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Front view of a red 2019 Toyota Prius.

The 2019 Toyota Prius Has ‘Just Enough’ Quirks

If you want to buy a used hybrid that’s full of promise, the 2019 Toyota Prius is an excellent choice. The 2019 Prius is incredibly efficient, plus it offers many safety features. And if you have an eccentric sense of style, this Toyota is an excellent choice. Scooting around in the 2019 Toyota Prius  Some people shade the Prius …

If you want to buy a used hybrid that’s full of promise, the 2019 Toyota Prius is an excellent choice. The 2019 Prius is incredibly efficient, plus it offers many safety features. And if you have an eccentric sense of style, this Toyota is an excellent choice.

Scooting around in the 2019 Toyota Prius 

Front view of a red 2019 Toyota Prius.
2019 Toyota Prius | Toyota

Some people shade the Prius because of its looks and lack of power. But these elements are part of its charm. Its funky style has won the hearts of many, and even though it’s not the fastest hybrid you can buy, the Prius offers enough flavor.

The Prius’ powertrain consists of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Together, these power sources generate 121-hp. Like its hybridized siblings, the Prius has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Prius is also standard with front-wheel drive, but the big news for 2019 was that Toyota made it available with all-wheel drive for the first time too.

2019 Toyota Prius driving on street
Sideview of the 2019 Toyota Prius | Toyota

In addition to its optional AWD system, critics raved about the 2019 Prius’ smoothness. Consumer Reports  is among those that say the current generation of the Prius is the best yet. It’s quieter and its braking performance is improved. The Prius’ 52 mpg overall is also outstanding. But CR says the car’s quirks make it even better. 

“There’s more going on with the fourth-generation Prius than just fuel sipping, though. It still packs the traits Prius owners have come to love, such as hatchback versatility and just enough quirks. The improved handling and more sculpted styling are meant to inject a younger persona to the Prius.”

Consumer Reports (2019)

On the inside 

Sideview of the inside of the 2019 Prius with black upholstery.
2019 Toyota Prius interior | Toyota

The Prius is extremely efficient on the inside too. Even though it’s teeny, the Prius is spacious, and the cargo room it provides is commendable. Cloth upholstery is standard, while some models will have the upgraded synthetic leather. The Prius has five seats, but carrying four people is more realistic.  

“Importantly, the Prius is also still highly functional and spacious. The specs may indicate back seat space was reduced, but it’s still plenty friendly for adults, and happily, the front seat is considerably more comfortable and spacious for taller drivers.” 

Cars.com  (2018)

You’ll also appreciate the 2019 Prius for its active safety features. All models come with Toyota Safety Sense-P. This package includes automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-keep assist. As CR highlights, all but the base models come with blind-spot monitoring.

The downside to the Prius’ tech offerings is that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto weren’t initially available on the 2019 model. Toyota didn’t make both apps standard until 2021. On the bright side, the Prius offers a intuitive touchscreen display and at least Siri Eyes Free standard. 

How much should I pay for a 2019 Toyota Prius?

2019 Toyota Prius Hybrid
2019 Toyota Prius Hybrid on display | Paul Marotta/Getty Images

According to CR’s data, the average price for a 2019 Toyota Prius ranges between $18,700 to $23,450. What makes this used hybrid more attractive is its predicted reliability. CR gave the 2019 Prius a perfect predicted reliability score; owner satisfaction ratings are high too. 

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