Which one? Same price for 2016 vs. 2017, but...

They are both the same car. There aren't any real differences between model years from what I understand. I may be wrong. I think what you need to do is determine if the difference between depreciation rates is worth the warm fuzzies of the seven year warranty. If I were making this decision I'd be thinking how long I'm going to own this car. If you are going to drive it until the wheels fall off, I'd go for the 2016 model.

BUT, I'd also check to make sure that Toyota won't honor the full warrantee, even if it is a used vehicle. After all, Lexus IS Toyota.

 

I would go with the 2017- newer is always better and the fleet car would give me some concern. Good luck!

 

There was a time not long ago that I could detail exactly what each option package include for each year.

Now, not so much.

I would still suggest that you not assume all features are 100% identical, just because they have the same package, however.

You might find one year has the Blind Spot Monitor (something hint I could not live without) and the other does not, for example. Or not. I am ex spurt.

Ther is so much tech, that I sincerely believe even the most motivated could miss something with out a check list in hand at the dealership.

Just my .02

As for working with a Lexus dealer vs Toyota that hardy matters (apart from the longer Certified warrantee) since ther is zero reason why one should get their car serviced where they purchased it.

 

I’d go with the ‘17 just because any bugs were worked out. You also have the remainder of the 3/36,000 bumper to bumper as well as the 5/60,000 Powertrain and 8/100,000 mile battery warranty (10/150,000 states with California emissions)

What I noticed with the latter half of 2017 production, they started coming with
Safety Plus Package (~$1000.00) that was included for free.
– Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)37 and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)38
– Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS)35 with Intelligent
Parking Assist (IPA)36

Not sure if that one has it but I would want it if I had a choice next time!

 

Drive them both - see which one you like best. Colour?

 

I have the 2016 with the Advanced Tech Package. If I could get a new car now, I'd love a Prime or a 2018.

In your situation, I'd go for the 2017. It's newer, has the complete TSS-P, which the 2016 doesn't, and you don't have to worry about the 2016's teething pains. Toyota's got those worked out. I haven't seen any recalls for 2017s here on Prius Chat. There were a number of issues on early builds of the 2016s.