2001 MPG - EPA Estimated vs. Reality?

45.4 MPG was the lifetime (59,827 miles) average for my 2001 Prius.

 

I would strongly suggest you look at the 2002-03 models since they fixed a bunch of stuff after the 2001. For one thing, you'll get cruise control that was missing in the 2001 model year. However, I have a 2003 which is the same model as the 2001, an NHW11.

My mileage after 50,000 miles over two and a half years is running 52.3 MPG . . . but then I've made a study of it. Most folks are getting closer to 45 MPG in ordinary driving.

GOOD LUCK!
Bob Wilson

 

I've had my '02 since 10/2007 when it was at 116k miles. Now, about 6,000 miles later, my average is exactly 45 mpg as measured at the pump. Never had a tank under 40 mpg, a two or thee were 50-51. My highway mileage (50 +) is better than heavy-ish city traffic (40-45). Hopefully it will get better as the weather warms-up...

 

2001 EPA rating was 52 city 45 highway. After the EPA 'rating downgrade' this became 42/41. The 90 units compiled at greenhybrid (2001-2003) average 45 mpg. Over 100k miles my 2001 average was also 45, though this excluded the times I carried roof loads. Those were a bit lower

I generally agree with Bob W. that the model had several improvements over time. But the steering fix was in the mid-2002 model run and the battery fix was in early 2003. I'm not sure when the '54' HV ECUs started appearing in new builds. If we accept the idea that the HV battery degrades slowly over time, then the 'youngest available' may offer an advantage.

If you can provide the VIN of the vheicle you are considering, we might be able to tell you which service campaigns, etc. it is under. Any Toyota shop could tell you that in much greater detail, because they can access the company database.

Cruise control can easily be added to 2001s, or any later vehicle sold w/o it, and it is very handy on the hwy. GPS navigation was first offered in 2002, but that feature as a built-in does not please all Prius drivers. The add-on GPS offer several advantages.

Side air bags were first offered in 2002, and this is an excellent safety feature that deserves careful consideration.