2009 Prius?

I think its a good car for a 16yo because it has digital dash, limited power and its easy to drive. Who knows, the back up cam might even help avoid an accident. My son has been driving a Prius ever since he started driving. He is eighteen now.

 

Have you test driven one? I'm 5'4" and I feel like I sit high in mine (helps that my other car just about has me sitting on the ground).

 

The 09 Prius is virtually the same as any other Gen II Prius (which spans from 2004-2009). The 09 is the pinnacle of refinement for the Gen II Prius since it is the last year of the Gen II (so all refinements would be included). This is not to say that the 04 is a slouch. The Gen II is an awesome vehicle. It has earned a reputation for being a highly reliable, high mpg vehicle that requires little maintenance. There are some quirks to it however.

1) It has a bladder gas tank that will shrink in the cold and expand in the heat (meaning you can put more gas in it in the summer
2) It will get better fuel economy in the spring and fall (unless you don't use ac in the summer).
3) It will make a lot of unfamiliar noises (the brake accumulator turns on unexpectedly, the coolant recovery pump will run at odd times etc)

Overall, they are great cars and I predict you will love it.

 

I would certainly take it for a spin before paying thousands of dollars. Then you can see how you like it and maybe identify any problems with the car.