4 Star Reviews for 2005 Toyota Prius

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.79/5 Average
607 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For the 2005 Toyota Prius, a rear wiper is now standard, the sun visor material has been changed from vinyl to fabric, and the Smart Entry and Start system has been renamed the Smart Key System.

Pros:
  • Outstanding mileage, ultralow emissions, generous amount of interior room, hatchback utility, reasonable price, excellent build quality.
Cons:
  • Less power than other midsize sedans, some confusing controls, real-world driving results in lower mileage than the window sticker suggests.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 607.00
  • Dont believe mileage claims - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I have had the Prius for a month. I love it except for two things. I am 6 foot 3 and it is hard to get into the vehicle because the steering wheel does not tilt up high enough. Once inside it is fine. To get 60 mpg you would have to fill up at the top of a mountain and then fill up again when you got to the bottom... there is no way. I am a very conservative driver and I am consistently getting 40 - 43 mpg. That is twice what I got in my previous vehicle but it is not what was advertised.

  • Phenomenal Gas Mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Gas mileage is not nearly what is displayed on the sticker... BUT 48 mpg in the city is not bad. Car is fun to drive and everyone asks about the vehicle and performance.

  • Changing driving habits - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The most rmearkable thing about the Prius is the changes it creates in my dirving habits. With the computer read out giving mpg and speed information, I am much more aware of driving at maximum efficiency, rather than focusing on getting someplace in a period of time. I arrive much more relaxed and satsfied that I have minimized my fuel consumption.

  • Not for TALL PEOPLE - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The Prius is an excellent car, however, before you buy it you should test-sit in it. The slanted roof makes it almost impossible for anyone over 510" to comfortable see out of the windshield. Depending on your body build, you must test-sit in this vehicle to make sure you can confortably and safely drive this car. If you can, GREAT!!! Because it is a GREAT CAR, but ONLY if you fit in it.

  • Purview of the Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I was intrigued by the technology of the Prius and other Hybrid vehicles. After owning other Toyota vehicles and the dependability I have had, it was a given that I wanted the Toyota brand of a Hybrid. I am not sorry that I purchased this vehicle. The performance, agility, and dependability of this vehicle assures me that I made the right decision in sticking with Toyota. Even with mileage not at EPA predicitons, I cannot complain at what I average. Comfort is great and the ride feels like what the Camry delivers.

  • Mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    We traded our 2003 Camry for the Prius, and there is substantial difference in the two vehicles. The most being the ride and the power. I purchased the car without having test driven one, which I have never done before. The salesman told me that 90% of buyers have not. The biggest reason for purchasing the Prius was Fuel Mileage. I am pleased with the fuel mileage, but it isnt getting what I had expected. It is getting 45-48 on the hwy and around 43 city. I am not sure why it is not getting better in the city, but I think a part of it is my wifes driving style. I have about 2500 miles on it so far, and the dealer told me that I wont see the best mileage until gets over 5000 miles.

  • Midwest to Calif & Back - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Passing was good in the flat lands. Average speed 65-75 Mph. Gas milwage avg 41-49 mpg. Crossing the Rockies and certain areas in Utah with 6% grades could only get 52 mph and the engine was really screaming. I was real concerned about getting over the top of the hill. Next time Ill take the southern route to Calif. Interior needs something better then cloth, it got spotted up when I opened the door during a mild rain storm. Ext surface seems to scratch easily. Careful with the high pressure hose in the car wash. Dont get too close to the paint surface and dont use the soap brush. Get bird poop off of the car right away. Other then the above Im happy and would buy another one.

  • Commuting Pleasure - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Great fun to drive, much better handling than expected. Have to keep an eye on the speedometer - easy to drive at high speeds without noticing. Fuel economy has been better than anticipated started out at 42 mi/gal, now getting mid 50s on a regular basis. I sent $30 on gas last month - with a 40 mile round trip commute in stop and go traffic. I am very happy with the car overall, it is roomy and comfortable with lots of cargo space.

  • Life is funny... Great car, great mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    When I was young, it was all about trying to break the land speed record. Now that Im 40ish, its all about squeezing the most out of a gallon of gas. This car has a lot more gitty-up than youd expect. In terms of MPG, which is why we buy these cars, my overall is averaging about 46 MPG, BUT, I understand that this figure is supposed to go up as the car is broken in. I have noticed that my last 3 tanks have resulted in higher MPG with each new fill up. In terms of the extras, well, its unbelievable. Oh, and I just applied for the California sticker that will allow me to drive in the carpool lane without a passenger.

  • More than expected - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I was expecting great gas mileage, I was expecting legendary Toyota quality. I was not expecting the power that this sub 100 horsepower engine put out. Very quick acceleration considering it has something like 73 HP. Very good cargo space, seats folding flat is a great plus as well. Car drives very smooth, and handling is responsive. Car seems to have a very light but noticable shift/transition from electric power to gas. Overall a great car, I would rate a 8.5 out of 10. Gas mileage is amazing and get up and go is more than adequate. Would recommend.

Toyota Prius Reviews By Year:
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