Since its launch almost 20 years ago, the Toyota Prius has become an icon of hybrid vehicles. After its introduction, the Prius quickly became the world’s best-selling hybrid vehicle, renowned for its market-leading technology, plus eco-friendly and wallet-friendly benefits.
Nowadays, the Prius is still popular among drivers, with Toyota boasting an increase of almost 140% in sales of the model in the first quarter of 2024 alone.
So why do so many delivery drivers and couriers choose a Prius?
Let’s get into the main reasons, including:
- Fuel efficiency
- Durable engine
- Vehicle warranty
- Safety features
How the Prius saves you money at the pump
A brand new 2.0L Prius gets an estimated 57 miles per gallon, depending on the hybrid engine type.
When asked about their MPG in the real world, Reddit users have reported MPGs of anywhere between 30 to 70, depending on the Prius age, engine generation and climate.
Even more impressively, in 2023 a Prius LE was awarded a Guinness World Record for highest MPG in a coast-to-coast drive in the US. Professional driver Wayne Gerdes used all of his savvy driving know-how to achieve a huge 93mpg across over 3,000 miles, which included mountain ranges and the Mojave Desert.
With so many miles until you need to fill up, the Prius makes your hard-earned money go further and saves you precious time at the pump too.
What makes Toyota engines so durable?
The Toyota name has long been synonymous with engines that just. keep. going.
Japanese cars are built to last, with a strong focus on quality control. Each vehicle part is tested and optimised for performance until the end user receives something that works perfectly. And when Japanese car makers strike gold, they stick with it. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it - and the Prius is no different.
A quick search on Google will show you stories of Toyota drivers with mileages in the high hundreds of thousands without even a wheeze from the engine.
As a delivery driver or courier racking up those miles daily, owning a vehicle that can keep up without much effort is a huge benefit.
Don’t just take our word for it
According to our data, the Toyota Prius takes up the top 3 spots for most insured cars for our courier drivers, which includes parcel and fast food delivery.
With so much going for it - durability, fuel efficiency and enhanced safety features, it’s no wonder that the Prius is a popular choice for busy drivers on the go.
Most popular vehicle types among UK courier and delivery drivers covered by INSHUR - 2024
Source: INSHUR
Keep your Prius maintained with Toyota warranties
When the Prius was first released, it was the first hybrid vehicle of its kind in the UK. Naturally, Toyota was worried about how buyers would react - would Toyota’s new invention flop with UK drivers?
To persuade potential buyers, Toyota introduced Europe’s first 5-year mechanical warranty.
Fast forward, and Toyota’s warranty is still generous. Here’s how it works in 2025:
|
What’s Covered |
Warranty Length |
|
Vehicles under 10 years old |
Up to 10 years (dependent on mileage and services booked with approved Toyota dealers) |
|
Toyota Hybrid Battery |
15 years, up to 15th year of registration (dependent on services booked with approved Toyota dealers) |
|
Corrosion |
12 years |
|
Paintwork and rust |
3 years |
Read about Toyota Warranties in more detail
Can the Prius stand up to work and family life?
In short, yes.
Batteries in the newer Prius models provide around 40 miles of electric range before the fuel engine kicks in, making it a great choice for private hire drivers working in busy towns and cities. The impressive fuel efficiency means less time at the pump, and the durable engine means with proper maintenance, a Prius could serve you well for years.
For those with younger children and families, the newer Prius models offer loads of room for a car seat, with ISOFIX mounting points. If you need more storage capacity in the boot as a delivery driver, the back seats are easily pushed down flat with a lever.
According to CarWow, the interior boasts a solid build quality that should more than live up to family life, or the constant coming and going of private hire passengers.
Is a Prius safe to drive?
Depending on the model, the Toyota Prius comes packed with safety features meant to protect you, your passengers and fellow road users.
Newer model features include:
- Lane Keep Assist - alerts if you drift or unintentionally leave your lane
- Electronic Stability Control - activates if you should lose control of your vehicle
- Pre Collision System - Detects pedestrians, cyclists and other moving hazards
- Blond spot monitor - Alerts you to vehicles in your blindspot
- Front driver, passenger and side airbags
- Reversing camera
Check out the resources at the end of this article for more information about safety features.
So, should you choose a Prius as a delivery driver?
In the end, you should choose the right vehicle for your needs.
Speak with other Prius owners to get their real-world recommendations, and ask for their pros and cons.
But in short, the impressive mpg, enhanced safety features, engine durability and all-around popularity mean the Prius could be a great choice for you.
Do your research, book a test drive, and make sure you get the correct insurance if you decide to purchase.
With INSHUR, you can choose from multiple levels of cover, flexible payment options, and be covered for work and play (Social, Domestic & Pleasure is included on all courier and fast food delivery insurance policies).
Summary Questions:
Is the Toyota Prius a good car for couriers?
Depending on your professional needs, the Prius could be a great choice. The Prius offers better miles per gallon than many competitors - better for your wallet - and is known for an engine that keeps going. You’ll be spending less time in the repair shop, meaning more time earning and delivering on the road.
How much does a Toyota Prius cost to insure?
All INSHUR insurance quotes are calculated based on personal circumstances. The quickest way to get a price is to quote online. Tap the button below to get started today.
How much is a Toyota Prius?
A brand new Prius costs from £37,425 just about keeping it under the £40k Premium Car Tax fee.
Priuses on the second-hand market vary in price, but depending on year expect to pay between £6k for older models up to £35k for models less than a year old.
Note - in order to drive for Uber, your vehicle must be no older than 10 years old, or 5 in London.
Be sure to double-check vehicle requirements with any operator you choose to work with before making your purchase.
Further Resources:
