2002 Toyota Prius Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
78 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Initially offered as a single specification with no factory options, Toyota's advanced gasoline/electric hybrid now offers a choice of several new options for 2002. These include a navigation system, cruise control, side airbags and daytime running lights. There are also two new colors: Brilliant Blue and Blue Moon Pearl.

Pros:
  • Environmentally sound sedan, competitive price, full load of equipment, excellent warranty coverage.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 78.00
  • More than what it looks like - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The acceleration and response was better than I expected, although it still revs pretty high going up hills and merging onto freeways. Once on the highway, I can cruise along at 70 no problem. Five mid-sized adults can legitimately fit; headroom in the back is exceptional for a small sedan. Ive found synthetic oil improves gas mileage, as well as keeping tires inflated to the upper recommended limit. Consumer Reports said it had acceptable side crash results. Trunk space is modest, but deep enough to fit large suitcases. An excellent first car / commuter car.

  • New to Me - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Im the 2nd owner of this car. I love it! I rated it lower in performance b/c it is not a sports car. It will handle great for everyday needs. You will not lack for power getting on the freeway or getting up to speed. It is great to be cruising along and get an immediate feedback of what your mileage is. With gas prices what they are, this car has helped me drive the speed limit and save money. Lots of fun to drive, great on the hills here in So.Cali.

  • Love the Prius! - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I have owned this car since May 2002 and I absolutely love it. Im so happy I got it before the big "prius craze" began. I paid $20K for it -- just about have to double that to get one these days. Im in that mode where Im ready for a new car, but am not willing to give up the perks of owning this car. My only regret is that I didnt get the GPS system - boy how I wish I had! Ill probably keep this car longer than any other -- my gas mileage varies between 37 and 47 mpg depending on the time of year.

  • Very Reliable - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The car is very reliable, no repair problems. It gets plenty of pickup for daily trips over the mountians. The heavy wind does pose a stability problem, as it gets buffeted around. Also, the tires are a little unstable on bad pavement, causing the car to be squirely.

  • Love my Prius - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    If youre looking for a solid 4-door sedan in the $20,000 range, I dont think there is any other "moral" choice these days than to get a Prius. It is roomy, handles reasonably well, and at 45 - 50 mpg, it cant be beat! The only thing to watch out for is how it handles in snow. Since we live in the San Fran area, we havent had to try that.

  • Great gas mileage!!!!! - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The Prius has great gas mileage! The highest I have acheived is 58.8. It has surprising power too. I had five adults in the car with the A/C on, while passing 18-wheelers. There are problems with it. On my car, the build quality has been disappointing, and so has the reliability. It is in the shop now for a new rack-and-pinion.

  • Disappointing - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Bought this car used. Wonderful first year. Very happy and proud to drive this car. Saved a lot of money in gas. Only averaged 37 mpg, less than I thought. Then check engine light came on. Cost $1200 to replace 12 volt battery and brakes. 2 weeks later light came on again. Dealer service said codes indicated I need new main battery cost is $3600.00. Called back 2 days later was told problem wasnt battery but transaxle, new cost $4600.00. All the money I saved in gas is shot to hell in one repair. It is outrageously expensive to repair this car. No more Prius for me. I no longer have faith in the car or the techs ability to diagnose and solve problems.

  • 109,300 miles, 11 years - reliable, but not as long lasting as other Toyota cars - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Have had this car since 2004 CPO buy -- early adopter on hybrid technology. Excellent reliability, with caveats. MPG ranged from 45 to 50 MPG in the first 4-5 years -- huge money saver for someone commuting in heavy Los Angeles traffic. Main hybrid battery replaced under warranty around 80K just under 10 year warranty; again replaced battery around 90K after replacement battery saw failed battery cell (replaced by Toyota out of warranty, no charge, for failure analysis @ factory). Currently getting 39 to 45 MPG -- but have had an unexplained failure to start. No other major repairs. Great car, but dont think will get it to the 250K+ you can get from other non-hybrid Toyotas.

  • This is The One! - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Great vehicle. No negatives. Design and workmanship superior. Dont wait for anything better---this is it!

  • Best choice (after the wife) - 2002 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I think my Prius was truly the best auto I have purchased.This car has been much better than any talk I have heard. It gets great mileage 48 to 62 regularly, is very easy to drive and handles very well on the highway such as in the back draft of large trucks. I gave my 98 Toyota to my son and park my truck most of the time. I will buy another if this one wears out. The trouble is I like the sedan and all I see now are hatchbacks? Come on Toyota more sedans. I want a trunk. Robert

Toyota Prius Reviews By Year:
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