2016 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric (clean) · AR15 SAU

Official fuel economy for the 1.8 Prius is around 70 mpg in mixed driving, though real-world figures on a high-mileage example are likely closer to 50-55 mpg. Road tax is minimal at £0 or £180 annually for this generation depending on list price banding. Insurance is typically group 15-17, relatively low for a family car. The bigger cost concern is unscheduled maintenance: with this mileage, expect wear items such as suspension bushes, wheel bearings and brake components to need attention sooner rather than later.

Estimated annual running cost: £1,400-£1,900, accounting for higher-than-average maintenance given the odometer reading. Buyers should also set aside a contingency fund of £1,000-£2,000 for hybrid battery work which may become necessary.

Focus the inspection on hybrid-specific items that MOT testing does not cover. Request a thorough battery health check showing individual cell voltages; imbalance between cells is the first sign of impending pack failure. Listen for unusual whirring from the inverter or transmission area on the test drive, and watch for the engine running more than expected at low speeds, which suggests reduced battery capacity. Check the 12V auxiliary battery condition, as a failing 12V unit causes misleading hybrid error codes.

On the mechanical side, inspect the underside carefully for oil leaks from the engine or transaxle, and check the condition of the suspension arms and anti-roll bar bushes — these are the model's most common MOT failure items according to aggregate data. Examine the headlamps for condensation and the drive shaft gaiters for splits. Although this car's recent MOTs were clean, the listed model failure patterns remain relevant given that future wear is inevitable at this mileage.