While many Toyota Prius owners are opting for another hybrid vehicle when it comes time to replace their cars, the Prius stands out as the top choice for loyalty, according to data from used-car retailer CarMax. In fact, more than 38% of CarMax customers who own a Prius end up purchasing another Prius, making it the model with the highest loyalty in CarMax’s inventory.
### Toyota Prius Continues to Lead in Customer Loyalty
The Prius has overtaken the Chevrolet Corvette, which previously held the title for the highest model loyalty in CarMax’s surveys in 2017. Moreover, Toyota emerged as the brand with the highest loyalty, with 28.5% of current Toyota owners opting for another Toyota vehicle. This places Toyota ahead of luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, which had the highest brand loyalty in CarMax’s 2017 survey.
### Shift in Prius Owners’ Preferences
Interestingly, there appears to have been a change in Prius owners’ preferences since the last survey conducted by CarMax. Previously, Prius owners were trading in their vehicles for electric vehicles (EVs) like the Nissan Leaf. However, data now indicates that Prius owners are more likely to stick with hybrid vehicles, with Toyota emerging as the most traded-in brand for EVs.
### Rise in Popularity of Plug-In Hybrids
CarMax’s analysis also revealed a rise in prices for used plug-in hybrids and a significant increase in search volume for these vehicles in 2022. However, the popularity of plug-in hybrids seemed to have peaked that year, as consumers were likely influenced by the upcoming eligibility for used-EV tax credits.
### Prius Maintains its Appeal in the Age of Electric Vehicles
While Honda and Toyota customers have been transitioning to Tesla in recent years, the Prius continues to hold its own as a favored choice for environmentally-conscious consumers. Despite the availability of affordable long-range EVs, the Prius remains a practical and frugal option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the Toyota Prius has not only retained its loyal customer base but has also proven to be a reliable and sustainable choice in the evolving automotive landscape. As the demand for environmentally-friendly vehicles continues to grow, the Prius remains a top contender for those seeking a hybrid option that combines efficiency, reliability, and eco-conscious design.