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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  Prius review - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By R Howard - October 9 - 10:23 am

  I have the most fun with this car. I have never owned a car that Ive enjoyed more. I like to see how many mile per gallon I can get by the tank. So far the best Ive gotten is 56 mpg. Its just plain fun.

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  THREE MONTHS LATER - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By DPJR - October 8 - 5:56 pm

  Now that we have three months of driving our new Prius, we really enjoy driving it. Have taken a few road trips and it has performed very well. The mileage keeps on improving and I think the reason is that we are adjusting our driving habits. Our second vehicle is a Toyota Avalon and at times we forget which vehicle we are riding in. Remarkable automobile and we just love it. We will wait for the new generation of Prius with its 100 mpg possibility.

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  The ride you love to talk about. - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By GNiessen - October 8 - 10:00 am

  I love the Prius. On the occasions when I drive it to work I pickup passengers at the Park-n-ride to be able to take the HOV. I end up getting asked all about the Prius about 75% of the time. Even when one or both passenger have already ridden with me before, they have more questions. And everyone remember I am the one with the Hybrid.

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  More than I expected - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Bryan Killen - October 6 - 2:10 am

  This is easily the best car Ive ever owned, I love driving it. Its got plenty of room (Im 6 1"), surprising power, and the interior is top notch. Ill never own a conventional drivetrain car again, there arent any sacrifices because of the hybrid system. Plus, it drives like a car that costs thousands more. Power is seamless due to the high tech transmission.

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  After 2500 miles - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By jsw - October 5 - 12:43 am

  2 months later... its taken that long to get used to the drivers seat and call it comfortable. It is particularly spirited off-the-line until 40 mpg (the electric motors torque) 40-60 is a little dicey. Once on highway, this car can get out of traffic quickly. Mileage in mixed driving is around 42 mpg. I no longer worry about the gas bladder. I go plenty of miles before fill-up for very little money!

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  Boring Toyota - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By john - October 4 - 5:36 am

  Not as economical or clean as Toyota claim, poor performance and slow when you want to feed in to a freeway or start off in heavy traffic, takes too long for petrol motor to start when you need the power, expensive servicing and not as reliable as people think a Toyota should be.

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  Best car you can afford! - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Eagle4Jesus - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is truly a wonderful car. The savings with gas are great! It has an LCD touch screen inside the car that is fun! It isnt superbly useful but it looks cool! The mileage is great and the car drives amazing. It has really sharp turns and can easily handle over 80mph!

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  2003 Toyota Prius Hybrid - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Aennchen - September 26 - 10:00 am

  My husband and I bought this car in Feb. 2003 anticipating gas prices to increase with the possibility of a war in Iraq. We drive approx. 2000 miles/month so fuel economy without sacrificing comfort is important. The Prius has not let us down.

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  Love my Prius - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By vegfem - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Great car but actual MPG is slightly lower than manufacturers estimates, as well as lower than cars computer display (anywhere from 2 - 6 mpg lower). MPG is lower in the winter as the car takes longer to warm up. The ride is incredibly smooth.

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  I must like it Im buying my third Prius - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By dwolf1087 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned a 2001 which was in an accident, a 2002 and am now buying a 2004 Prius. The Prius is wonderful. I get 55+ MPG. My driving style suits the Prius. I drive mostly on trips of 20 minutes or more at 35-40 miles per hour with limited traffic stops. Freeway miles are less at 46mpg. I also get less milage in winter, 45-50. On the other hand my record is 64mpg on a tankful (confirmed at pump not just the computer screen which tends to be off by a consistant 2mpg). The Prius will not get the best milage during the first five minutes or so as it warms up, often only 35. Performance is good, comfort levels high.