One clarification first please: does the Prime electric battery re-charge while driving slow/downhill/cruising? Or can it be only charged off an outlet? From your experience, would a 2020 (or newer Gen IV) Prime have more repair and maintenance issues after 200k mi. than a regular Prius? I need help with a high mile, out of CARB warranty, used car purchase.
It works like a regular Prius, it just has a larger battery and ability to plug-in the battery. It's your choice to plug it into an outlet. The breakeven point on mine is around $0.38KwH; if your paying more than that for electricity - you won't save any fuel money. The key to a high mileage car is verifiable maintenance. The car is well broken-in; so odds are it's running great BUT was is it maintained per OEM specifications????? Was the oil, spark plugs, coolant changed in a timely manner. Was all the safety checks done?? Don't trust someone if they state they do all the maintenance themself. What's their background and do they know what they are doing?? That's why you want verifiable maintenance records. Absent the above; take the car to a third party inspection station for a through 'shake-down', usually around $100-$150. If this is a dealership or auto broker, make them give you a FREE extended warranty package, otherwise NO DEAL The price and profit margins on cars these day are crazy - so a bit of insurance for your large investment isn't out-of-line - IMHO...... Just my 2-cents..... Good Luck....
