Strut assembly KONI or GABRIEL

I've had several sets on many VW over the years , rocking them on my mk4 tdi now .

If you want to keep the stock ride height, you can probably save the stock springs and run Koni Yellow struts and shocks for a slightly sportier ride.

Something else to consider are Koni Reds. I coupled them with Neuspeed Sport springs. The struts are variable response so they absorb the small bumps, like the expansion joints on freeways, but stay stiff for corners.

I had one fail inside the warranty period and Koni made it an easy exchange. No other issues.

I did Gabriel struts/shocks on both gen3 prii. Would recommend.

Red is a great upgrade if you're keeping the factory ride height, they ride MUCH better than the factory Bilsteins.

I recently put some Gabriel quick struts on my 2008 minivan. Fitment was so good they didn’t change the alignment (I had a local shop check after the install). I’ve only driven on them for a month but the ride has been excellent so far.

I put Gabriel ready struts on. I like them. They are a more truck like ride. I tried some cheap RCS brand ones and I was literally bottoming in city streets with a lift kit lol. I would go Monroe if you want really smooth(never had them but that’s what I’ve heard), Gabriel a little more performance or if you tend to carry heavier stuff frequently.

No Monroe, never Monroe unless you need quick struts. KYB is okay but always stiffer than advertised imo. Gabriel is fine but I always aim for Bilstein or another respected aftermarket brand if I plan on keeping the car.

Autozone for example will sell you Gabriel brand quick struts which are easy to install - but they are not exact replacements, usually they are too floaty.

You’d probably do the car a disservice by fitting some of the aftermarket struts that are out there like Monroe or Gabriel, I’d recommend sticking to Honda OEM or KYB.