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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  Im Impressed! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By DMW - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the car yesterday and just ordered one! I was skeptical go in and walked away in AWE! Very good acceleration, I got on the highway and was doing 70 before I knew it, impressive since I drive a 03 Accord. The acceleration is so smooth that you dont realize how fast you are going. Unofficially I did 0-60 in 10 seconds. Interion space is excellent, better leg room than the Camry or Accord and just slightly narrower. You could easily put 3 kids in the back and very comfortable with 2 6 ft adults and a 10 year old. If your considering a Camry or Accord you definately need to look at this for about the same price.

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  Practically, the best value! - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By Frederick Jamison - September 20 - 6:43 pm

  The gas mileage is as advertised: it is extraordinary.

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  Dealership-Car. 100% Delight! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Brad_in_SoCal - September 20 - 2:00 am

  So heres the deal. From day 1 I was told 6 months wait list. Not true. LESS THAN 2 WEEKS from deposit to driving off the lot. The car is amazing, everyone at work is AMAZED... Even my 85 year old grandfather was acting like a 10 year old kid with a thousand questions. AND, I can get from Los Angeles to Seattle on less than 2 tanks of gas that will cost me less than $40 TOTAL!!! If you have questions but dealerships scare you, email me. I will be happy to help in any way I can. (SERIOUSLY!) :) This is an absolutely BRILLIANT automobile I think everyone should test drive when considering a new car.

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  Found flaws after I bought it - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Allan Birmantas - September 16 - 4:20 am

  Good gas mileage, but the rest is nothing special. Lots of electronic doo dads, but lacks substance. I guess the MPG is a pretty important issue these days. Headlights very weak on high beam. Ride good and stable, but seats are pretty uncomfortable and driver seat needs more leg room. Im 6 ft tall.

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  Cool car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By mdahmus - September 15 - 10:00 am

  A lot of "wow" factor with this car for friends and family; extremely solid; Camry-like except newer-looking and cooler.

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  Never Ceases to Amaze Me - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Zarvin G - September 14 - 2:00 am

  I got the loaded model (package 9). This car is an engineering marvel and an incredibly good value! Plenty of power, great handling, very roomy, numerous creature comforts, excellent craftsmanship,and many luxury & safety features not seen in cars under 40K. Being green (~45 MPG, lowest emissions of ANY car on the road) has never been this easy or fun! Leads to marital disputes over who gets to drive. Detroit: WAKE UP! OPEC: WATCH OUT!

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  Best by far, where is the US makers. - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By vpc - September 14 - 2:00 am

  Great car, runs well, 50mpg on hw at 70+ mph and only 10% of all other 2004 tail pipe polution!. Great fit and finish. Great sleek design. 18k with tax rebate. Where is Detroit, Toyotas going to eat your lunch. And coming from the Detroit area Im not happy.

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  Johnnys Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Johnny Wirth - September 9 - 3:06 pm

  With fuel at $2.00 plus this is the only car to have. We get 52.3 mpg and even higher when we take longer trips. This car is way ahead of its time and were happy to be part of the Prius generation. The room in the back is fantastic as the back seats fold flat making for a lot of storage. The AC is great and all electric as is the power steering. Using AC motors we know the car will be in the junk yard way before those electric motors will give out. We cant wait until the Camry is out in hybrid especially if its the same set up as the Prius.

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  Prius: best car Ive ever owned - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By L.J. - September 8 - 6:50 am

  Greatest technology you will find in a car. I love the smart key, Bluetooth, sound system and hybrid technology. I am looking into buying another.

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  I think I like it! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By pruischick - September 4 - 9:00 am

  I bought my Prius a couple of weeks ago. Actually my husband convinced me to buy one. I wasnt sure about it at first, but I think I like it. We are getting about 54 miles to the gallon which is fantastic. The ride is smoother and much quieter than I anticipated but it doesnt handle curves in the road as well as I thought it would. The new body style is cute and it has fun accessories. Yah, I like it. I wish they offered a Prius coupe though. A two door would be really awesome.