The 2013 Toyota Prius is a compact hybrid hatchback with a price range of $10,582 to $16,484. Outstanding reliability and a comfortable ride make the Prius a car we recommend to buyers looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle.
2013 Toyota Prius: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2013 model year include a black cherry pearl exterior paint option, and new 17-inch wheels.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, with a lower number of complaints than the 2012 model.
- One hybrid powertrain is available and has a 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired to an electric motor.
- Fuel economy is excellent, and scores 7th out of 27 hybrid & electric vehicles with a combined rating of 48 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other small cars, getting 5-stars in government crash tests and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2013 Prius ranks 9th out of 27 hybrid and electric cars, based on owner reviews. Toyota’s long-term reliability and a roomy interior make the Prius an easy hybrid to recommend.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2013 Toyota Prius Have?
The 2013 Toyota Prius has fewer problems than other hybrid vehicles from the same era, and is a great choice for buyers. There are significantly less issues than the 2011 model year.
Excessive oil consumption is the number one complaint owners have. Usually the oil consumption is not a sign of any problem, and is just the way the engine functions. Check the oil regularly to make sure you don’t damage any components with low oil.
Problems with the radio are also mentioned. Replacing the head unit is the only way to solve the issues if the system freezes up frequently, and can cost around $500.
Brake problems are another issue owners have encountered over the years. Failing actuators reduce the amount of brake force, so stopping takes longer than normal. Replacing the actuators for about $250 solves the issue.
There are 3 recalls, which is better than other cars from 2013. The recalls include an inverter failure, and the hybrid system may shutdown. All of the issues can be fixed with free software updates provided by Toyota dealerships.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2013 Toyota Prius is more affordable than other hybrid and electric vehicles and has a price range of $10,582 to $16,484 depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $23,215 to $30,005. Depreciation is average, dropping about 40% in value over the first 5 years.
- Two is the entry-level model and comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, cruise control, fabric seating, a 6.1-inch infotainment screen, a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback and USB as well as Bluetooth connectivity.
- Three is next in the lineup and gets upgraded cloth, a rearview camera, voice control, navigation system, and an EnTune infotainment system with app integration.
- Persona is a special edition with 17-inch alloy wheels, SofTex artificial leather seating, and black interior accents.
- Four is next in the lineup and has automatic headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, auto-dimming mirror, and a JBL stereo system.
- Five is the flagship model with unique 17-inch wheels, motorized LED headlights, and additional body trim pieces.
How Long Will the 2013 Toyota Prius Last?
The 2013 Toyota Prius is a dependable compact hybrid car, and with proper care will last over 250,000 miles. Be prepared for battery replacements every 100,000 miles, which can cost about $1,500. Maintenance costs are lower than other hybrids, and Repair Pal estimates them to be $423 per year.
We have not had any problems with this vehicle. We have only taken in for preventive maintenance since we bought it new.
It is very reliable. I have had zero issues with it up until this point. The only reason I've had to go to a mechanic is for oil changes.
It is been a very reliable vehicle for the last six years. It has had a few repairs but nothing crazy.
I have never had a problem with my Prius. I love the car and am super happy with it. Storage is great.
Yes, it is incredibly reliable, and almost never has any problems. I recently had to replace the battery in it and the battery is very expensive.
The 2013 Toyota Prius is most reliable by brand. Have never had a problem Toyota. The most annoying part is that if it ever has any issues, it’s specialized in a way that you have to pay Toyota to fix it, however I found the only issue/damage to the vehicle was being struck by debris of an semi-truck on the highway. No randomly generated engine problems or anything like that one might run into with a domestic. Has ~275,000 miles. Due to gas mileage big favorite for road trips.
I have not had any problems with it yet, and have not had to take it in for anything beyond scheduled maintenance.
I've only had a single problem with the Prius where the Toyota logo fell off the front. Toyota replaces it for free when I was in for service. Outside of that I haven't had a problem.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is excellent compared to other hybrid cars, with a standard touchscreen infotainment system.
- Base technology includes a 6.1-inch infotainment screen, AM/FM/CD stereo system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include navigation, an improved JBL stereo system, and EnTune applications.
- For safety there are standard antilock brakes, airbags, as well as stability and traction control systems. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, emergency communication system, as well as pre-collision and lane departure warning systems.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2013 Prius is a compact hybrid and comes with only one powertrain. There is a 98 horsepower 1.8L 4-cylinder engine which works in conjunction with electric motors to produce 134 horsepower. Performance is weak, taking 10.6 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Prius?
The 2013 Toyota Prius is a compact hatchback, and is slightly larger than other compact cars on the market. Passenger room is excellent with plenty of legroom in the second row, and comfortably seats 5 adults. Cargo space is better than other small cars, with 21.6 cubic feet of room in the hatchback area. There’s more than enough room for 5 suitcases.
How Does the 2013 Toyota Prius Compare to Other Cars?
The 2013 Toyota Prius ranks 9th out of 27 hybrid & electric cars, based on owner reviews, and is in the upper half of the class.
Higher up in the category is the Honda Civic Hybrid, which is a less expensive option. Fuel economy and power are both better in the Toyota. Where Honda wins is with better information technology, and a more attractive design. Overall, both are fantastic hybrid cars, and either is a great choice.
Another close competitor in the same price range is the Chevrolet Volt. The Chevy has more passenger room, and a more powerful engine, but weighs more as well, so performance is similar. Toyota offers better technology and is a longer-lasting option. Toyota sets the standard for hybrids, and the Prius is a better vehicle.
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Toyota Prius a Good Car?
Yes, the 2013 Toyota Prius is a good car, based on our research including 466 verified owner reviews, and information from 17 government and automotive websites. Positives include excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable cabin with plenty of room for adults. Downsides are weak performance, and a lot of cheap plastic trim in the interior. Overall, the Prius is one of the best-selling hybrid cars since they are well-made and built to last a long time.