Are there any real differences in the 04-07 model that would make one or another a better car to buy? I am familiar with the mileage and condition differences, but am looking for actual model differences. Thanks to all.
Do you mean whether there is a difference between a 2004 Prius and a 2007 Prius? The specs for accesories may have changed in those years. For example in the UK the sound system was upgraded to the JBL system in late 2006, and Intelligent Parking Assist system became standard in the top of the range T Spirit from January 2007. In the US I think you need the annual ebrochures found at the foot of Used Prius: Find a used Toyota Prius from Toyota Certified Used Vehicles | Toyota.com will answer your questions.
The 2006-2009 is the same car. Compared to the earlier Gen2 the MFD is higher res, the dash surface is textured, and the traction control is more sure footed. The 2006-2009 has hybrid badging on the front fenders & the tail light tips are clear, not black. Starting in 2007 a Touring was available with larger tires, larger spoiler, and different suspension.
https://priuschat.com/forums/knowle...andard-optional-equipment-some-countries.html might help. The US never got IPA on any 2nd gen Prius. Yep on the above, although the MFD could be lower res on really stripped down 06+ models (I know, I've been in a couple). Tideland says that on 06+, w/o the backup camera, you get the low res, old MFD. The tape deck was also ditched as a choice on 06+ models. The aux in jack, available from that point on is nice. 04-05 (only that range?) could have problems w/the MFD. See http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-...bleshooting/33923-mfd-issues-04-05-prius.html and Prius MFD.
Newer 2G Prius could have problems with the HID headlights. http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-ii-...-troubleshooting/34584-headlight-problem.html http://priuschat.com/forums/knowled...38842-how-change-headlamp-headlight-bulb.html
The rear seats in the 04-05 models are 1" higher and the seat upholstery is sewn together in a slightly different pattern.
A former coworker of mine bought one used w/o it (it was an 07 or 08). It was so stripped down, it had no aux in, the old MFD and no SKS. We have lots of Priuses used as shuttles at work which are that stripped down too (at least I can see the old MFD and lack of black buttons on the front door handles).
