Toyota Mirai

Overview: Is the Toyota Mirai a Good Car?

The Toyota Mirai, introduced in the U.S. market for the 2016 model year, represents a pioneering step in alternative fuel vehicles. Keeping the effort alive, Toyota launched a sleeker, more upscale Mirai for 2021.

As a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), the Mirai operates on a unique principle: it combines hydrogen from its tanks with oxygen from the air to generate electricity, powering an electric motor while emitting only water vapor. This innovative approach offers the benefits of electric propulsion with the quick refueling times of conventional vehicles. Due to limited hydrogen infrastructure, Mirai sales have primarily been concentrated in California, where most hydrogen stations are located.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Toyota Mirai cars for sale.

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Related: Toyota Mirai Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Features

The Toyota Mirai offers:

• Midsize (first generation) or full-size (second generation) sedan body style
• Zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell powertrain
• Front-wheel drive (first generation) or rear-wheel drive (second generation)
• Driving range of up to 402 miles (second generation)
• Quick refueling times compared to battery electric vehicles
• Advanced driver assistance technologies

Trims

The second-generation Toyota Mirai is available in two trims, XLE and Limited, while the first generation was sold as a single-trim vehicle.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Toyota Mirai interior conveys a premium experience thanks to a quiet and refined cabin and the use of high-quality materials throughout. The first generation featured a futuristic layout, while the second generation adopted a more conventional luxury car interior. Both generations offer spacious seating and advanced infotainment systems. The latest Mirai includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and an optional JBL sound system. Cargo space is somewhat limited due to the hydrogen tank placement, but it’s still practical for daily use.

Review: The Toyota Mirai Years To Avoid

How It Drives

The Toyota Mirai delivers a smooth and quiet driving experience, characteristic of electric vehicles. The instant torque from the electric motor provides responsive acceleration, while the low center of gravity (due to the placement of hydrogen tanks) contributes to stable handling. The second-generation Mirai switched to a rear-wheel-drive platform, enhancing its driving dynamics. The Mirai's range of over 400 miles in the latest model addresses one of the main concerns of electric vehicle adoption. However, access to hydrogen stations remains a limiting factor in most areas, restricting interest in fuel-cell vehicles.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not tested the Toyota Mirai due to its low sales volume.

Reviews

Toyota Mirai reviews on Kelley Blue Book are quite poor. The first generation has an average rating of 2.3 out of 5 (most vehicles average in the 3.5 to 4.5 range), while the second-generation Mirai has a score of 3.2. Most of the low ratings involve the cost and accessibility of hydrogen fuel or less-than-promised vehicle range. Traditional Toyota's strong points, like reliability and value, also score low for this car.

Learn More: How Long Do Toyota Mirais Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Toyota Mirai FAQs

Is the Toyota Mirai fully electric?

The Toyota Mirai is an electric vehicle, but it's powered by a hydrogen fuel cell rather than a large battery pack. It uses hydrogen to generate electricity, which then powers an electric motor.

How long does a Toyota Mirai battery last?

The Toyota Mirai uses a small lithium-ion battery primarily for power management and to capture energy from regenerative braking. This battery is designed to last the vehicle's lifetime, similar to batteries in hybrid cars. The fuel cell stack, the primary power source, is also designed for long-term durability.

Can you put gas in a Toyota Mirai?

No, you cannot put gasoline in a Toyota Mirai. It runs exclusively on hydrogen fuel, which is stored in high-pressure tanks and used in the fuel cell to generate electricity.

How much hydrogen does it take to fill a Toyota Mirai?

When fully fueled, the second-generation Toyota Mirai can hold approximately 5.6 kg of hydrogen. Under ideal conditions, this amount of hydrogen provides a driving range of up to 402 miles.

What is the Toyota Mirai range?

The Toyota Mirai hydrogen car has a maximum range of 312 miles for the first generation and 402 miles for the second generation. Actual range can be affected by driving habits and road conditions.

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