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Is the AWD suspension smoother?

Discussion in 'Gen 4 Prius Main Forum' started by C Rex, Mar 25, 2020.

  1. C Rex

    C Rex New Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Houston
    Vehicle:
    2016 Prius
    Model:
    Four Touring
    Has anyone seen a difference in the suspension of the AWD model compared with the non-touring Gen4 suspension? It’s only about 0.2 inches higher, but I’m sick of getting my azz kicked by potholes.
     
  2. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

    Joined:
    Oct 17, 2010
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    Location:
    Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    Touring
    Is there any diff to the AWD suspension? I'd suspect the azz kicking is due to low profile 17" wheels/tires; they've less give.
     
  3. C Rex

    C Rex New Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    Houston
    Vehicle:
    2016 Prius
    Model:
    Four Touring
    The 17” wheels were horrible. I switched to 15 inchers and oversized tires some time ago. It helps quite a bit, but the touring suspension is still very stiff compared with the non-touring Gen4 I test drove a few weeks ago. I’m considering swapping out the shocks/struts/springs for the AWD version. Maybe I’ll test drive an AWD Prius when the pandemic is over, but I’d like to hear opinions from people who have driven both in the meantime.

    The AWD suspension uses different parts than the other suspensions if that’s what you were asking. It sits slightly higher and has different part numbers.
     
    Mendel Leisk likes this.
  4. amv8

    amv8 Junior Member

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    Location:
    San Francisco
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
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    N/A
    When I test drove the AWD I thought it was a very nice comfy ride even over the bad parts of Van Ness (construction)

    As observed in the YouTube reviews, road noise is very present in the cabin. My guess is it's because of the eco tires? I would swap them out for grand touring tires if I end up getting the AWDe

    Disclaimer: I've never driven one w/ the Touring suspension so I cannot compare. I have to say the AWDe is a much nicer ride than the Gen 3 :)
     
  5. pianewman

    pianewman Active Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    DallasFortWorthTEXASregion
    Vehicle:
    2018 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Every Gen 4 is a much nicer ride than the Gen 3.
    All this talk about the AWD makes me want to drive one, to compare to my GEN 4 Touring and Prius Two.
     
    Tideland Prius likes this.