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:

• 

  Head-Turner - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Jillian - July 24 - 6:13 am

  I only had to wait a week for this vehicle, but it was the longest week of my life! I love cruising along on the highway or at low speeds through town between stop signs with my monitor showing 99 mpg! After 500 miles, the car is averaging 50.9 mpg, not bad considering all the hilly areas I have to traverse. This car has changed how I drive, though. If you have a lead foot, dont expect to get great mileage. You may have to *gasp* start letting people pass you! I love using a POWER button to start the car, and creeping up on unwitting cyclists is hilarious! I love how the car looks, it isnt like anything else out there. I cant say enough good things about my new Prius! Get one!

• 

  Made me enjoy driving again - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Will Richardson - July 23 - 12:40 pm

  The most impressive car I have owned in over 45 years of buying/driving cars. It is fun to drive, handles well, and the economy is fantastic. With all the bells and whistles, it is still very reasonably priced and lives up to all its hype.

• 

  Love My Prius - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By hybridgrl - July 23 - 9:40 am

  My Prius is the best car I have had to date. Not only extremely fuel efficient but very comfortable and fun to drive with Toyota reliability.

• 

  Unexpected Great Buy - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Shay - July 22 - 10:31 am

  This car is fun to drive. There is a visibility issue. It a very smooth ride and handles well. This isnt a sports car so the acceleration isnt there but it has a power mode. Also, there no privacy in the trunk. You can see the entire trunk from the outside. I bought a large bin for this. Otherwise, the more I drive it, the more in love I am. I keep discovering cool techie things. Plus its a cool looking car. Love the lights. I didnt buy it because it was a hybrid. I bought it because it was cool. The hybrid was just extra.

• 

  Love my Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Meso Arch - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Could not love this car more. While it is true that the milage is not as good as predicted, the milage is still outstanding. Room in the back seat is prodigous, room in the trunk is also very good.

• 

  Eco car rocks - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Rain Pryor - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I believe in keeping our air clean and having a great time when I drive - The Prius gives me both - its fast on the highways and has great spped and handles well in traffic - I love the fact the Los Angeles times magazine said that the emmissions from the prius are better than the Air we breath in LA most days - Pretty incredible. I hope that soon everyone will have a hybrid - Lets stop our dependence on oil - Go eco!

• 

  Silver Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By MLGiunta - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving my new Prius for almost 3 weeks now. The mileage is lower than sticker, but more than double my old car. This is the break in period, so I expect more after 600 miles. I love the gadgets and the soft interior. It is definitely a head turner. The climate control is the best in any car Ive ever owned. The styling is unique. I waited 9 months for this car, but it certainly was worth the wait.

• 

  This is the best! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By nikita1 - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I have to drive an average of 500 miles per week and have always been concerned about fuel consumption and pollution. I owned a Tercel which gave me 40mpg, but when I found out about the Prius, I was one of the first to get it. Since I drive part in the city and part in the Hwy. the car gives me an average of 50+ mpg and it is comforting to know that I am not burning gas when I have to make a stop at a light, since the gas shuts up and the system works only with the batteries. The car has all the computer and Gps features you will find in an expensive Camry. At night, the inside panel lights are in the center,and outside visibility is clear.

• 

  I Love This Car!! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Andys Mom - July 21 - 8:33 pm

  I purchased my new Prius 2 months ago and have been thrilled with it. It gets 51 mpg on the highway and 43-45 mpg in the city. The car accelerates smoothly and quickly with no difficulty on the freeway. The smart key is great, I never have to search for the key in my purse. I just leave it in the bottom of my purse, put my hand on the door handle and the door unlocks. Likewise, the car starts by pressing a start button (once again, the key stays in my purse which is in the car) - so convenient. Theres a surprising amount of room - no complaints from my kids in the back seat. I havent had any mechanical problems. The car works runs like a dream.

• 

  You Wont Believe My Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Gerard Chapin - July 20 - 2:20 am

  Do you live in New Jersey? Well I do. Do you know its the most densely populated state? Well, I do. There are cars everywhere because we lack the mass transportation network needed and we want the freedom of the automobile offers us. Therefore there are frequent traffic jams. When Im driving my 2004 Toyota Prius I get better mileage when the speeds are slower. So at least if Im not saving time Im at least saving money. The Prius has suprising pickup for highway merging since both the elctical system and the combustion system kick in. Air conditioning runs on the battery which in turn is charged by driving and braking. Mileage has been consistently at 50 mpg in the warm weather. Prius