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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  Simply the best car. - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Priusowner - January 15 - 10:00 am

  Edmunds has overlooked the 2004 Prius. It has made driving more enjoyable. The gas mileage is great but the main feature that attracted me was the style and feel of the drive. The seats are very well constructed and comfortable. Edmunds said that the Prius has a low resale value, evidently the facts didnt get in the way of that reviewers opinion. I have found used Prius cars in my area selling for near what new ones do, not to mention the price of the 2004 Prius has climbed in the last 7 months, some people are paying thousands over sticker.

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  Solid performer - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By Brian Kissel - January 12 - 10:52 pm

  Very economical, ecological, spacious car. Definitely a trade-off in the "fun to drive" category, but it does what it was built to do very well.

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  The Truth about the PRIUS - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By T.J. - January 12 - 6:46 pm

  I have over 9000 miles on the prius 2.I really enjoy driving this car.In the winter mileage is about 44 to 48mpg and in the summer 50 to 52 mpg with mixed driving. A couple of rattles in the winter around dash area that go away when the temp warms up.We have 4 vehicles but after driving a car that gets this mileage I dont want to drive the others.The brakes were updated by the dealer but when the anti-lock comes on they do not grab. I have another appt with dealer. I have owned over 150 cars so its not me making something up but a problem with the hybrid braking system. For 22,000.00 and no sales tax I think its a good value. To spend more money I would purchase the hybrid ford fusion.

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  Gary W - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By gswolfe9 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Toyota has another winner! This vehicle is surprisingly lively for a 1.5L engine. handling is that of a much heavier car; very solid. A little limited on cargo space but still able to transport a wheel chair. Ideal for around town driving and excellent milage on hiway.

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  Efficient, hi-tech, comfortable - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By katherine - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Very fun to drive, and never fails to interest passengers. Zero problems after one year. Handles very well in snow. Wasnt expecting such a huge improvement over previous vehicle (1992 Saturn SL1), but got it in all areas. Feels solid and safe.

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  We Love Miss P! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By gustafsonjohnc - January 3 - 5:23 am

  I was skeptical when we first got Miss P. last year. I had never driven a small car and I was afraid it would not perform well on the highway. Was I wrong. She keeps up with any other car. We drove her to Florida (from Virginia) and we were able to pack plenty of luggage. Passengers have remarked how roomy and comfortable she is.

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  Awesome car - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By USMCMOM - January 1 - 9:00 pm

  We test drove this car and I fell in love with it. This car is just totally awesome. I am averaging about 45 miles/gal. I like the looks I get when driving it. The inside is roomy, my 6 ft, 1 in. hubby fits in the back with plenty of leg room. I have never looked forward to driving a car as much as I do this one.

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  Still feels unique - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By Kat Ann - January 1 - 10:00 am

  I love this car, the smooth ride, shut down at stop lights, quiet but quick acceleration. I average 40 mpg. Toyota should say mileage will improve as car breaks in. In tough weather, mileage drops slightly in relation to use of defrost/air co. and unlike other hybrids does not shut off at stop lights! I came up a very ]steep hill w 6" snow and moving slowly I rode to the top without a problem. Narrow tires are stable in snow, not in mud. Would I buy it again? Definitely.

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  Im so glad I have this car! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Monique - January 1 - 4:36 am

  I just bought this car in July and it is so fun. Everything is so visual. I drove through California and at times got 50 to 55 mpgs depending if i was going down hill. Other times, i got between 35-45. I love the navigation system and the fact that you dont actually need to use your key to get in and start. As long as you have it on your person, you can access it. This car has excellent stability and smooth driving. I had no problem accelerating to pass cars if i needed to. There are a lot of great features to this car, but my favorite is the gas mileage. This is the best investment Ive ever made and I am looking forward to my $2000 tax rebate next year.

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  Great commuter - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By perfectstorm1 - January 1 - 12:16 am

  Replaced 230K mile Camry which hardly made 25 MPG and lots of repair cost at the end. It drives high 40s (46 to 49 MPG) in winter weather. Cannot wait for warm weather to test Sunroof/fan feature. It drives fine at highway, and corners very well (not much leaning).