What Car To Get In 2025 With 13k

Created at: 2025-05-18

Toyota Prius

Toyota! High reliability.
5 stars safety rating (UCSR)
Good fuel economy 4.2L / 100km (reported by trade me) 5.5L / 100km (reported by users) source
Good storage size inside.

Battery replacement can be costly. (2018) $4-5k (100,000km ~ 150,000km vehicle) source (2024) $2k for a 3rd party, $3.5k for a Toyota one source (2025) $2.5k for a new one source Note: It usually comes with a 3 year or 200,000km warranty (whichever comes first).
Rattling noise inside due to the cheap plastic parts in the panel. I've found other reports in the internet of owners complaining about this. source
Slower acceleration.
The 2010-2013 models present problems in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system (needs to be cleaned every 150,000 miles).
Not rated for towing, though some people adventure to do so without issues for a not-so-heavy load. source source

Information about trims here

Spaciousness. You can sleep inside the car comfortably, and the head space is also pretty good. Lots of storage under the seat.
Chain driven engine, no need for belt changes.
5 stars safety rating (VSRR 2024).
Taller ride.
Longer axis, so more stable ride.