Overview & Reviews

As with many of Toyota's vehicles, the Prius (from the Latin "to go before") has become a standard-bearer in its segment. While many automakers' hybrid models are still in their nascent stages, Toyota's Prius is already well into its third generation. This four-door hatchback hybrid has become a hit with consumers because of its stellar fuel economy, spacious cabin, relatively uncompromised driving characteristics and reasonable price.

Due to its popularity and relatively long sales history, Toyota's original hybrid car is a strong candidate for a shopper interested in a used hybrid vehicle. Pleasingly, Toyota's solid reputation for reliability and durability is holding true for the Prius. However, potential buyers of a used Prius should take extra care during the research process. As the Toyota Prius is quite complex, future repairs and part replacements could be quite expensive.

Current Toyota Prius
In its first decade of production, the compact Prius hatchback was the sole version available. But now, a subcompact Prius C, a larger Prius V wagon and a plug-in variant of the standard Prius are offered (and covered in separate reviews). With the introduction of these newer models, the standard Prius is often referred to as the Prius hatchback or liftback.

The Toyota Prius' hybrid powertrain consists of a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that's used in conjunction with two electric motors and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Total system power is 134 horsepower, and fuel economy rates an impressive 50 mpg combined.

There are four Prius trim levels: Two, Three, Four and Five. Standard feature highlights for the Prius Two include keyless ignition/entry, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface and an iPod/USB audio interface. The Three adds a rearview camera, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system and a navigation system. The Four gains a power driver seat, heated front seats, faux leather upholstery and an upgraded stereo. The Five has larger alloy wheels and advanced LED headlamps. Options vary depending on trim level, but include a solar-powered ventilation system, an aerodynamic body kit, a sport-tuned suspension, a head-up display, an upgraded navigation system, adaptive cruise control and a lane-departure warning system.

Under full acceleration, both gasoline and electric power sources work together to provide maximum propulsion. In stop-and-go traffic, the Prius usually runs on battery power alone, which maximizes fuel economy. Under deceleration, the electric motors switch to generator mode, recharging the car's batteries. As expected, performance is far from exciting, but adequate for passing and merging onto highways. The Prius' space-efficient hatchback body provides a surprisingly roomy backseat and cargo area, making it a plausible replacement for a family sedan or compact SUV. The Prius' main downsides are a potentially uncomfortable driving position for taller drivers, excessive road noise and disappointing interior materials quality.

Used Toyota Prius Models
The current third-generation Toyota Prius debuted for 2010. Its general shape remained largely unchanged compared to the previous generation, though the sheet metal took on a more sculpted character. The interior received a more radical overhaul, with a more conventional center control stack and the hybrid system display relocated high on the dash. It's also a bit more comfortable for taller drivers, thanks to a height-adjustable seat and a telescoping steering wheel, though still not great. Changes have been very minor since. The pre-2012 models lack a few features offered on later versions such as power front seats and the Entune smartphone integration system.

The second-generation Toyota Prius was produced for the 2004-'09 model years. It sat five people in a four-door hatchback body that provided extra versatility in terms of carrying items. This Prius' hybrid powertrain was the same in concept as the current third-generation model, but it featured a smaller, 1.5-liter gasoline engine that produced 76 hp and 82 pound-feet of torque. With the electric motor spinning out power, peak net hp was 110.

Aside from its hybrid system upgrades, most buyers will find the interior to be the biggest area of difference between the second-generation model and the current Prius. The dashboard and controls were unconventional and futuristic, with stereo, climate, vehicle system and optional navigation controls residing in a touchscreen interface. There were steering wheel buttons for frequently used items, but ultimately, too much was put under the jurisdiction of the touchscreen (which could wash out in sunlight). The odd gear-selector action of today's Prius was carried over from this generation, but then it was mounted on the dash. Another important difference to note is the lack of a telescoping steering wheel and height adjustment, making for an even more awkward driving position for taller people.

During its successful tenure in Toyota's lineup, this second-generation Prius received minor changes. For 2006, a back-up camera, leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and an auxiliary audio jack were added to the options list. A Prius Touring model was added the following year with a slightly firmer "sport" suspension, different 16-inch alloy wheels, a larger rear lip spoiler and several optional items. Side and side curtain airbags also became standard across the board. A "standard" trim level, which lacks cruise control and heated mirrors but in exchange had a significantly lower base price, was added for 2008.

In reviews of the Toyota Prius, our editors have cited outstanding mileage, ultralow emissions, hatchback utility and a reasonable price as the car's greatest strengths. Downsides include soft handling characteristics at highway speeds and, compared to regular midsize sedans, unimpressive maximum acceleration. Most Prius owners say their cars typically achieve real-world mpg ratings in the mid-40s.

The original Prius debuted in the North American market for the 2001 model year. However, Toyota had been selling it in Japan since 1997. This model was the second hybrid vehicle available to U.S. consumers after the Honda Insight. In just about every aspect, the original Prius has been eclipsed by the second-generation car. The first-generation Toyota is slower, smaller and not as comfortable.

Though less advanced than those in the newer generations, the older Prius' powertrain still paired a gasoline engine with an electric motor. Its 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine made 70 hp at 4,500 rpm and 82 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The electric drive motor was worth another 44 peak hp.

User Reviews:

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  2004 Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Richard Campbell - August 18 - 10:00 am

  All I need to say is test drive one, that is all it took for me. Luckly I ordered mine before the real hit took place, I only had to wait two months for delivery. We drove the car from Washington state to California and only stopped for gas once. It went through the Siskiyou mountain range as if it were flat, plenty of power and handled the curves with ease. The car gets an A+ from me!

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  Prius - the only car to buy - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By paccpa2830 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  This car handles the freeway, city and everything in between with ease - a great car.

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  Poor Gas Milage - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Russ Lefevre - August 16 - 2:46 pm

  I purchased a high end Prius with the all the features in 6/08. Started out getting 46 mpg. to 44mpg.Then 3 month later it went down to 30mpg to 34mpg. tops. Brought back to dealer they checked it out & said they could find anything wrong. My Nav unit reads Im getting around 36 mpg. But when you do the math after a fill up its getting 30 to 32 mpg.

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  2008 Prius - An Honest Review - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By cyberfogey - August 16 - 10:50 am

  First of all, lets get past the looks! I was put off for over a year before buying solely because I wasnt thrilled about the exterior looks. You get over that as soon as you drive it. The interior is very roomy and comfortable. Just close the door and you can feel the Toyota quality. I was surprised at the actual acceleration, as much as I will ever need. The technology is very different and takes some getting used to. After 2 months I still find myself reaching for a gear shift lever to put it in park! The glare on the front window can be eliminated by simply turning down the dashboard dimmer switch a little. Practice backing with an empty trash can behind you. Stop waiting! Buy it!

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  Worlds worst seats!! - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By APH - August 15 - 8:46 am

  I must say that overall Im quite happy with my Prius-look, performance, gas mileage-but what the heck was Toyota thinking with those seats?! I eagerly took my brand new Prius on a 200 mile r/t roadtrip (one I do every month) to upstate NY. About 1/2 hr into my ride my back started hurting and my tailbone began throbbing. By the time I got back home that evening, I was in serious agony! I cant believe Toyota put so much attention into the technology-bluetooth, reverse cameras, smart key, the entire hybrid system-and the seats were just a mere afterthought! No lumbar support? Really???? Now Im in the market for some seats that dont feel like rocks so I can tolerate my 80 mile r/t commute!

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  As Advertised And More - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By bob in ohio - August 14 - 1:00 pm

  This car looks great. Smooth ride. Plenty of power. No you do not have to plug it in. Do not relly know its a hybrid from power. Inside it is more roomy than it looks like from the outside. Very comfortable, and I am not a small guy. The mileage jumps even more after about the first 1500 miles, the break-in period. I just drove round trip 353 miles, including much city driving. I averaged 50.2 miles per gallon, with A/C on. Reliable, as in any Toyota. Cannot go wrong with this car.

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  In a class all by itself - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Rickb - August 12 - 7:20 pm

  Toyota has produced a car that provides roominess, comfort and performance. Most importantly, it does so with great gas mileage and a lowered carbon footprint. Fun to drive, flexibility of a hatchback, and loads of safety features. They hit a home run with this one!

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  Why I hate my Prius - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By yorfutrxhsbnd - August 12 - 3:40 pm

  I am averaging about 29 mpg in city driving. Admittedly my trips tend to be quite short, but I am by no means driving with a heavy foot. I often coast for blocks when I anticipate a light changing ahead, accelerate slowly, but it seems to make little difference. The car has been tested 3 times so far and the dealerships say it is fine. Since the only reason for leasing this car as opposed to less expensive vehicles was for mileage, I am very disappointed. While the car is quite comfortable and the interior functional, the stereo is of very poor quality. And, contrary to an assertion made, adding a subwoofer improves, but does definitely NOT transform the sound.

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  The Lowest Polluting Car on the Plant - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By cwlowry01 - August 11 - 11:20 pm

  I purchased a Toyota Prius not just because it gets good gas mileage but also because it is one of the lowest polluting production cars available. My MPG varies from 39.6 to 50.1 depending on the traffic conditions and my driving practices. The 50.1 was obtained while driving a steady 60-65 mph for a distance of 1000 miles. Given its size I also find it a surprisingly comfortable car to drive over long distances. I am less tired after driving for 8-10 hours than I have been in a standard size sedan. Also, it has all the creatures comforts you could want. This is especially true of the newer Prius. One change I did make that improved the ride was to put on a set of 80,000 mile tires.

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  Super - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By William J. Gray - August 10 - 9:03 am

  We got this car because of the advertised gas mileage. We checked out both Honda and Toyota hybirds. This one was rated higher. The mileage is great. We took a trip to Forida right after we got it and averaged about 50 miles on the first tank on the trip. We then got 55 on the way back. It is smooth to drive and pick up is there when you need it. We now get 50 mpg or better and only fill the tank every 2 weeks and that is with 5.5 to 6 gallons. Sure alot cheaper than our other cars.