Safety showdown: toyota prius gen 3 vs gen 4 collision test results revealed

The Toyota Prius has long been a pioneer in the hybrid car market, consistently offering impressive fuel efficiency and eco-friendly features. The third (Gen 3) and fourth (Gen 4) generations of the Prius have been particularly popular, each bringing its own set of advancements and improvements. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Toyota Prius Gen 3 vs Gen 4, exploring their key differences, similarities, and which one might be the better choice for your needs.

Exterior Design

The Gen 3 Prius, introduced in 2009, featured a sleek and aerodynamic design that was both distinctive and futuristic. Its wedge-shaped profile and sharp angles gave it a unique and recognizable look. In contrast, the Gen 4 Prius, released in 2016, adopted a more conventional and understated approach. It retained the overall shape of its predecessor but with smoother lines and a more rounded front end.

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside, the Gen 3 Prius offered a spacious and comfortable cabin, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard featured a large central display and a futuristic instrument cluster. The Gen 4 Prius continued to prioritize comfort but introduced several upgrades. It featured a redesigned dashboard with a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, improved sound insulation, and more comfortable seats.

Powertrain and Fuel Efficiency

Both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Prius utilize a hybrid powertrain that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. However, there are some key differences in their performance. The Gen 3 Prius came with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and a 60-horsepower electric motor, generating a combined output of 134 horsepower. The Gen 4 Prius, on the other hand, received a more powerful 1.8-liter gasoline engine and an 82-horsepower electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 151 horsepower. This translates to improved acceleration and overall driving performance for the Gen 4 Prius.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Gen 3 Prius was rated at 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway, while the Gen 4 Prius achieved slightly better ratings of 54 mpg city/50 mpg highway.

Safety Features

Safety has always been a top priority for Toyota, and both the Gen 3 and Gen 4 Prius come equipped with an impressive array of safety features. Standard features include airbags, stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Gen 4 Prius introduced additional advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Technology and Connectivity

The Gen 3 Prius offered a range of technology and connectivity features, including Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a navigation system. The Gen 4 Prius further enhanced these features with the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a larger touchscreen display, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Price and Availability

The Toyota Prius Gen 3 was available in various trim levels, with prices ranging from $25,000 to $35,000. The Toyota Prius Gen 4 was also offered in multiple trim levels, with prices starting around $28,000 and going up to $38,000.

Which Prius Generation is Right for You?

The choice between the Toyota Prius Gen 3 and Gen 4 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value a distinctive exterior design, a spacious interior, and a proven track record of reliability, the Gen 3 Prius might be a suitable option. However, if you prioritize better fuel efficiency, improved performance, and more advanced technology and safety features, the Gen 4 Prius is the better choice.

End of the Road: A Farewell to the Prius Gen 3

After a successful production run, Toyota discontinued the Prius Gen 3 in 2015. While it may no longer be available new, the Gen 3 Prius remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a balance of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Prius generation is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Prius Gen 4 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Gen 3, achieving ratings of 54 mpg city/50 mpg highway compared to 51 mpg city/48 mpg highway.

Q: Does the Gen 4 Prius have more horsepower than the Gen 3 Prius?
A: Yes, the Gen 4 Prius has a combined output of 151 horsepower, while the Gen 3 Prius has a combined output of 134 horsepower.

Q: Which Prius generation has a larger touchscreen display?
A: The Toyota Prius Gen 4 has a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, while the Gen 3 Prius has a 6.1-inch touchscreen display.