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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  Happy car purchase - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Arb - March 8 - 12:30 pm

  I trade cars every 2 years and this was the first car I bought that I felt good about. The Prius is a techno machine that will have a gadget head reeling with all the simple yet sophisticated features. It reminds me of when I purchased my first iPod. It makes you wonder why other devices in the genre cant deliver upon your expectations. I enjoy not using a key in the traditonal sense via the SmartKey feature. The dynamic way the car displays its usage of energy has an effect on your driving style. You become smoother on the accelerator, which leads to greater fuel economy. Sure, I havent hit 60 mpg avg. on a tank of gas, but 48 mpg is great. Thats a 100% improvement over my old vehicle.

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  04,05,06 Pruis - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Road Scholar - March 6 - 11:33 pm

  Toyota Pruis is best car in world. I have owned 3,presently have an 05 @06. Would not consider any other car. The car is fast,quiet,non polluting,great mileage,excellent trunk space, rear camera, drive by wire. It is a TOYOTA!

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  Went from Mercedes Benz to Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Big Daddy - March 6 - 9:23 am

  My friends laughed at me when I said I was parking my Mercedes Benz S600 and buying a Toyota Prius. Now Im laughing at them as fuel prices soar and commuting here in Northern California has become a major part of my day and expenses. I commute almost 200 miles per day and was spending almost $150 per week filling up my 12 cylinder car. The beauty of the Prius is that its very comfortable (consider the fact that Im 60 tall and weigh 250 lbs). The car handles very well and has plenty of power to climb steep hills. I also save enough money on gas to pay the car note and insurance. Essentially this car pays for itself. Big Daddy says "Dont knock it til you try it".

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  Earth friendly - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By MMA - March 3 - 7:10 pm

  I have owned Honda, Nissan,Toyota and American made cars. The Prius far surpasses all these. I had two wait 6 months for the car. It was worth the wait. Gas mileage and room are excellent.

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  Short but sweet. - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Darrell Leacock - March 2 - 2:13 pm

  2000 miles, not long but plenty of time to conclude that the Prius lives up to its billing. Yes you can accomplish the EPA numbers, but you will not likely drive in that prescribed manner. However, with very little change in driving habits from our recent 97 Camry XLE, we get a solid 45 MPG overall. Very much a pleasure to drive.

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  KJays car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By KJays Car - March 2 - 1:10 pm

  Excellent ride, gas mileage (45-50 mpg on highway) and super car to drive. Sporty look, everyone wants my car.

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  Pros and Cons of a Toyota Prius V - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Just Me - March 2 - 11:13 am

  Pros of the Toyota Prius V: I purchased the 2012 Prius V (5) The space is terrific for families or active persons. The hatch back has fantastic room, I put the back seats down and pack boogie boards, surfboards, a bike or even a piece of furniture I purchased from the store. Love the back seat leg room. My family is tall and have long legs, the room is comfortable for them and the shoulder room is also. Love the technology, I have had no problems with the car in the 4.5 yrs I owned it. This car is great on gas !! I previously owned a van because i needed the space but the gas was like another car payment, With my van i spent about $425.00 per month on gas verses with the Prius V I only spend $70.00 !!! That is a huge savings and I can still fit the things I need in the Prius V. DOWNSIDE OR CONS: THE PRIUS V IS VERY NOISY ON THE HIGHWAY. WE HAVE TO SPEAK LOUDLY TO HEAR EACH OTHER. IT IS NOT A QUIET RIDE. VERY UNFORTUNATE.

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  Changed my view - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By hay2you - February 27 - 1:43 pm

  Was not expecting to like this car. My husband loves getting great gas mileage and has always been interested in this car. He just hated the older styles inside, thought it was cheap and ugly. The the 2010 came out and he liked it. It drives great, quiet, you can see out of it well. The best turning radius I have ever had. We drive a mixed highway city and have had no less than 52mpg. I had to trade in my 300 Chrysler but I dont miss it. Now I like getting the best gas mileage. We have a focus and suzuki sx4. Hate to say it but this car is a much better car.

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  Prius 2010 exceeds our expectations! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Bullitt - February 26 - 3:00 pm

  My fiancee and I bought the Prius 2010 first week of January and we really love it in red. We test-drove the Venza but only the Prius exceeded our expectations with the comfort, MPG and sporty look (especially from the front). The MPG is excellent (45 mpg mixed in the winter on hilly roads around Pittsburgh). The rear visibility is not a problem at all! The people who have a problem with it should pass their driving test again because its really easy to park. The base model has everything you need (keyless entry, bluetooth, alloy wheels, excellent radio). There is enough power when you need it; the car has just been fixed with the recall (never noticed any issues). Try it and youll love it!

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  Relax and enjoy - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By jimbryan - February 25 - 2:00 pm

  OK, I have 2 big BMW gas hogs, an X5 and a 545iA. Both are superb cars, but both egg you on to drive fast and aggressively. And both are overkill for trips to the grocery store, and a 7 mile commute to work. With the Prius, you feel relaxed driving, it eggs you to relax and take it easy. When the engine shuts off at a stoplight, I lose the angst of waiting at the light. This is a fantastic car for around town and short trips, it really works beautifully. The cargo space is also amazing, it holds almost as much as the X5 (not that the X5 is a big cargo vehicle), and on top of that are the very useful storage areas all over.