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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  2004 Prius an excellent performer - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Joseph R. Pulley - July 19 - 6:10 pm

  Handles well, 50+ mpg, good for hauling large items. Body integrity excellent. Auto headlight dimmers, automatic door locking and auto brake release

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  Fantastic Car in todays economy - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Scott - July 19 - 7:00 am

  Ive had this car since 2/08, and its quickly become the car most driven in our family. True MPG of 47-48 mph. Note -- Mileage poor for first 5 minutes of driving, while engine charges battery, and fluids are heated. After that, mileage superlative. For 30 minute work commutes, it is unbeatable. I have gotten over 50 mpg for a tankful before, and never below 46 mpg. Pickup is not great, but is adequate. Comfort level is outstanding; radio sound quality superb; seating very comfortable; easily fits 4 adults. This is an outstanding vehicle.

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  Coasting along - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Steph - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Prius about one month ago and I love the car. I purchased the car for environmental reasons and its living up to my expectations. Mileage is averaging 45-50. Mileage will increase as car breaks in and as temps warm (right now winter in Chicago). Smooth ride. Quiet car. Comfortable seats. Helpful MPG data on a current basis. Nice interior layout with climate and audio controls easily accessed on steering wheel.

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  Re-learning driving a car - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Jim - July 16 - 11:16 pm

  I dont have much available money so I went for the #1 car that would keep me away from the service department and the gas station. So far after only one month so good, but its still early. Everything I could have asked for. Everyone asks me how I charge it and what kind of fuel I have to use and I almost laugh when I tell them I never have to charge it and I can use any gas I want.

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  Loved it enough to buy another Prius! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By britbug - July 15 - 4:52 pm

  I purchased a used 2005 Prius 2 years ago ($8500) with 81K miles. It now has 120K miles & I just traded it in (got $4,250 for the trade) for a 2010 Prius ($14,900). The hybrid battery was replaced by the last owner under warranty at 79K. The A/C compressor broke last year, the evaporator broke this year. I am just writing it off as a fluke though, & bought another Prius because I loved it so much & expect Toyota to only get better with this design. I could get 64mpg with fuel efficient tires & if I was trying, but averaged 50mpg with cheap tires and when I wasnt trying. I loved the luxury features in an affordable car & loved the hatchback style that I could fit anything in.

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  excellent car - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By michealb - July 13 - 10:18 am

  Bought my car in 2011 with 30k miles on it. It now has 230K and the only thing I have replaced is 2 headlight bulbs. Had regular service every 5000 miles. Driven everyday for business and personal use on the interstate, up and down mountains and regularly maintained good mpg. Started off around 47mpg and still around 44mpg even after 200K miles added to the odo. I am 6ft. Interior cabin was a little small for me but other capacities made up for lack of comfort. My wife was recently in an accident and the prius held its own. Protected her in a 65mph crash. Unfortunately it was beyond repair. Will purchase another and hope it will serve as good as this one.

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  Wifes opinion - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By martha scudder - July 12 - 5:33 pm

  As a front seat passenger, I would like less feel of every crack in the road. Leg room, at full stretch, is excellent. Husband loves to drive the Prius. At age 85, he has driven many cars. We are very impressed with speed and pick-up. We often drive to 6500 foot elevation , no problem.

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  Not comfortable.... - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By indian77 - July 11 - 10:16 pm

  The car is great, the comfort level is not so good. What this car lacks is what the latest certain Prius models have improved upon. There is no power driver seat, so finding that sweet spot for driving is a real challenge. For example, you will be finding yourself reaching out for that steering wheel when you are in a comfortable position. That will put strain on your arms while driving. There is no lower back support, so for long drives that can be for hours, this is a lower back killer. Make sure you do your daily stretches to overcome the physical drawbacks of sitting in this car.

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  Mary Dillons observations.. - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By dillsma@aol.com - July 10 - 4:46 am

  I have owned my Prius for a year. My mileage is satisfactory(41 to 49mpg) and would probably be better if I drove slower however, nothing was mentioned about that when I purchased and was told the milage could be as igh as 60mpg. I dont like the dashboard too much. Id prefer the dashboard that I had in my Camry. The green electronic lighting reflects in the winshield at night which makes night driving more difficult. The info available is nice but... not necessary and just a come-on to those who are looking for "pizazz". Most Prius drivers, especially myself, are interested in the practical aspect of it, both ecologically and economically. The "icing on the cake" is unnecessary.

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  Cool Commuter... - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By ATL27 - July 7 - 11:26 pm

  I purchased the Prius V a little over a month ago and to date I have recorded about 1,300 miles. I bought this vehicle as a commuter and in that role I’ve been very pleased with it. The mileage has been outstanding; I drive in “Power Mode” only and I just filled up tonight achieving 51.3 mpg as measured by miles and gallons used in mostly city driving (The onboard computer was a bit optimistic registering 53.5). The worst mileage I’ve received was a 250 mile interstate only trip at 75 mph where I got 46.5 mpg. Overall I think it’s fun to drive and it has decent/adequate power. My only complaint is that it does have a LOT of road/tire nose on rough pavement! Ive had no problems to date.