Reliability Comparisonother · How we score

2017 Toyota Prius vs 2018 Toyota Prius

Our Recommendation

2018 Toyota Prius

Higher AutoScore, low risk, and a stronger overall profile make it the clear pick.

Reliability Side-by-Side

2017

Toyota Prius

91/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade A-

A supremely reliable hybrid workhorse, just budget for its inevitable major battery service down the line.

2018

Toyota Prius

Winner
92/ 100
LOW RISK

Grade A

A paragon of reliability, the 2018 Prius offers exceptional fuel economy with remarkably few significant mechanical worries.

Best For

Best for Reliability

2018 Toyota Prius

Score 92/100 vs 91/100

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Cost of Ownership

Line Item2017 Toyota Prius2018 Toyota Prius
Annual Maintenance$400-600$400-600
Moderate Repairs$500-1,500 occasionally$500-1,500 occasionally
MPG (City/Hwy)54 / 5054 / 50
MSRP (New)$24,685$23,640

Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.

Biggest Risks on Each

2017 Toyota Prius

  • High Voltage Battery

    120,000-200,000+ mi

  • Brake Actuator Assembly

    100,000-180,000 mi

  • 12V Auxiliary Battery

    50,000-90,000 mi

2018 Toyota Prius

  • EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) System

    80,000-120,000 mi

  • 12V Auxiliary Battery

    30,000-60,000 (often 3-5 years) mi

  • Brake Actuator/Booster Pump Assembly

    100,000-150,000+ mi

Get the Full Report on Each

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Editorial Take

The 2017 and 2018 Toyota Prius represent consecutive model years within the fourth generation (XW50), making them incredibly similar vehicles. Buyers commonly compare them when looking for peak fuel efficiency, renowned reliability, and practical hatchback utility in a compact package. These models appeal primarily to commuters, small families, and environmentally conscious drivers prioritizing low running costs and a hassle-free ownership experience over performance or luxury. The key decision factors between these two specific years often boil down to minor feature differences, especially in standard safety technology, and of course, the slight price disparity found in the used market. HEAD-TO-

Reliability & Common Issues

2017

Value & Cost of Ownership

PURCHASE PRICES (NEW AND USED) As detailed above, the new MSRPs were very close, with the 2018 potentially offering slightly better value due to standard safety features on lower trims. In the used market, the 2017 Prius will naturally have a slightly lower average selling price than a comparable 2018 model due to being one year older. The difference is often incremental, perhaps $500 to $1,500, depending on mileage, condition, and trim level. Both vehicles depreciate slowly, reflecting their strong reliability and demand.

Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles

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Frequently Asked Questions

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