2016 Toyota Prius 1.8L Hybrid electric · BA66 ALA

The 1.798cc hybrid petrol-electric powertrain typically returns mid-40s to low-50s mpg in real-world driving, which is a strong selling point against conventional petrol or diesel alternatives of similar size. Road tax falls into a low CO2 band for a hybrid of this generation, keeping annual VED costs modest. Insurance group ratings for the Prius tend to sit in the lower-to-middle range, though premiums depend on driver profile. Annual maintenance is generally modest outside of tyre wear, brake work and the occasional hybrid system check, so a realistic annual running cost of around £1,000-£1,300 covering fuel, tax, insurance and routine servicing is a fair estimate for this vehicle.

Although this car has not recorded any of the model's typical MOT failure points (anti-roll bar, headlamp, drive shaft joint), it remains worth inspecting those areas visually and on a lift. On a test drive, listen for CV joint clicking on full lock and check headlamp condition for condensation or lens misting, as both are common Prius MOT failure triggers across the model population. Verify the hybrid battery state of health via a Toyota diagnostic read or specialist scan, since high-mileage examples can show reduced capacity that does not surface in an MOT. Finally, inspect the underbody for corrosion, examine the rear suspension for cracked bushes, and confirm the 12V auxiliary battery is recent, as a failing auxiliary battery can cause misleading hybrid system warnings on this generation of Prius.