With great fuel efficiency, speedy charge times, and decent cargo space, the 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
gave drivers plenty of features for its price point when it came out. While the electric-only driving range is subpar by today’s standards, the Prius PHEV’s three driving modes help to maximize efficiency and savings. There’s no doubt that the Toyota Prius is a top choice when looking at PHEVs. From its history as a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly model to its development into the hybrid go-to today, its role in the development of alternative energy-powered cars is undisputed.
But with a used price between $13,000 and $19,000, the 2014 Prius Plug-In may give you pause. That’s why Jerry
, the super app
that saves drivers money on car insurance
, is here to break down the pros and cons of the Prius PHEV and compare it to similar models to make sure you get a car that fits your driving needs. 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
When someone says electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), one of the first models you may think of is the Toyota Prius.
But there’s more to the PHEV than just fuel considerations. The exterior is aerodynamic with an apex on the roof to maximize rear-seat headroom, a distinct grille, wheel, door handle, and light designs. It’s also pretty roomy, although taller drivers may find the steering wheel placement uncomfortable.
With a high resale value, excellent fuel efficiency, and a great reputation, the Prius Plug-In Hybrid is worth considering if you’re looking to buy a used PHEV.
Pricing
A used 2014 Toyota Prius PHEV will cost somewhere between $13,000 and $19,000. Of course, the actual price will depend on your location, the condition of the vehicle, the trim level, package add-ons, and more.
Compared to other models in its class, the Prius PHEV is a little more costly, so if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other plug-in options.
Performance and fuel economy
The 2014 Prius Plug-In Hybrid is no slouch when it comes to performance, but it's not the best out there. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine works with a pair of electric motors to make 134 horsepower, while a specialized continuously variable transmission (CVT) and 4.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack round out the hybrid system, producing a zero-to-60 time of 9.9 seconds.
As for driving range and charging times, the Prius Plug-In can drive between 10 to 15 miles on pure electric power before it kicks over to the hybrid system. Despite the limited driving range, the Prius Plug-In's battery pack only takes three hours to recharge using a 120-volt home outlet or 1.5 hours with a 240-volt outlet—not bad for a PHEV, even by today’s standards!
The EPA estimates that the Prius Plug-In has a gas-only fuel efficiency of 50 mpg combined (51 mpg city and 49 mpg highway) or 95 MPGe when using gas and electric power—which is super efficient! To stretch out fuel even longer, the Prius PHEV comes with the following drive modes:
Pure electric (EV): Short range at low speeds
Performance: Emphasizes power and speed
Eco: Maximizes efficiency by reducing power to certain systems when idling
Overall, the 2014 Prius PHEV shines when it comes to fuel efficiency, even though its engine performance is nothing special.
Exterior styling
You’ll know the 2014 Toyota Prius if you see it—an aerodynamic-styled hatchback with a sporty rear-facing apex on the roof, 15-inch wheels, a charging port on one side, and a gas cap on the other.
Depending on what’s available at your used car dealer, you can find 2014 Prius PHEVs with the following paint colors:
Interior and comfort
With a spacious cargo area and a roomy cabin, the Prius PHEV provides a comfortable ride that can pack groceries and luggage with ease. The floating console with a simple tray design provides more space, even if the controls are a little busy-looking. Although the interior materials are lackluster, the Advanced trim upgrades the seating to simulated leather and adds an eight-way power driver seat with lumbar support.
The Prius Plug-In Hybrid offers 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, which is a decent amount for its class. However, if you’re constantly lugging around larger items, you may want to consider a PHEV with more cargo room.
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Technology
The 2014 Prius isn’t going to have modern tech, but it includes a lot of gadgets and gizmos. In addition to basics like keyless entry, heated front seats, and full power accessories, the 2014 Prius PHEV comes with the following:
Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity
A 6.1-inch touchscreen display
A six-speaker sound system with a CD player
An iPod/USB interface and satellite and HD radio
Toyota's Entune smartphone and web integration system
But you don’t have to stop there! If you can find one, the 2014 Prius Plug-In Hybrid Advanced adds:
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
A premium eight-speaker JBL sound system
You can also opt for the Technology package which adds automatic LED headlights, fog lights, adaptive cruise control, and a forward collision warning system.
Warranty coverage
Since you’ll have to buy the 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid used, it may be covered by the Toyota Certified Pre-Owned program, depending on which dealer you buy it from. To be considered for the program, vehicles must have at least less than 85,000 miles. Here is the warranty coverage you may be able to carry over:
A 7-year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty (from original date first sold as new)
An 8-year/100,000-mile Factory Hybrid Battery Warranty
Trim levels and options
The 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid is available as a Basic or Advanced model.
The Basic body type includes 15-inch alloy wheels, LED tail lights, and a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat. The Advanced option adds exterior tweaks, automatic headlights, and a higher-quality navigation display. The main difference between the Basic and Advanced are the interior seat materials and tech features (as listed above).
Some notable packages that you may find in your search for the perfect used Prius PHEV are the Solar Roof package, which adds solar cells to power a ventilation fan to keep the interior cool even on the hottest days, the Advanced Technology and Navigation package, the Plus Performance package, and the Plus Appearance package.
You may not be able to find your choice of model type or add-ons on the used market, but even the basic 2014 Prius Plug-In Hybrid is worth checking out!
The bottom line
The 2014 Prius Plug-In has a lot going for it in terms of fuel efficiency and cargo and passenger space. Although it’s not winning any races, it’ll definitely save you money at the pump. If you can forgo more modern tech features and be content with the modest suite of options the Prius does offer, it may be the plug-in hybrid for you!
2014 Toyota Prius PHEV vs. 2014 Chevrolet Volt
Let’s take a look at how the Toyota Prius PHEV compares to the Chevrolet Volt
, another plug-in hybrid that comes as a hatchback.
The Volt has the best all-electric range of any plug-in hybrid of this era. However, it’s not as roomy in the backseat as the Prius. Here are key areas that show how the Prius and the Volt compare:
| | | Fuel economy (gas + electric) | | | |
|---|
2014 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid | | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
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2014 Toyota Prius PHEV vs. 2014 Ford C-Max Energi
Another PHEV to consider is the 2014 Ford C-Max
Energi. It’s a wagon with a lower used price estimate than the Prius, averaging around $10,000 to $14,000. However, the rear seats don’t fold completely flat and the infotainment system leaves a lot to be desired. Let’s see how these two PHEVs measure up:
| | | Fuel economy (gas + electric) | | | |
|---|
2014 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid | | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
How to save money on car insurance
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