How much should a Toyota Prius cost?
New Priuses typically start in the upper $20,000s and can climb into the mid-$30,000s for higher trims; used Priuses vary widely by year and mileage, with older models often priced in the low thousands and recent, low-mileage examples commonly in the $20,000s to $30,000s range.
Pricing is influenced by trim level, drivetrain (AWD-e option), packages, regional incentives, and dealer strategies. This article outlines current pricing ranges for both new and used Prius models and offers guidance for shoppers navigating the market in 2025.
What affects Prius price
Several factors shape how much you’ll pay for a Prius, including model year, trim level, drivetrain configuration, mileage, battery health, and regional incentives. Dealer promotions and supply at your location can also swing the final sticker price and financing terms.
New Prius pricing by trim
Prices shown are indicative MSRPs before destination charges and taxes and may vary by region and year. Destination charges for Prius models are typically around $1,000–$1,100 in 2025, and actual prices can differ with promotions or regional incentives.
- L Eco — starting around $27,000
- LE — around $29,000
- XLE — around $32,000
- Limited — around $35,000 to $36,000
- AWD-e (all-wheel drive) option — adds roughly $1,000–$2,000 to the above trims
In summary, the base Prius remains a relatively affordable entry point, while higher trims and the AWD variant push toward the mid-$30,000s. Always verify current regional pricing and incentives when shopping.
Used Prius pricing
Used-prius pricing reflects year, mileage, condition, and market demand. The ranges below are approximate guidelines for the U.S. market as of 2025.
- 2010–2015 models: typically $4,000–$12,000 depending on mileage and condition
- 2016–2018 models: typically $13,000–$20,000 for average mileage
- 2019–2021 models: commonly $20,000–$28,000, with low-mileage units often higher
- 2022–2024 models: typically $25,000–$34,000, with well-kept, low-mileage examples nearer the upper end
When buying used, battery health, maintenance history, and recalls status are important considerations. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a check of any remaining hybrid-battery warranty can save money and prevent surprises.
Summary
For new buyers, the Prius offers a range from the upper $20,000s to the mid-$30,000s depending on trim and drivetrain, with AWD adding to the price. For used shoppers, prices span from several thousand dollars for older cars to the mid-$30,000s for late-model, low-mileage examples. Market conditions, regional incentives, and individual dealer offers will affect the bottom line, so it pays to shop around and verify the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and insurance.
How many years will a Toyota Prius battery last?
between 8-10 years
How long will my hybrid battery last? Most Toyota Prius hybrid batteries will last between 8-10 years and/or 100,000-150,000 miles. Contrary to popular belief, the more miles a Prius is driven, the greater lifespan the battery will have.
What is the most affordable Prius?
Prius C
The second Prius is the Prius C. This is the most affordable Prius with a starting MSRP of $19,080(1). This compact size vehicle makes squeezing into small spaces easy! The Prius C has the highest estimated city mpg of any vehicle without a plug earning a MPG of 53 city and 46 hwy(2).
What's the best year to buy a Prius?
The best Toyota Prius years are often cited as 2015, 2016, and 2017 for a combination of reliability and modern features, as they represent the peak of the third and the beginning of the fourth generations. Other top years include the 2013 for strong reliability ratings and 2019 and newer for the most up-to-date technology and efficiency, especially the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid for its extended electric range.
This video discusses some of the best used Toyota hybrids to buy, including the Prius: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Nov 20, 2021
Recommended years
- 2015: Considered the peak of the third generation, known for strong reliability and fuel efficiency.
- 2016-2017: The first model years of the fourth generation, which brought significant improvements in fuel economy, handling, and technology.
- 2013: A strong contender with high reliability scores, though some models from this generation (2010-2015) had a higher risk of head gasket issues.
- 2019 and newer: Represent the most recent advancements in hybrid technology, with models like the 2022 Prius Prime offering exceptional fuel efficiency.
Years to be cautious of
- 2010–2012: These years are more likely to have experienced issues like head gasket problems compared to other model years.
What is the most common problem of Toyota Prius?
Top Toyota Prius Problems
- Tires may wear out prematurely.
- The hight voltage hybrid battery may fail prematurely.
- Problems may develop with the fuel tank liner.
- Toyota Prius inverter coolant issue indicated by engine light.
- Toyota Prius no dashboard lights due to faulty capacitor on odometer board.
