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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  04 Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By vailitrev - April 2 - 2:00 am

  The car is solid and fun to drive, the dash layout is great, suprisingly good power for entering the interstate or passing.

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  Prius Rocks! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By rscott1220 - April 1 - 1:33 pm

  I own two Prius - version 1 and version 2. I average 55MPG during the non-AC season in Florida and 49MPG during the worst of summer. The best thing about my Prius is I can run all day on the Interstate and get 45MPG at 75-80 MPH! After Hurricane Dennis we drove nearly 3 weeks on a tank of gas while everyone else waited in huge lines. My wifes version 1 car actually gets 57MPG with 69,000 miles on it. I have 2 complaints; the difference between EPA mileage estimates and reality, and this car does not do well on short trips. It needs about 3 miles to max out the battery charge which kills MPG on those 7-11 runs.

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  2005 Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By tim - March 31 - 5:16 pm

  Best car Ive ever driven. Its the best hybrid available, as most other hybrids are not a true hybrid like this. We average 50 MPG in warm weather and 40 MPG in cold weather. Yet it does not lack power. The electric motor and gas motor combine power when you want to accelerate fast. The the gas shuts off as you coast, and the brakes regenerate the battery as you slow down. Its Brilliant!

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  2001 Toyota Prius - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By jmarr - March 31 - 10:00 am

  What first hooked me on this vehicle is when the salesman moved the car forward and backward with no engine sound. The 2nd thing is the cars ability to go up into the mountains on I-70 from Denver to the Eisentower Tunnel while maintaining the speed limit and carrying 4 people. I had one problem, a faulty accelerator sensor. Have had no problems since. Gas mileage is below the quoted amount - Overall mileage averaging @ 41 mph.

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  Just drive it - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By whitelightning60706 - March 31 - 2:00 am

  A test drive convinced us both that this was our next car. Our Prius has 50% more horsepower than the Fiero it replaced (when needed, the 44 HP of the electric motor assist the 90 HP of the gas engine.) At 110 miles we are already getting 43 MPG, even in stop and go traffic. This car is both twice as clean pollution-wise as most new cars, and twice as efficient in use of gas, plus doesnt need special gas. The hybrid technology and batteries are covered essentially for life. If it fails, the risk is Toyotas. It is surprisingly roomy inside. Contrary to some reviews, Prius includes Traction Control. The car was delivered defect-free except for under-inflated tires.

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  I HATE my Prius! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By llf415 - March 30 - 8:53 am

  We bought a Prius in November, and it does not live up to the hype. The keyless entry system stopped working at 2,500 miles and has required 3 trips to the shop to fix. The seats are VERY uncomfortable on long trips, and everything is just waaay too complicated to operate (audio, temperature, etc.), and I hate doing it all on the screeen--whatever happened to simply turning a knob?!. Finally, the real MPG is nothing even close to that listed on the sticker. Over the life of the car so far, I have averaged 36.6 MPG. Granted, I am in stop and go traffic, but isnt it supposed to workbest in those conditions? All-in-all, I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Perfect car for everyone - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By Keanerouillard@gmail.com - March 29 - 9:00 am

  My mpg for everyday and every tank was 41mpg. This is combined over many miles. Short city runs get more. I got 50 mpg going to Indiana. On trip in city I got 61 mpg. I bought new and traded it with 73000 miles on it. I replaced tires at 62000 miles. I also need to replace the headlight bulbs once. I think it was year 2 I put bulbs in. Great car. Comfortable quiet and it is peppy. If you are on the fence on buying one. Get off the fence and get it. I bought 11-2012 just traded in on 4-2016

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  prius - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By thom - March 29 - 8:26 am

  I have had my Prius II for about two weeks now, came out of a 2005 Lexus ES330. Absolutely love the Prius! Solid build, easy and functional. I have just the Prius II (basic model) but it comes with enough "special" features, only leasing it so didnt want to go crazy with options. Drives very good, not a sports car by any means, but for the average person it drives great. Average MPG on first tank was 44.8 mpg according to trip computer, current one is up to 49.5, so the gas numbers on the window sticker are accurate!

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  Everything I expected - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Hy Tech Green Guy - March 27 - 4:00 pm

  I have been very happy with this car. It is comfortable, zippy when needed, and quite economical. I am averaging 48 MPG, but expect more when I learn to drive it better. I highly recommend the navigation system, the bluetooth connection, and the leather interior. I have give my friends rides and they are really surprised at how comfortable it is to ride in.

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  gas mileage? - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By scicineast - March 26 - 2:00 am

  wow- best car ive ever had. surprising gift was its good on snow and ice in brutal iowa winters. bad news is the gas mileage is nowhere near what is advertised (low 40s) but its better on warm days so hope to hit 50 in spring. curious- please email scicineast@aol.com to tell me what mileage you get. i drive like mr. macgoo. not the best rear view visbility and prefer hand knob weather controls to touch screen but love this car in every way. plenty good acceleration and performance for every day driving. tons of storeage.