I recently starting to drive my 2007 {85,000miles) full package Prius....it seems to be getting less gas mileage {5-10 mpg} than my 2005 that I put 144,000 miles on and recently sold.....habits/tires/etc are the same... what's the big changes between these 2 Prius? did the engine, specs, etc change?? I'd expect the same or very similar results/mpg/etc with either car, am I correct? thanks Berkley
That is a great question as the experts I am sure will chime in. As I do not know of any build differences with the drive train, my thoughts are that there are many variables that would play a part in this but the results should not be that far apart. Could have old/wrong spark plugs, sticky brake caliper or parking brake, fuel/air filter clogged HV battery modules/modules weak, etc. 5 - 10 mpg is a big difference I would think. I would hook up the mini-VCI and take a look at things. TomK
I think the only changes where different front under paneling (it may or may not give better aerodynamics), chrome upper grill peace, front fender badges, different instrument cluster, different MFD, some changes in audio system, different surface on some interior parts, different rear lights, and some differences in options. There shouldn’t be any measurable difference in fuel economy.
The differences between model years are largely cosmetic. You are correct to expect similar mpg, therefore you need to look at what is wrong with the 2007. For example, dragging brakes, poor wheel alignment, tire pressure too low, engine oil viscosity and oil level, engine air filter is clogged, tires are not low rolling resistance design, to start.
I wouldn't draw any conclusions for a few months or at least 4 tanks. Make sure you compare calculated mpg off recites not the display. Don't forget to take temperatures into account. It's getting colder for some of us. Good luck.
Exactly what I said Patrick. Check all so call tune up things along with brakes and tire set up. As far as temperature he is in the same area as me and I am still getting low to mid 50's for mileage and it has not gone down yet from summer mileage so temperature is not the issue yet. TomK
thanks - just what I've come to expect from this site - real advice {you've been solid for 10+ yrs!}. .....I checked the air filter today it didn't "look" too bad but I'll start by changing it....and check the "fuel filter" if it has one {?}...I recently increased tire pressure to 42 front - 40 rear - {switched tires before the sell of '05}....could be the spark plug (will be changing it soon with fluid changes)....I always thought it was the way Chris {wife} drove,,,,but she never did "actual MPG" check, used the display, and we all know about how actuate that is.... I have most of the gas receipts from the '05, but tried not to think I was/am that anal, to calculate "actual MPG" LOL!!! I'lll keep checkin' --you keep commenting !! THANKS----aren't these cars fun!! quite a contrast with my '69 MGB (no-tech)!!! but I have to admit the "B"'s more fun driving it with the top down!! Berkley--
There is no engine nor other major change in 2007, but 2005 wheels....probably only had the 15-inch wheel option whereas 2007 you can get Touring version with 17-inch wheels.
I have a 2005 and a 2007. As others have said, they are virtually identical cars mechanically, with only minor changes that should not affect economy. My 2005 and 2007 are within 2MPG of each other in similar driving situations. If you're seeing a 10MPG difference, then there is an unknown contributing factor.
There is no other way to get accurate data. Anecdotal observation of the consumption screen is prone to error and "selective memory.
The Touring has 16" wheels and a different suspension. Since Op's tires are the same I don't think he has a 2007 Touring. The fuel filter is in the tank so that's not going to be replaced. 10mpg is too much for tp. I'd start by checking the brakes. Shouldn't need spark plugs.
