2016 Prius Toyota Review | Costs, MPG, and Ownership Reality
You’re probably here for one simple reason: you’ve found a used hybrid that looks affordable, sips fuel, and promises Toyota reliability but you want to know if it’s actually a smart buy today. Fair question. I’ve driven and evaluated more generations of Prius than I can count, and the 2016 model was a turning point for Toyota. That year marked a full redesign, with Toyota moving the Prius to a new platform, improving handling, refining the ride, and pushing efficiency even further.
The 2016 prius toyota isn’t just another used hybrid it’s the first modern Prius that still feels current nearly a decade later. Over the last few weeks, I’ve revisited owner data, long-term test results, recall history, and Canadian pricing trends. What you’ll get here is the full picture: the good, the annoying, and the stuff dealers don’t always tell you. If you’re deciding whether to buy one in 2026, this will save you time and money.
Why the 2016 Prius Still Matters Today
Toyota didn’t just tweak the Prius for 2016 they rebuilt it from the ground up. The switch to the TNGA platform changed how this car drove. Previous Prius models were efficient but dull. The 2016 version finally felt planted, quieter, and more confident on the highway.
This is also the year Toyota leaned hard into efficiency leadership. When it launched, it was the most fuel-efficient non-plug-in car on sale in North America (Source: EPA, 2016). That matters today because fuel prices still fluctuate, and hybrids age better than many people expect.
Another reason it holds value? Simplicity. No turbochargers. No complex dual-clutch transmissions. Just a proven hybrid system Toyota has refined for over two decades. That’s why many examples are now pushing well past 300,000 km with original drivetrains, according to owner reports on Prius forums and Reddit.
2016 Prius Specs: What You are Really Getting
On paper, the numbers won’t impress anyone but that’s missing the point of this car.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine | 1.8L 4-cylinder + electric motor |
| Combined Output | 121 horsepower |
| Transmission | CVT (planetary gearset) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Battery Type | Nickel-Metal Hydride |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 52 mpg combined |
| Fuel Tank | 11.3 gallons |
| Curb Weight | ~3,050 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | Not rated |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
Source: Toyota Canada Technical Specifications, 2016
Acceleration is adequate, not quick. Zero to 100 km/h happens in about 10 seconds. But around town, the instant electric torque makes it feel more responsive than the numbers suggest.
2016 Toyota Prius Fuel Economy: Real-World Results
Officially, the EPA rated the 2016 Prius at 52 mpg combined, or roughly 4.5 L/100 km (Source: EPA). That figure wasn’t marketing fluff. In real-world testing, most drivers land between 47 and 57 mpg, depending on climate and driving style (Source: Consumer Reports road test data). Cold Canadian winters do hurt efficiency. Expect a 10–15% drop when temperatures fall below freezing. Even then, you’re still beating most compact cars.
From my experience, the Prius rewards smooth driving. Gentle throttle inputs and anticipating stops make a noticeable difference. Many owners report their best numbers after a few months of adapting their habits.
Prius 2016 Trim Levels and Features
Toyota offered four trims in Canada:
| Trim | Original MSRP (CAD) |
| Prius | ~$25,995 |
| Prius Technology | ~$28,000 |
| Prius Touring | ~$30,000 |
| Prius Touring Technology | ~$32,000 |
Source: Toyota Canada pricing guide, 2016
Even base models came well equipped. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. That level of safety tech was ahead of its time. Higher trims added head-up display, leather seating, JBL audio, and larger wheels. If you’re buying used, the Technology trim hits the sweet spot.
Prius 2016 Reliability and Common Problems
Let’s address the big question: Is the 2016 Prius reliable?
Short answer: yes, with a few known issues.
Consumer Reports consistently rated this model above average for reliability (Source: Consumer Reports, 2016–2023). That said, no car is perfect.
Most Common Problems
- Premature wear of rear wheel bearings
- Occasional infotainment system glitches
- Brake actuator noise (rare but expensive if ignored)
- Suspension bushings wearing around 200,000 km
There were five recalls registered with NHTSA, mostly software-related and airbag issues (Source: NHTSA recall database). Most should already be resolved always check the VIN.
2016 Prius Battery Life and Replacement Reality
If you’re paying close to $400 a month, that’s unusually high. In most cases, shopping insurers or adjusting coverage brings that number down quickly. Many buyers still fear hybrid batteries. In reality, Toyota’s NiMH packs are among the most durable in the industry.
Most last 8–12 years or 240,000–320,000 km, based on fleet and taxi data. Replacement costs have dropped significantly. In Canada, a remanufactured battery typically runs $2,000–$3,000 installed as of 2026. Many owners never replace the battery at all. If you do, it’s usually still cheaper than years of fuel savings compared to a gas-only car.
2016 Prius Canadian Pricing and Used Market Value
So, what’s a 2016 Prius worth today?
In early 2026, clean examples in Canada typically sell between $13,000 and $18,000 CAD, depending on mileage and trim (Source: AutoTrader Canada listings, January 2026). Depreciation has slowed. That’s good news if you’re buying now, but don’t expect massive bargains. Demand for efficient used cars remains strong.
Prius vs Prius Prime Differences (2016 Models)
This comes up a lot. The Prius Prime was the plug-in version.
| Category | Prius | Prius Prime |
| Electric-only range | None | ~40 km |
| Fuel economy | Higher overall | Higher with charging |
| Cargo space | Larger | Smaller |
| Complexity | Lower | Higher |
If you can charge at home and drive short distances, the Prime makes sense. Otherwise, the standard Prius is simpler and often cheaper to own long-term.
Ownership Costs: Insurance, Maintenance, and Repairs
Insurance surprises many owners. Rates can be higher than expected due to repair costs and replacement parts pricing. If you’re paying $400 a month, that’s not normal shop around or reassess coverage.
Maintenance is minimal. Oil changes, brake servicing, and coolant changes are straightforward. Regenerative braking means pads last a long time often over 150,000 km. Annual maintenance averages $600–$800 CAD, lower than most compact sedans (Source: owner reports and dealership service menus).
Expert Opinions and Industry Perspective
Edmunds’ long-term test of the 2016 Prius praised its efficiency and durability. In their 2017 update, they noted it “delivers class-leading fuel economy without sacrificing everyday usability” (Edmunds Long-Term Road Test, 2017). Consumer Reports echoed that sentiment, highlighting strong owner satisfaction scores and low running costs in their annual reliability survey (Consumer Reports Auto Issue, April 2018).
These align closely with what I’ve seen over years of testing hybrids.
Conclusion
If your priorities are fuel savings, long-term reliability, and low day-to-day stress, the 2016 prius toyota still makes sense. It’s not flashy. It won’t thrill you on back roads. But it will quietly save you money every single week.
My recommendation: buy one with a documented service history, check recall completion, and don’t fear higher mileage examples. These cars are built for it. If you’re shopping now, act quickly good ones don’t sit long. I’ll continue updating this page as pricing and ownership data evolve, so bookmark it before you decide.
FAQs
Is the 2016 Prius good or bad?
It’s a solid choice if efficiency and reliability matter more than performance. It’s not exciting, but it’s dependable and cheap to run.
How much is a 2016 Toyota Prius worth today?
Most Canadian examples sell between $13,000 and $18,000 CAD depending on mileage and condition.
What is the most common problem of Toyota Prius?
Minor suspension wear and occasional brake actuator issues are the most reported.
What year to stay away from Toyota Prius?
Early second-generation models had more issues. The 2016 redesign is generally considered safe.
What is the best year of Prius to buy?
2016–2019 models offer the best balance of tech, efficiency, and reliability.
Why is insurance on a Prius so high?
Repair costs and specialized parts can raise premiums. Shopping around usually helps.
What are the disadvantages of owning a Toyota Prius?
Slow acceleration, limited towing ability, and higher insurance for some drivers.
Does Leonardo DiCaprio really drive a Prius?
Yes. He’s been photographed driving multiple Prius models over the years.
About the Author:
Hussnain Raza has covered the automotive industry for over 10 years, specializing in vehicle reviews, long-term ownership analysis, and used-car buying advice. He has personally reviewed more than 100 vehicles across multiple segments.
Sources Used:
• Toyota Canada Media & Technical Specifications
• Edmunds Long-Term Road Test (2017)
• Consumer Reports Auto Reliability Surveys
• AutoTrader Canada Used Listings
• NHTSA Recall Database
