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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  Ultimate Space Ship - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By dchev - August 9 - 3:20 pm

  The car drives like a space ship. I get between 42-50 MPG average gas millage. It is not what some other owners have posted; however, this is just insane gas millage. I love everything about my car. The ride with 17 inch tires is a little bit on the firm side; however, it is still very very comfortable. As other people say, the car makes you learn how to drive all over again... Lots of people have complained about Toyota service (recalls), but please go to another dealer. My dealer has been very responsive and did ECU upgrade for an hour. Still, I could not complain about anything in the car prior upgrade. World is a better place with 2010 Toyota Prius! Enjoy it!

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  Great smart stylish choice - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By mike edwards - August 7 - 4:55 am

  options..look for the solar panel and rearview camera...maybe satellite radio as well

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  Very Impressive - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By binfire - August 6 - 10:50 pm

  I have owned my 07 Prius for ten days. It is very easy to maneuver on road and parking lot. Turning corners is just a piece of cake. Ride is comfortable and quiet. Love the backup camera and it really works. Love to push a button to start the engine. I dont need to touch my key in order to get into the car, drive, park, and close the doors. The most interesting thing is watching the trip computer telling you engine running conditions and fuel economy. For the first tank of gas, I got 50 MPG (filled 9.0 gal at 450 miles) with 80% city miles. Very impressive! Very happy with my purchase.

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  Love It - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Joyce Muxfeld - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Am not getting the 60 mpg city driving that I expected, more like 43-48. On the highway, however, I average 50-53, even at 65mph. Love the car. Plan to buy a 2nd one for our family.

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  Not for TALL PEOPLE - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By swampfox - August 5 - 9:23 am

  The Prius is an excellent car, however, before you buy it you should test-sit in it. The slanted roof makes it almost impossible for anyone over 510" to comfortable see out of the windshield. Depending on your body build, you must test-sit in this vehicle to make sure you can confortably and safely drive this car. If you can, GREAT!!! Because it is a GREAT CAR, but ONLY if you fit in it.

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  Toyota Got This One Right - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By BobB - July 30 - 5:46 am

  All parts and assembly in Japan. Great ride and solid feel. Sensitive to cross winds on the highway but otherwise very stable.

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  Purview of the Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By bowhunter - July 28 - 6:03 am

  I was intrigued by the technology of the Prius and other Hybrid vehicles. After owning other Toyota vehicles and the dependability I have had, it was a given that I wanted the Toyota brand of a Hybrid. I am not sorry that I purchased this vehicle. The performance, agility, and dependability of this vehicle assures me that I made the right decision in sticking with Toyota. Even with mileage not at EPA predicitons, I cannot complain at what I average. Comfort is great and the ride feels like what the Camry delivers.

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  So Kool! - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Pebbles2006 - July 27 - 4:43 am

  My driving and ownership have been nothing like my driving and ownership of may cars in the past. When Im in my Prius, I feel like Im somewhere in the Future. I know I made the best choice. When passengers ride in it, they cant believe the smooth, comfortable ride and the touch- pad system for temperature and audio control, etc.

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  A Good Car - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By bh_okedoke - July 25 - 4:40 am

  Bought a Prius, pkg 5, about a month ago. Have 1500 miles, averaging about 43 MPG mixed commuter driving of approx 45 miles a day, half back roads, half highway. Live in New England, so I’m hoping the colder temps is the reason for the lower MPG. Kind of bounces about in heavy wind. Pickup will get you up to highway speed, but it’s no barn burner. Engine very loud under very hard acceleration. Seats are so so on comfort, fronts not bad, but backs need longer bottom cushion. Many blind spots, but can overcome with proper mirror placement. Rear view camera was a great idea.

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  Great Value, though quite annoying - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Joe - July 24 - 5:44 pm

  This is a great car, it gives you fantastic mileage and it seems very reliable. Toyotas flagship hybrid car does what you expect it to do. Now, there are a few EXTREMELLY annoying features on this car that will make you think about it twice before buying it. Firstly, the beeping: You are going to have loud beeping for almost anything you do, being the most irritating the one when you hit reverse. Its piercing, loud and cannot be heard outside of the vehicle, which kind of seems kind of idiotic. Why would you want an annoying loud beep sound INSIDE of your vehicle when you are in reverse mode? To warn you that you are in reverse mode? but you are the one hitting reverse, so you know, and as you are going back, you still know you are going back, so why a beep? I still have no answer for that, but it makes parking very unpleasant and it CAN NOT BE SWITCHED OFF. I repeat: IT CANNOT BE SWITCHED ON, E.V.E.R.. Also, every time you open the drivers door, you also get a LOUD beep, and it CANNOT BE SWITCHED OFF. Guess what? You already know you are opening the front door, because you are the one doing it! So, why that loud beep? yep. Surprisingly, you can exit the car, close the doors with your remote still leaving the car on, and it will remind completely silent, even though that WILL FOR SURE HAPPEN to you at some point if you never owned a keyless car. I can guarantee you that. There is a nice screen that allows you to read text msgs from your phone and even play video and watch pictures. However, it will not do that unless you car is stopped (and I believe the engine is off). So even if the co-pilot decided to watch pictures in the larger screen from their phone or just use the screen during a long trip, they cant do it. This feature cannot be overridden either. The car basically treats you like you are 4yo and its loud. I have been driving for 20 years, If I buy a car, I want a car, not a baby sitter with a loud piercing horn. Period. Another thing is the location of the mail panel. If you are tall or average height, your right knee will hit it. I get it, this is not a big car, still there are other ways to configure the inside so things dont get in the way. While that may not be a big deal as you drive test it on the dealer, it will became painful in a daily basis. I can also guarantee that. In conclusion, this is a great car, with a terrible computer built in computer. If we could just switch it off all together and just drive the damn thing, it would be a very valuable vehicle. But thats not the case.