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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  More power than I expected - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By rheumom - December 15 - 10:00 am

  So far, nothing but nice surprises from my Prius. Much more get-up-and-go than I expected. Im averaging 50 mpg. No problems. The contols are easy to use without taking your eyes off the road. The navigation system is wonderful.

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  Making my commute FUN! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By pardreamer - December 15 - 2:33 am

  I have been wanting to get a Prius for the last 5 years but the waiting list and the concern about the battery longevity kept me from getting one. Now there is no more waiting list and reliability records prove that the Prius is THE most reliable family car out there (Consummer Reports) in addition to the 150,000 miles warranty on the battery in California I finally bought it. I wish I have done it sooner. The car is so much fun to drive I look forward to driving it. I consistently get 52-60 MPG on average. Actually my 2 months lifetime average is 54 MPG and it is going up.

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  Super Prius - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Paul Harding - December 14 - 10:15 pm

  Its all about MPG and comfort. Both interior and exterior redesign exceed expectations. MPG is well above the posted ones.

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  Toyota Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By larry platt - December 11 - 8:06 pm

  The car is not made for anyone over 62, there is no leg room. On a long trip the car is impossible to get comfortable in. The car is dangerous in the snow. Even a small amount of snow causes the car to slide out of control when braking. On a snow covered hill if you have to stop the car will slide backwards because there is not enough transaction. Because of where the dashboard is located, at night there is a "green" glow on the windshield that is distracting and on darker roads the green glow will affect road vision. The rear camera for backing up is useless. There are blind spots. When passing a car on an interstate you need to constantly look over your shoulders.

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  THE BEST CAR IVE EVER OWNED - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Art Haendel - December 11 - 8:23 am

  I am 65 years old and have owned many cars in my life. After 10 months and 15,700 miles I can honestly say that the Toyota Prius is the best car that ive ever owned. I originally purchased this car for its fuel efficiency (I am getting an honest 48 m.p.g.) but have found many other things to like about this car. After the rear seat flips down with a touch of 2 buttons you get a cargo area equivalent to a small van. The steering wheel touch controls are very convenient. The keyless entry and ignition system is a joy to use. The engine is quiet and vibration free. The gears shift extremely smoothly. The feel of the road is like a full sized car. Back seat comfort is good. Great car

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  Unique and amazing car! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By C. Hall - December 10 - 7:23 pm

  I was shopping for a replacement for my 95 Corolla DX and was shocked to find that few 08 cars got any better gas mileage than my old car. Finally in desperation I drove the Prius and it was love at first sight. Lots of gadgets and designed elements, but all with a purpose. Drives great! Has noticeably more power then the old Corolla and I prefer driving it to my wifes Avalon. Smoothness and quietness on the road at 70mph are a revelation. It did cost more than other small 4-dr wagons and hatchbacks, but I guess I wanted to burn less gas even more, not just for the money, but for the environment. So nice to drive well probably leave the Avalon parked a lot more. An unexpected bonus!

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  As advertised - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By peter - December 10 - 11:13 am

  Does what it has to do well. Looking through the real window can be a problem. Plenty of room for a car of its size. Gas mileage on short trips is not real good but wonderful when warmed up.

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  Id buy it again - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Patie - December 8 - 7:20 pm

  I affectionately call this my golf cart since at slower speeds, cornering, it feels so easy to drive and is so quiet. Like no other car Ive owned. It has good pick up on hills which are abundant where I live. It accelerates to acceptable speed quickly when getting on the freeway. Its a fun car. Speakers/sound isnt that full or great so if you want great sound, go buy a new sound system. If your phobic about fingerprints, this car is not for you. The dash area and touch screen always look smudgy no matter how many times you try and keep it clean. The handling is excellent though and Ive overlooked the other areas because of this.

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  My first hybrid - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By IndyPrius - December 5 - 12:40 pm

  I previously owned a 2007 Honda Fit and traded it in for a 2010 Prius III. The fuel economy is amazing. I have driven it for a week and put 300 miles on it so far; I have 1/2 a tank left! I have been averaging 49 mpg, and I am learning to change my old gas guzzling driving habits. The hybrid handling was strange/different from what I am used to, but I am slowly adjusting. The interior is roomy. This car feels more solid on the road than my previous Fit. I feel very safe in the Prius. As I learn more about hypermiling, I hope to be in the 60 mpg range in a few months. I have no regrets trading in my Fit for the Prius. I dont dread driving anymore b/c its so fun to drive this car!

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  Toyota Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Dolores Reig - December 2 - 6:16 am

  I am delighted with my experiences driving the Prius. It drives like a much larger car. I feel as if I am driving a computer assisted vehicle which intuits my needs. I had a very close call when a car suddenly pulled into my lane in front of me without warning. I did not think I would stop before impact. With the Prius, I felt as if the tires were velcroed to the ground; it stopped immediately without any fishtailing or any sidewise movement. I do not believe my Nissan would have stopped so quickly or made me feel so secure. I have been driving Nissans most of my adult life (my other car is still a Nissan) but after the Prius, I am now a convicted Toyota advocate.