3 Best Toyotas for a Cheap Driving
If you think about reliability, the first name that comes to mind is that of the great Japanese automaker, Toyota. Having sold millions of cars and established an iconic name, Toyota has also enabled people to buy quality & affordable cars.
Let’s have a look at the best Toyota cars, which are not just cheaper to buy, but economical to run and maintain as well. Toyota, being the pioneer of hybrid technology, is no short of quality and affordable vehicles in its portfolio.
1. Toyota Corolla
One of the most well-known cars in the world and a top choice of the majority of buyers, Toyota has managed to sell 10 million corollas since its birth in the 70s. This speaks volumes about its image, quality, and durability. Corolla is a gasoline-powered compact sedan with 4 doors, a generously sized trunk, a dependable engine, and top safety features.
Which Year Corolla is the Best?
The 2020 Toyota Corolla is the best model year, the 12th generation of the legendary car. Based on Toyota’s latest TNGA frame, packed with the latest safety and driver assistance features, it is the best corolla to choose. The 12th gen Corolla also got a hybrid powertrain and upgraded driving dynamics with the all-new engine and chassis.
How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Toyota Corolla?
- Oil change: $115
- Filters (air, oil, and fuel): $220
- Brake fluid and pads: $280
- Cost of a tire: $225
- Engine service and tune-up: $150-200
- Gear oil: $150
All these prices are inclusive of labor charges.
Yearly Running Cost of a Toyota Corolla
The average yearly running cost of a Toyota Corolla is $1,300. This includes fuel and some minor repairs.
Performance
Engine: 2.0L Dual VVT-i, inline 4-cylinder engine producing 158 HP.
Transmission: CVT and manual, both available
MPG: 32 city/ 38 highway
0-100 timing: 8.2 seconds
Toyota Corolla vs. Other Vehicles’ Maintenance Cost
On average, a 2020 Toyota Corolla costs $375 in maintenance and repairs per year, as compared to the $650 required for other vehicles in the market.
All these facts signify the fact that Corolla is one of the most popular and economical to run cars in the market. With cheap parts, economical maintenance and repairs, and one of the lowest running costs, you’d get much more than just the reliability with the 2020 Toyota Corolla.
Also read: Where is Toyota Manufactured? (The Full List)
2. Toyota Camry Hybrid
Whenever sales are discussed at Toyota, the name that’s always on the top I Camry. Toyota Camry has been dazzling its buyers and enthusiasts for over 4 decades now.
The mid-size sedan has been the top seller in its segment for years and whenever longevity in the automobile world will be discussed, Camry would be used as a reference. Apart from great comfort, technology, and power, Camry has now embraced sustainability and fuel efficiency initiatives by launching the hybrid powertrain. Luxury and convenience are now available in the budget bracket.
Which Year Camry is the Best?
The 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid is the best model year, the 8th generation of the market-leading, most popular car. Using Toyota’s latest unibody and lightweight frame and stuffed with the latest safety and driver assistance technology, it is the best and most affordable Camry to pick. The 8th gen Camry with a hybrid powertrain achieves some unreal mileage figures and is not expensive to maintain over the years. Let’s understand why it’s the Americas’ most loved mid-size sedan.
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How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Toyota Camry Hybrid?
- Oil change: $145
- Filters (air, oil, and fuel): $235
- Brake fluid and pads: $310
- Cost of a tire: $240
- Hybrid battery service: $200-275
- Hybrid battery replacement (10-years): $800-1,000
- Gear oil: $180
All these prices are inclusive of labor charges.
Yearly Running Cost of a Toyota Camry Hybrid
The average yearly running cost of a Toyota Camry hybrid is $900 – $1,000. This includes fuel and some minor repairs costs incurred throughout the year.
Performance
Engine: 2.5L, inline 4-cylinder hybrid engine producing 208 HP.
Transmission: CVT
MPG: 48 city/ 56 highway
0-100 timing: 6 seconds
Top Speed: 135 mph
Toyota Camry vs. Other Vehicles’ Maintenance Cost
On average, a 2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid costs $390 in maintenance and repairs per year, as compared to the $650 required for other vehicles in the market.
Despite its size, capability, and the comfort it offers, 50 MPG figures and meager maintenance costs make it a very lucrative option in the market. Camry is also one of the most reliable vehicles to own, with decades of serving capability and having stood the test of time. 2019 Toyota Camry ticks all the boxes on anybody’s wish list effortlessly and is one of the best Toyotas for cheap driving.
Also read: Mazda vs Toyota: Which Brand is More Reliable?
3. Toyota Prius
When the world was wondering about fuel economy and mileage, Toyota took a bold step and launched the Prius. The world’s first mass-market hybrid vehicle, a car with an internal combustion engine, augmented by hybrid batteries and a motor.
The technology bamboozled the industry and buyers with its unparalleled economy, sleek performance, silent and comfortable drive, negligible emissions, and running costs. Prius is still the gold standard in hybrid vehicles and a household name around the world. With Prius as your daily runner, forget about stopping by at filling stations that often.
Which Year Prius is the Best?
The 2018 Toyota Prius is the best model year, the 4th generation of the trendsetter in the hybrid car industry. Prius has a state-of-the-art battery & motor technology, driver assistance, and safety features, and it is also the most lightweight Prius. The 4th generation Prius has some staggering mileage figures, almost no harmful emissions, and a comfortable cabin for smooth driving. Let’s get to know why it is at the top of the hybrid and economy pyramid.
How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Toyota Camry Hybrid?
- Oil change: $135
- Filters (air, oil, and fuel): $210
- Brake fluid and pads: $290
- Cost of a tire: $220
- Hybrid battery service: $200-275
- Hybrid battery replacement (10-years): $800-1,000
- Gear oil: $180
All these prices are inclusive of labor charges.
Yearly Running Cost of a Toyota Camry Hybrid
The average yearly running cost of a Toyota Camry hybrid is $800 – 950. Which includes fuel and some minor repairs costs incurred throughout the year.
Also read: 3 Best Lexus for Daily Driving (With Photos)
Performance
Engine: 1.8L, inline 4-cylinder hybrid engine producing 121 HP.
Transmission: CVT
MPG: 50 city/ 62 highway
0-100 timing: 9.6 seconds
Top Speed: 112 mph
Toyota Prius vs. Other Vehicles’ Maintenance Cost
On average, a 2019 Toyota Prius costs $410 in maintenance and repairs per year, as compared to the $650 required for other vehicles in the market.
Despite its subjective styling, a spaceship-like interior, and nimble driving, the 2018 Toyota Prius conquers one ground it was birthed for! the fuel efficiency. Amazingly quiet engine and superb economy, Prius is among one of the most comfortable cars to drive and is a pinnacle of technological innovation. 2018 Toyota Prius would suffice your need for a cheap daily driver and a reliable partner on road, and it is one of the best Toyotas for cheap driving.
Why Corolla Over Hybrids?
Although Both Prius and Camry have better fuel economy and driving pleasure, there are certain factors that make Corolla the best choice;
- Corolla is cheaper to purchase and has lower maintenance costs as compared to Camry and Prius.
- The hybrid powertrain is tough and expensive to maintain, while a Corolla would never spend extra time in a workshop.
- Hybrid batteries also require replacement after 8-10 years, which is expensive.
- Corolla has simpler technology that is understood by most of the mechanics and can be repaired roadside. While Camry and Prius have complicated machinery under the hood which requires expert attention. But don’t worry, Toyotas are known for reliability and not gonna trouble you if maintained properly.
