car the system switches on the iPhone’s iPod and starts playing so you open the door without a key, start the car without a key and get your music with your phone still in your pocket - it’s quite a trick.
Lucky you Martin…I am still waiting for my T-Spirit since August 09. I guess the long wait must be due to solar/led/protection packages added to it.My car should arrive at the dealer any time tomorrow as I was inform. Happy driving all.
If it’s any comfort mine was also ordered in August with solar and LED so you’re only a couple of days off the pace. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed…
Dear Toyota,
Am thinking about purchase of a Prius T spirit but may end up with very low usage if I have a knee replacement operation (I currently drive a manual) Will low use cause battery life problem ?
Need an automatic and always had the Prius on my wish list - but is it wise if it is not driven for a while if I end up having a knee operation. The problem is that I do not know how long it will be before the operation is needed and it might be 2 years away. So is low use in two years time with maybe stopped for 20 weeks going to do the battery in. Look forward to a speedy reply as I have a dealer waiting for me to place an order. Many thanks
george
I’m sure they recommended turning the engine on every week or 2 with the previous gen prius and I am not sure the current prius has the same recommendation. I would always have the car engine on for a few minutes every 2 weeks on the drive way.
Dear George
Nice to speak to you earlier. The response to your question comes from our Technical Team:
“If a New Generation Prius is left unused for 20 or 30 weeks, the 12V Battery will become discharged (flat), as any other vehicle’s 12V battery. A good practice would be to disconnect the 12V battery, provided that the vehicle is garaged in a secure location (as the vehicle’s alarm system will not work if the 12V battery is disconnected).”
I hope that gives you a clear answer?
Regarding your question on Auris HSD, this is an exciting development for us - not least because this is the first full Hybrid to be built in Europe. We can forward your more information (including engine details) as this becomes available towards the launch of the car?
Regards
Simon
I don’t know if this will help but I had this problem when I used to use a motorcycle during the summer months.
I used to just leave my car (Can I say XJ6) sitting on the drive.
Following a few flat batteries I fitted one of these dashboard trickle charge solar panels to keep things topped up.
Following an accident I went to use the car again this month…. It started first time - not bad after standing 7 months with alarm etc left switched on.
I will be fitting this to my new Prius so the 12v battery is kept topped up.
Hope this helps - good luck with the knee.
Paul F.
This will not work I am afraid as it seems the car cigarette lighter socket to which most solar chargers fit, is only active when ignition is on in the gen3 prius. I am contemplating checking with my dealership whether I can have the socket hard wired to battery as in most other cars.
Sorry didn’t make it clear, I’ve hard wired this solar panel to my last three cars without problems. Always make sure you have a in line fuse protecting the car/solar panel. If in doubt get an auto electrician to do it for you.
It even kept a bad battery topped up so is a winner for me.
Anyway just thought I would pass on something that works for me.
Can you please let me know the space available for transporting luggage in the Prius if some of the seats are removed.
Can you fit a tow bar to a prius T4?
I also would like to fit a tow bar, but you can’t, the car isn’t built to use one.
If you look through the previous posts you will see it explained in more detail
Am I correct in thinking that the built in Sat Nav comes as a standard ftting in the Spirit.
Can a Spirit be ordered without the Sat Nav?
Driving in snow? Going up slight hill car came to a stand still, could not spin wheels to get grip vsc. What does one do in this situation?
I do not understand your problem, we drove our (wife’s) Spirit all the time in the last snow/ice period and the car was superb driving between our home and office up and down hills, felt more like a 4 wheel drive…………..much better than my BMW 730d which is absolutely hopeless in the snow! My tip….just be gentle with her - just like the wife!!
Spinning your wheels in snow will just make the ice under the wheels more slippery! The Prius stops because traction control decides that it is unable to get any grip. Two possible approaches are: 1) turn the steering wheel from side to side whilst applying GENTLE power (putting the car in ECO mode helps!)
2) put some old car-mats under the front wheels!
Can the NiMH batteries be repaired or boosted in some way over time as my NiMH rechargeable batteries usually loose their storage ability after a certain number of recharges!
why has this Prius technology not been put into a diesel version?
Are the batteries chargeble
They are charged by the car when the engine is running.
For a full explanation go to the Toyota web site
when my car was returned by the dealer following a service my remote locking no longer worked although it works 100m up the road. Did something happen during the service ? Advice please. Thanks
Brenda,
Remote locking?
How did you get that?
Kev
Kev
It’s standard on all models, even the T3, and was on the 2nd generation also.
are we talking about the doors locking when you drive off?
I’ve had that in previous cars but never in my Gen 2 T4 or Gen 3 T Spirit
No, just locking with the remote control on the key fob
Regarding the sudden fault with my remote locking. It has solved itself. Last night and this morning it wouldn’t work when parked on my drive. Tonight when I returned from work it worked again. Strange but true !
Brenda
There was certainly an issue with 2nd gen Prius where interference from certain radio devices could prevent the remote locking from working. I had this happen a couple of times. One way that a number of people found to open it was to hold the remote fob at different places around the car while trying to unlock it, including under a wheel arch! Failing that the mechanical key, although very stiff, can be used to unlock the door, although (if it’s the same as the 2nd gen) the car needs to be started to reset the alarm.
Brenda, If your key fob lock does not work, it can sometimes be an indication that a door or the tailgate is not properly closed.
Alan
The key fob battery may be going flat- this problem usually presents itself with reduced range, intermittent operation, or a reluctance to work when the key has been in a cold place
Hi Mellisa,
Is there any chance of cleaning up the blog.
It is so difficult to fine original comments to track any answers
I would agree, but with a further suggestion.
I access this blog by using [http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know] I notice that it tells me that certain questions have been asked.
Why can’t we click on those headers to view those topics?
Howmany \prius ”make? Doe the petrol engine work aany time during a drive ?
Seeing as in 2011 , daytime running lights will made mandatory Also Tyre pressure monitoriny systems mandate is also just round the corner , when will these facility become standard on the new Prius .
Many Thanks
Paul
I am considering purchasing a Prius and want to know if the Blue tooth provided supports Blackberry blue tooth?
Hi Andrew,
I am thinking of upgrading to a Blackberry mobile and I tested one out on my Prius Bluetooth and it worked perfectly.
Transferred all of the contact date etc at the press of a button. So go ahead and get one.
I have aNew T Spirit Which Mobile telephones are compatable with the blue tooth connectivity please?
Bluetooth compatibility info is here:
http://techdoc.toyota-europe.com/Bluetooth/search.aspx
How does the Prius provide heat on a cold start-up slow/local journey of only a couple of miles in the kind of weather we have recently had?
The windscreen demist has a small electric heating element, but the main heat for the cabin is, like any other car, provided by hot water from the petrol engine’s cooling system. The petrol engine does switch on and warm itself up at the beginning of every journey (even if you don’t want it to, as when choosing to do a very short journey in EV mode). The engine has a few novel features to facilitate a quick warm up and retention of heat when running on electric power, so the heater provides warmth to the cabin faster than in many other cars.
P
petrol or diesel
has already been answered on this thread - Petrol
is this car avalible yet
Yes, since August 09
Forgive me if this has already been asked.I am interested in ordering a t-spirit prius and i understand that the solar roof can only be ordered in on 15”wheels and no spare . Why is Why is this and what would be the results of fitting 17” wheels after purchasing the car .
Thanks
Paul
Hi Paul,
This has already been asked, but not to worry at all! It’s a weight management issue: the solar roof weighs 25kg, which when combined with the 17″ wheels makes for a significantly heavier car. At this point the fuel consumption is affected. Consequently, Toyota does not recommend fitting 17″ wheels after purchase.
Can i get a USB/IPOD intgration kit for my T4 prius 2010 model and much does it cost me including fitting.
Will it work on T4 as it does not have atouch screen?
Will the integration kit allow me to control music on a USB stick from the steering wheel controls?
thanks
Hi Shanker,
Yes, the iPod integration kit is available for and compatible with all grades, whether or not you have a screen. I can’t tell you how much it will cost including fitting as the labour costs vary from Centre to Centre, but excluding fitting the cost is £138.90.
You will definitely be able to use the steering wheel controls using an iPod. I’m not 100% sure whether you can play music from a USB stick, but I will check this out for you. I know that music cannot be transferred to the HDD on a T Spirit via USB stick, but on a T4 this should be no issue.
I hope that’s clarified things. I’ll be back in touch about USB sticks soon.
how long do the batteries in a prius last and the cost to replace them?
James
See response to Hugh’s question here:
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7081
I own a 2010 Prius in UK bought few months back. I would like to add the dusk sensor feature to my car. Any suggestions please
Thanks
Hi Vasu,
Unfortunately the dusk-sensing headlights are only available as part of the LED Technology Pack which cannot be retrofitted. Sorry about this. Thanks for getting in touch.
I have a new Prius on order - a T4 Spirit. Is it front wheel drive, rear wheel drive or all wheel drive. I’ve rung the dealer and they just don’t seem to know. I can’t find any information in the brochures. Can you help?
Hi Peter,
I certainly can: all Prius grades are front-wheel drive. Sorry you’ve had trouble trying to find this out.
Are there any plans to re-introduce the previa into the UK?
I’m seeing plenty here in China but find no reference to them on your Web pages.
Regards
David Walker
Hi David,
Apologies for the late reply; I’ve been chasing down some info for you. I can tell you that there are currently no plans to reintroduce the Previa. The current UK model it is most similar to is Verso.
I hope to have some more information for you soon - do bear with me.
I WANT TO KNOW..THIS STEERING SYSTEM…WITH RACK.OR WIRE TIPE.OR .WIRE LESS..OTERWISE WHAT IS THE ADVANCED..SYSTEM
Hi Chamila,
There is a rack and pinion type steering gear assembly, plus vehicle speed sensing type electric power steering (EPS). This system assists your steering by generating assist torque using a power steering motor and a reduction mechanism. The EPS system only activates the power steering motor when you turn the steering wheel, thereby reducing energy consumption when driving straight, which in turn should improve your fuel economy.
The torque sensor, power steering motor and reduction mechanism are all in one compact structure, and the EPS system lacks the pipes, vane pump, pulley, and power steering fluid of hydraulic power steering systems. These mean the EPS system should prove very reliable and serviceable.
I hope that’s answered your question - let me know if I’ve misunderstood!
how efficient is heater in prolonged cold weather
I am about to purchase a second hand 2007 prius. I have had the car checked by the RAC and have been told that the service history has been lost from the car computer, likely secondary to the battery going flat. Can you tell me how to get the service history programmed in the car computer again, and how much, if anything, this might cost? THe paper copies of the service history are available; the car has always been serviced by toyota dealers.
Hi Sophia,
This is a very good question. I imagine that a Toyota dealer would be best placed to help you here - have you asked one? In the meantime I’ll look into this for you.
Does the new model prius have roof bar capability and if so would they be different to the last model as I have an 06 Prius at present
Hi again Ian,
Yes, the new Prius does have a roof rack option, but because the shape of the roof has been changed the rack for second-generation Prius will not fit a new car. The new roof rack costs £139.36 plus fitting.
Does the new model Prius have the option of a dog guard for the boot area
Hi Ian,
For this I would consult your local dealer - they will have full and up-to-date accessory lists.
Melissa
I saw on a US site that the Solat roof will only operate the fans above 65F ..about 18C ..is this this correct. (Summer seems a long way off)
regards
Is the new Prius the same length as the previous model
Hi Tony,
Yes, the new Prius is longer than the second-generation model - but only by one centimetre!
Please send details including photo of roof rack system for 2010 Prius
Thank you
i am starting a buisness up and was told if i buy a pruis, i could claim the whole amout back from the tax man due to 0 emmisions etc, is this true ?
No, not quite - that would mean that they were giving the car away to all businesses! You can claim 100% tax relief though, i.e. you can get relief for the full cost against taxable profits in the year of the expenditure. (As opposed to either 20% or 10% for most cars, depending upon emissions).
If the car buyer is a sole trader or a partnership there is potentially a much greater tax break that could actually pay for the car alongside the tax/NIC saving.
This tax break is called Working Tax Credits plus if applicable Child Tax Credits.
It all depends upon how much %age business use the car has and the overall business profit plus very importantly overall family circumstances.
Here’s a rough example. A couple have 2 children. The normal family income is £25,000 pa. Normally no tax credits except standard Child Tax Credit of £545 a year.
Spend £20k on a brand new (important: NOT s/hand) Prius. It gets used 75% for business and 25% for private use. So, £25,000 x 100% x 75% is deducted off the profit. This equals a £15,000 deduction off profit. So the £25,000 profit falls to £10,000. At this level of family income the total tax credits (WTC + CTC) entitlement is £8,155 -ie. £7,610 more than had they not bought the car. A quirk of the tax credit system is that if the next year’s family income is no higher than £25,000 more than this year that they buy the car, then *again* they get £8,155 of tax credits!
So, tax credits in total of £16,310 potentially available for buying a car for £20,000. And don’t forget the tax/NIC savings too, ie. 28% of £20,000 x 100% x 75% in this case, ie. £4,200 for just one year.
So in this example the business person (not a director, but rather a sole trader or partner) gets £4,200 off his/her tax bill one year plus extra £7,610 x 2 in tax credits off HMRC TCO. A total cash bebefit to the family of £20,510 - which, amazingly, is only £420 short of the cost of the car!
For more information (Tax Credit rate) see HMRC WTC2 booklet and advice along the above lines an acccountant who understands tax credits (NB. many qualified accountants don’t as its not part of their exam syllabus!).
NB. The figures will be very different for higher or lower income figures and
essentially Tax Credits are based on *the whole family* income. The Tax Credits I quote are *not* applicable to limited companies, but in perhaps a smaller scale could apply to the directors of a Ltd Co.
Information from the horse’s mouth is here: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2008/bn11.pdf If self employed or a company purchase, buying a Prius reduces your taxable income by the cost of the car x percentage business use, in the year of purchase, so for a 40% tax payer, a £20,000 Prius will knock £8,000 off this year’s tax liability if business use is 100%, or £6,000 if 75%.
As David has pointed out, the benefits may be even greater if buying a Prius pushes your taxable income down to the level where you qualify for child tax credit.
The other group that will score heavily from next April is people earning just over £113.000. As well as paying 40%, the six and a half thousand pound personal allowance is taken away on a sliding scale between £100,000 and £113,000, so using a Prius to reduce your taxable income from, say £114,000 to £99,000 would get your personal allowance back as well as the 40% tax relief.
P
Ignore the reference to company car purchase in Peter’s response above - treatment for company cars is very different for sole traders. The company can claim 100% deduction against its taxable profits, and the employee is taxed on the benefit of private use, valued at just 10% per annum of the list price of the car (most cars are between 15% & 45% based upon emissions).
For individuals the personal allowance recovery between £100,000 and £113,x00 means that the effective tax saving is 60%
Sorry not to be clear, for companies I was referring to the benefits for the company purchasing the vehicle, not for the company car driver.
P
The other group I forgot to mention is self employed people earning over £150,000. From April those poor people will be in the new 50% tax bracket, so for them buyng a Prius will attract 50% tax relief
Please send me a list of Bluetooth enabled phones that are available in UK and work with 2004 Prius. Are profiles other than A2DP and AVRCP utilized ?
Hi Eugene,
Because this concerns the second-generation Prius it’s a little harder to find out. Hopefully I’ll be able to get back to you soon.
how much is the car? and could you make it any cheaper?
Hi Shannon,
The price depends on the grade and options you choose. All Toyota Centres should have full lists of options and prices, but the T3 starts at £19,504.
With its full hybrid powertrain, the new Prius is one of the most technically advanced cars on the market. Even though Prius comes with high standard equipment levels, it is competively priced when compared to rival D-segment vehicles.
Running costs for Prius are low thanks to the high mpg, low CO2 emissions (meaning Prius has £0 road tax and is exempt from the London Congestion Charge), and low insurance grouping. Plus your maintenance costs would be low, too: the Hybrid Synergy Drive technology has proved to be reliable as well as advanced, with Prius having the lowest warranty claim level of any current Toyota model.
Do get back in touch if any of that is unclear, or if you have further questions.
Will these cars tow a trailer?
Hi Jan,
No, Prius cannot tow a trailer I’m afraid. For a explanation of why, please see this comment. Thanks.
Is the Prius 4 wheel drive pleae?
No, it’s front wheel drive.
No true if you are reversing.
What is the MPG around town??
That depends on a number of things, and similar questions been asked before on this thread - search for mpg. For a previous comment of mine see here: http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7244
Taking delivery of my new Prius 1.8 T-Spirit in Feb 2010.
Conflicting information from Toyota & Dealership. Does the T-Spirit have fitted as standard a USB connector for my Ipod classic or not.
In the centre console does it have a USB Aux socket or not, can this not be used for an Ipod or not.
Do I really have to spend 299.00p on a Ipod Interface kit or not, to work with the cars Sat Nav,Radio,Cd/HDD. YES or NO
Please help
Hi Charles, this isn’t going to be any help directly but Melissa may be able to follow things up. I have had a basic query unanswered since last August about what the ipod/iphone integration kit does and no-one has managed to answer, either here or at the dealership. I have cancelled the kit for my new TSpirit on the basis that £300 is a lot to pay for something when nobody knows what it does. Good luck with finding an answer…
Thanks Martin - yes, unfortunately the iPod/iPhone integration issue is a long-standing one which we’re still looking into. Sorry that you’re still in the dark on this but it hasn’t been forgotten about at this end, I promise.
Charles, hopefully I’ll be able to answer the rest of your questions later today.
Mellisa Couldton
Since my blog to you with regards my February delivery of Prius T-spirit, question re Ipod Interface kit.
Your last blog 11th Jan stated you would be back in touch later that day, as yet not heard. I am aware time is ticking away as the dealership have ordered this kit for me at a cost of £299.00p which is alot of money on top of cars RRP.
Some of the comments on the blog suggest these are a waste of money some say they already exist erh erh.
Toyota do I cancel this kit not !!
The dealership will not be happy with me if I either cancel it or they start installing this kit for no reason.
Charles
Charles, there is a standard 3.5mm socket as standard at the base of the rear of the central sliding console. Provided you have a suitable lead (3.5mm male to male for ordinary headphone sockets) audio from any mp3 player/phone/handheld/or even personal cassette player(!) can be played through it.
Obviously it doesn’t give control integration, but allows you to play through the car’s own speakers.
Hi Charles,
I would go against it, it’s very expensive with very little advantage (very limited control, just going up/down playlist without any proper display/feedback). I had the bad idea to order it and don’t use it, the 3.5mm jack (or Bluetooth) a lot more practical…
Hi again Charles,
Apologies for the delay - I’ve been trying to get back to everyone as quickly as possible, but hadn’t realised that your issue was quite so time-sensitive.
The T Spirit does not have a USB connector as standard - it is added at factory level if you order the integration kit. There is an aux-in jack located in the central console as standard, which, as Brian rightly states, can be used to connect an MP3 player to play music through the speakers. (Note that you cannot transfer any data or files, including MP3, to the HDD via any connector.)
As you know, the advantage with the integration system is that you can control the music via the sat nav display. Ultimately it is entirely your decision as to how important this functionality is to you, and so whether you go ahead with the option or not.
Perhaps you could clarify whether this factory fit
interface is actually the full ‘USB Interface” which
is factory fitted as standard to U.S. models with
navigation? This give full control and display of
iPod and USB drives from the navigation touch screen.
Or is it still the old UK dealer fit iPod interface with
strictly limited functionality (it emulates a CD changer)?
When will the full “USB Interface” upgrade kit be
available in the UK for the TSpirit? In the U.S. it has
been available as an upgrade for earlier built cars
since it became standard fit in September.
Thanks,
A very good question, Richard - I’ll endeavour to find out.
How does the battery get recharged ?
See replies to an earlier query here:
http://blog.toyota.co.uk/new-prius-everything-you-need-to-know/comment-page-1#comment-7165
can you tell me the cost of the DAB radio option on the Tsprint
Hi Paul,
Yes - it’s £378.90 plus fitting on all grades.
anybody experienced the loud ICE noise and vibration. it seems to be happening quite a bit in the US and I have experienced it on three occasions since Sept (4000 miles)
Example is available on you tube under “2010 prius engine knocking”
How many years warranty is there on a Toyota Prius
Hi there Adrian,
Thanks for your question, and for your emails. The warranty on all hybrid components of the Prius is five years, while the warranty on other part is three years (or 60,000 miles), which is standard across all Toyota models. Of course, extended warranty packages are also available. Please see this section of Toyota.co.uk for further details.
I am thinking of getting a new Prius, does Toyota have a Towbar as a option
No - if you search this thread you will find that this has been answered many times already, including some explanation of why.
Hi Dave,
I can confirm that Toyota does not recommend towing with a Prius, so Toyota therefore does not manufacture a towbar for it. Here is the explanation Brian referred to.
Hi Just done an oil change on my 2010 T Spirit at 1296 miles just after running in mileage. It was very easy but you do need the correct tool to get the oil filter casing off, the filter kit has a paper filter also an O ring and a sump washer, these comes in the filter box, The Toyota part number is 04152-37010. the oil you can get from
http://www.japarts.co.uk/shop/ 0 20w the price is about £39 but is a good oil also has the recommended specs, it comes in 4LT. containers I bought 2 as the engine holds 4.2 LT so I will have some spare. The special tool you can get from here http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B001I6CH4M/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&qid=1262430954&sr=1-2&condition=new Cost just under £7 free postage it works great but is a tight fit on the filter housing which is a good point, just put a small amount of grease on the inside of the tool and it fits good and can be pulled of easy when done.
I can see that a TPMS system is mentioned in the forums but there is no mention of it in the UK specs. Is TPMS available for the UK?
What is TPMS?
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Think it is USA only? Definitely dont have it on my T3
Had hoped it would be an option for the UK market…
Hi Paul,
TPMS (correctly identified as the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System - thanks, Alan) isn’t available on UK Toyotas, I’m afraid. Often the forums have originated in the US, hence you will sometimes get discrepancies in specification cropping up.
I have an 07 Prius - looking to change to new model asap - took test drive and found the new central console to have significantly reduced leg space in the front. After driving for a couple of hours I found it very uncomfortable due to contact points on the leg from the console. I’m 6ft 4 and found the previous model is much more open at the front giving more space. If I order the new car can anything be done to make any minor amendments to the central console to give a bit more room? Thanks.
Hi Graham,
Sorry to hear you didn’t find the third-generation Prius as comfortable when you had a test drive. I’m not aware of any padding that exists specifically for the central console I’m afraid. However, I do know that there are some tall Prius drivers out there - is anyone able to offer Graham any solutions?
I have current Prius - having test drove the new model to change I have found the introduction of the new central console restricts leg room resulting in contact points on the side of the leg. In essence it’s enclosed the “cockpit area” and reduces lateral leg room. Can anything be done about this such as fitting of padding to enhance comfort from contact points? I’m fairly tall at 6 ft 4in so maybe this is not a problem to everyone but the new model just didn’t feel as comfortable? Many thanks
How do i deice my car on the drive. With my car i can run it and make sure it has clear windows before i set off.
You can do the same. The Prius is a petrol/electric hybrid so when you want lots of heat to defrost the windows, the petrol engine comes on and generates heat just like a normal car.
Hi With mine I put a small electric heater in the car 15 mins before I need to go, this makes the car nice and warm as well as de icing. This is a mains heater 1000 2000 watts soon does the job
Hello,
im interested in buying a “green car” but i was wondering what the fuel consumption is, also how much is the road licence? Thanks
Fuel consumption depends upon how you drive it, type and length of journey, but the quoted figures in accordance with the standard tests will be on the main Prius website. Remember that because these are produced in standardised conditions they are almost invariably for all cars higher than can normally be expected in the real world.
Personally I have actually achieved an average of mid 50s in October/November, and low 50s even in the current cold (which reduces the mpg) and with a roof box on.
Road fund licence is free!
It does depend a lot on how you drive it. In September I took the car from Coventry to Luton airport and as it was brand new I wanted to know how many digits were on the head up display. I can tell you that the display can display 3 digits… However I did manage to get 69.9 mpg on that trip and no points! In the cold I have noticed it has decreased quite drastically but now that I have *checked the tyre pressures* the mpg has returned to the high 50’s. T3 model.
Hi Lauren,
The official combined fuel consumption for Prius is 72.4mpg with 15″ wheels and 70.6mpg with 17″ wheels. These figures are certainly achievable - a number of people have reported back to us on the impressive mpg their Prius is achieving - but mpg certainly does depend on factors such as temperature and driving style. Making good use of Electric Vehicle mode (which uses no fuel and causes no CO2 to be emitted), for instance, will really help your fuel consumption. And yes, the road licence is £0!
Thanks for your questions. Feel free to get back in touch if there’s anything else you’d like to know.
The general consensus amongst owners about use of EV mode is that it is overall more efficient, under normal circumstances, to let the car decide when to turn on the internal combustion engine and when to use battery only.
Having said that, there are circumstances when you know what’s coming better than the car does and so would want to use EV mode - such as a short journey or just moving the car a little when the engine shouldn’t be needed at all, or a journey that is predominantly downhill and can therefore be done on battery/gravity alone. Also when in a stop/start queue and it is unnecessary for the engine to start.
is prius front or rear wheel drive
Front!
Please can you advise how I can override the VSC on my Prius. It is stuck in snow and will not move as whenever I press the accelerator the orange vsc warning light comes on and the car loses power. My ten year old corsa has no problem moving on the same road on the snow - why does the petrol engine shut down completely when any slight imbalance is detected - this is very dnagerous.
I don’t think you can. You need to be very gentle with the accelerator and try to creep to get going. I’ve found the third gen much less liable to the traction control kicking in when you don’t want it to than the second gen model.
I had the same problem yesterday trying to car the car on to the drive. It may sound obvious but turning the steering wheel a small amount left / right helped and gave me enough traction to move the car front / back to get the car out of the dip. I was driving in the Scottish mountains earlier this week on untreated icey roads and I can let you know that the traction control was fantastic. Don’t try to switch it off, it isn’t dangerous it was a life saver.
do you have a prius estate model - ie with a boot suitable for a dog
Nope, but rumors of Hybrid Avensis are in the mix….
Although the Prius Gen3 is a hatchback, it is more like an estate because the loadspace floor is level with the rear sill and you have cargo hooks (handy for bungees and dog leads). We get two dogs in the back of mine . Have a look at one or see some online pictures like these…
http://www.hybridcars.com/toyota/prius/photo/060/rear-cargo-from-front-seat
Thanks for that, Alan!
Toyota does not make an estate version of Prius and has no current plans to develop one, but like Alan says, the boot isn’t small. The rear seats also fold flat which should give you plenty of room. I hope that helps!
why has the garantee on the drive train and batteries been reduced to five years from the previous models 8 years
I believe it is because, now it’s in it’s third generation it is no longer risky technology,and has proved it’s reliability. Five years is Toyota’s standard term.
can you get this car on mobality.how much up front do you have to pay.
Hello Mr. Vivian,
Are you referring to Motability? If so, then yes, Prius is available. For more details, including how much you have to pay upfront, please call 0845 602 1727 or visit this page. Thanks for your question.
What tyres/snow chains do I need for this weather
My dads Gen 3 seems to be fine with the normal tyres you get with the car, he was really impressed when it slid and the traction control came on got it out the skid.
If you fitted snow tyre for estate roads they would work fine but when used on gritted/clear roads they would not only wear quickly but give you less grip.
More or less the same with tyre chains, great on snow covered roads but on clear roads they would hurt the tyres. You would have to greatly reduce your speed as well.
Your normal road tyres will do fine.
(I am speaking of UK roads here)
what is the top speed of this battery powered car please answer i am keen
The Toyota website is full of useful information. http://www.toyota.co.uk/cgi-bin/toyota/bv/generic_editorial.jsp?deepLink=PS3_Specification_new&nodiv=TRUE&fullwidth=TRUE&edname=specSheet_PS3&carModel=Prius&imgName=/bv/specSheet_images/Next_Prius_Hatchback_5_Door.jpg&zone=Zone NG Prius&navRoot=toyota_1024_root
Top speed of the 3rd gen is about 110mph I believe (the 2nd gen was 104mph) - certainly more than you’ll ever need on a UK public road!
Hi George,
We like keenness!
Brian is right about the speed. However, just to confirm: Prius is not an electric vehicle (EV) but a full hybrid, meaning it can be powered using the engine, a battery-powered motor, or a combination of both. Using the hybrid battery alone, the top speed you can reach is 31mph.
Keep an eye out for the plug-in Prius, though, which is also a full hybrid but thanks to its lithium-ion battery is able to travel at speeds of up to 62mph using battery power alone. Trials are starting soon and it should be available commercially in 2012. And we’ll be the first to let you know if the FT-EV II, an EV concept car with a top speed of over 60mph that was launched in Japan last year, is going to be produced commercially and sold in the UK.
Thanks for your question, and don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you have any further questions.
Hi,
My name is Shane Richards, I am doing the Level 3 Engineering Diploma for South Leicestershire College at Lutterworth College. My teacher has asked me to Email you about the task he has set me wondering if you could provide me with some help. I have been set a task that I am struggling on and I was wondering if you could possibly help me by providing the answers you can for the questions that I have sent in the attachment? If you could help me out, it would be greatly appreciated. The Topic I have chosen to designate on is the hybrid cars, as it is a new technology that is trying to save the planet so I think it is very important to the world.
Regards,
Shane Richards,
Lutterworth College
does the prius come with electric heated door mirrors
Yes. Al the Prius Gen3 trim levels (T3, T4, Tspirit) have heated door mirrors.
Having owned my Gen 111 since Sep 09, I was pleased to be achieving up to 70mpg during the first 2000 miles. However I now struggling to achieve 60mpg on similar runs.
How much of this drop would you realistically expect as a result of the cold weather over the past few weeks?
Regards
Kev
Yes it is. Pop over to the Prius Chat forum to find out more.
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-fuel-economy/
That,s better than my experience. My Prius 3 only returns 50mpg which is no improvement on the mark2
Wow, how do people only get 50 or less from the Gen3. My gen 2 was achieving 55 min and eventually 65 per tank when I got rid. My best ever trip was 70mpg on a run from Chesterfield to Skegness and back.
A lot depends on driving style & speed and length of journeys, but unlike Peter I’ve certainly found it better than the 2nd gen I had previously. Over Christmas, in the cold (when it is less efficient) and with a roofbox on I still got mid 50s.
I realised I didn’t actually answer your original question - yes, it is usual for consumption to be worse in winter (and was on the 2nd gen). One reason for this is that the ICE has to run more to get it up to the minimum operating temperature
Cheers Brian,
Can’t wait for the weather to improve. The Gen 3 seems to be effected more by the cold weather.
I agree the gen 3 mpg is better than the gen 2 by about 10-15% so I’m expecting to hit high 70’s eventually
Kev
What is the life span of a Prius battery
Hi Ron,
The nickel metal hydride battery should not need replacing - it is designed to last as long as the car itself does.
im interested in buying a new toyote prius in near future ,is there any chance to order this car in left hand drive specification ?
Plenty of them in Europe and the USA/Canada. If you want to buy a LHD in the UK, have a word with your Toyota dealer or two.
availableon motability ?
Hi Whiley,
Yes, Prius is available through the Motability scheme. Please see here for more details.
please can you suggest where I could get roof bars and/or a roof box for 5 door 2005 T3 Prius and how much theye would cost. Thanks.
Hi, good to be able to post comments after a few weeks of problems.
I have a T Spirit Gen 111 which periodically is creating a very loud engine noise and extreme vibration when started. Not possible to identify in advance, when it is going to happen but it seems to be when the car has been unused for a few days. The local dealer is being very helpful offering to store my car for a weekend, giving me a courtesy car and then having me present to start the car after a few days. Hopefully the noise will happen again.
Has anybody else experienced a similar problem?
This is not uncommon in the cold weather but it is a mystery. Check out the Prius Chat forum.
http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-care-maintenance-troubleshooting/
Mmm, cold weather does not appear to be the problem as the first time it happens was early Oct.
It has only happened two other times, both on cold mornings, but the noise is very very loud.
The second time it happened, my neighbor was in her car reversing from the drive with windows closed. She stopped and checked her car as she thought she had a problem. Imagine how loud that must have been
Hi Kev,
Sorry for the late reply, but it’s great to hear that you’re able to comment again (we had the web team look into it for you) and that your dealer is providing you with a courtesy car. I am however sorry to hear about this problem. Let me know what the dealer says/has said and if it remains a mystery, we’ll look into it further.
Hi Kev,
Had the same problem a few days ago. Immediately turned the car off, tried again with same result. Turn it off again immediately (don’t want to make any damage).
Then switched it on in EV, drove it a few meters, switched off EV. Seemed to have done the trick, or might just be