Could I 2013-ify my 2011?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by Ethan Waldman, Mar 2, 2016.

  1. Ethan Waldman

    Ethan Waldman Junior Member

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    I've been loving my (new to me) 2011 Prius Three, but when I bought it I didn't realize that there was a difference between the 13's and later. As far as I can tell, the differences are:

    • Black rims instead of silver
    • Different taillights
    • More angular front bumper cover
    If I wanted my 2011 to look like a 2013 or later, could I do it?
    • Would a 2013 bumper cover fit on my 2011?
    • Are the 2013 black rims the same as the 2011, just painted black?
    • Could I swap out the tail lamps?
    • What else would I need to do?
    I'm probably the most interested in the front bumper cover out of all of them.. And maybe the black rims ;)
     
    Dylan Doxey likes this.
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    check the mod threads. you can do anything, if you put your mind, hands and wallet to it.:p
     
  3. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    Yep, I agree.
    I've seen enough mod threads to realize with enough time, talent and money, nearly anything is possible.

    My real question is "Why?".

    I default to the tried and true cliche "Love The One Your With".

    But if you really think it's necessary? Go for it.
     
  4. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk MMX GEN III

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    Pointless. In particular the black rims.
     
  5. Dylan Doxey

    Dylan Doxey Senior Member

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    The answer is a hearty YES.

    Swapping out the bumper cover is relatively simple. The one catch is that you probably need to swap out the underlying foam "energy absorber" as well. I know that @saulbassfan has some relevant experience in this department.

    The tail lights are a direct bolt-on replacement.

    The wheels should also be a direct bolt-on swap. However, if you just want them black you could probably save yourself several dollars by simply painting the ones you have.

    However, if it were me, and I am me, I would go for some G-Sport components instead.

    And on the side topic ...

    Some may say there's no value in aesthetic mods. But I disagree. Modding is how we renew our love for our rides.
     
  6. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    I have nothing against "aesthetic mods", some are quite impressive.

    I wouldn't personally work too hard to make a 2011 look like a 2013, but if someone wants to do so? I think it's a valid hobby.
     
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  7. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    The bumper cover can be swapped:

    Will the new 2012 front bumper fit on a 2011?

    As mentioned, the tail lights are a direct swap. Though I think the tail lights from the PiP are nicer (clear lenses), over the double red hockey sticks of the 2012+.

    As for the black wheels, you might be able to find someone willing to trade with. IMO silver wheels look better on certain colored cars. ;)
     
    #7 xliderider, Mar 3, 2016
    Last edited: Mar 3, 2016
  8. mmmodem

    mmmodem Senior Taste Tester

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    Yes, can be done. Cost will likely exceed the price between a 2013 and 2011. In other words: pointless. Go get a 2013.
     
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  9. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk MMX GEN III

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    All these mods would cause some confusion when you come to trade or sell the car.
     
  10. Rebound

    Rebound Senior Member

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    There's a whole sub-forum here about Prius mods. I think you'll be happier with what you can accomplish with after-market instead of buying the expensive Toyota OEM stuff.
     
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