4 Star Reviews for 2004 Toyota Prius

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.78/5 Average
435 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2004 Toyota Prius is completely redesigned with a larger overall size, more power, better mileage and even more available features.

Pros:
  • Outstanding mileage, ultralow emissions, hatchback utility, reasonable price, excellent build quality.
Cons:
  • Less power and room than other midsize sedans, center-mounted gauges not intuitive.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 435.00
  • Jacks update - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Just returned from a 4200 mile trip to TX and rtn to CA. Traveled Rte I-40, altitude 7334 plus, on problems. averaged 45 MPG for the trip driving 70 - 75 MPH.

  • we liked it - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    It sits higher and gives a good driving view. We liked the center console video touch screen. We were suprised at the acceleration. We rented this vehicle for 3 days and it made us want to check it out again when we buy a new vehicle.

  • The best car I ever owned - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Its fast, its sturdy and its a joy to drive. Ive had zero, nada problems in the first forty thousand miles. It has handled the highest passes in Colorado and scoots in and out of traffic in Louisiana with ease. One small issue is the advertised gas mileage. The best I ever achieved was 52.5 but mostly average about forty- five. Still not too bad but no where near the sixty MPG promised. Im 65", weigh 300 pounds and have no difficulty with its roominess. Plenty of head room and seats four comfortably. My big Lincoln sits garage, where it shall remain until gas prices become reasonable again.

  • Immediate decision thanks to internet - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    General impression is very positive but after 800 miles I had a flat auxilliary battery without any apparent reason, which was covered by the warranty. This is the first new car I bought in 50 years after only a few hours surfing on the internet, usually I required weeks to study/compare brochures and could still not decide. The trial trip was a formality and hardly spoke to salesman who knew less than I as the car was introduced in the Netherlands only a few days before; bought the only available showroom car as another dealer had then already delivery time of 4+ months

  • Be careful with fuel gauge! - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    MPGs very dependent on outside temperature and amount of hills you encounter. Surprisingly good amount of interior room and comfort. Only problem is the fuel gauge. Ive discovered that consistently when I have a flashing E signifying empty I still have a third of a tank left. The fuel tank capacity varies with temperature, can be as little over 9 gallons. Running out of gas is not good for this hybrid and the dealer had to recalibrate. Dealer has done nothing and Toyota headquarters states that they are "working on" problem

  • Somewhat Disappointed - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    This is just a beautifully designed, comfortable, intriguing vehicle. But my feelings are overshadowed by one thing: the poor gas mileage. You may not feel the same. I think it depends on one thing: what is your PRIMARY purpose in buying the vehicle? Mine was fuel economy. So that was the essence of my bargain. I only got 34 mpg on the first two full tanks. On my third tank I am babying my driving to milk every last mile out of a gallon and looks like Ill get 40 mpg with total concentration on fuel economy. Bottom line: be mindful of the true gas mileage when you buy.

  • Learning to Slow Down - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The car has never failed to please - except with the HVAC system and interface - which is clearly not up to the challenges of upstate NY in the winter. Stock tires leave a lot to be deired in traction and handling -get four snow tires from tirerack. Actual mileage has averaged out to 41.8 MPG. Trust me - your driving habits will change to accomodate the car. It appreciates speeds of =< 62 and is happiest with a commute lasting at least 20 minutes, particularly when the weather is colder than 40. It takes that long for the battery stack to come up to temp and effectively contribute to moving the car.

  • Like this car, but have had problems - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I was one of first in my area to purchase this model. For the first 18 months it was a great car, although the display needed to be replaced. Then it broke down on me (computer failure) at 18 months (15,000 miles). The computer was replaced, and immediately my MPG went down significantly. My 54 MPG highway went to 44 MPG highway for the same route (same seasonal temperature). My local MPG went from 41 to 35 MPG. Dealer thought the software recall/upgrade would help but it has not. Others seem to report this problem. Dealer has not offered any solutions. Aside from these problems, I have enjoyed this car, but I want my great MPG back!

  • Dominos Prius Update! - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Wrote a review about my Dominos stores Prius! Updating it! We now have 3 Priuss! Two 04s and an 05! The one I wrote about before is an 04 which now has 220k mi on it and still no problems! It never breaks down or gives up! And it gets driven HARD by many different drivers! The battery still holds charge pretty well, not quite as well as our other Priuss but still returns over 50mpg if driven frugally. Our other 04 Prius has 160k mi and runs great! Same with our 05 that has 120k mi! These vehicles are workhorses! You want a reliable, affordable commuter or work car! This is the one! If it can deliver pizzas, it can do anything!

  • Godd car, so far - 2004 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Great car with lots of room. Plenty of power. Im consistently getting 50mpg combined.

Toyota Prius Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area