2014 Toyota Prius

The 2010-2015 Toyota Prius is the third generation and moved to a larger 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE four-cylinder paired with an updated Hybrid Synergy Drive for 134 combined horsepower. Drive is to the front wheels through a power-split continuously variable transmission. The body remains a five-door liftback, and the range expanded during this period with the larger Prius v wagon and the smaller Prius c, both sold as separate models.

The larger engine allowed lower cruising revs and improved highway efficiency and refinement over the second generation. This generation also introduced selectable EV, Eco, and Power driving modes and offered a solar-powered ventilation option on higher trims. The fourth generation that arrived for 2016 moved to the TNGA platform with a substantially revised chassis.

For used buyers, the third-generation Prius is the most common on the market and the one where mechanical research pays off most. Exhaust gas recirculation passage clogging on the 2ZR-FXE is the widely documented issue on this generation and, if left unaddressed, is associated with head gasket failure. Excessive oil consumption on higher-mileage engines is related and worth checking directly. The electric water pump and the inverter, the latter covered by a recall on certain cars, are the other items to verify. A car with documented EGR service is worth a clear premium over one without.