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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  I love my Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By TeresaP - November 9 - 8:03 am

  I drove a Tahoe before purchasing my prius. At the recommendations of my father I looked at the prius & ended up ordering one. My Tahoe sold to the first person that looked at it which put me in a bind for transportation when I still had 2 months to go before it was to come in - it ended up coming in sooner and it has amazed me how much I like my prius - even more now that gas locally has risen to $2.69/gallon. I admit I miss my Tahoe but I dont miss close to $80/week in gas to get to work. The prius is a definate learning experience in changing the way you drive. The more miles I drive the better gas mileage I seem to get. I love my prius + savings on gas and state/fed taxes!!!

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  My Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mary Lou - November 8 - 1:43 am

  After a nine month wait, I picked up my 2004 Prius in August of 2004. It was all that I expected and more. The gas mileage is the greatest. Its better in warmer weather than cold. There are little features that Im constantly finding out about, such as all the hidden compartments. I love the environmental features. I found out the dashboard is made of bio plastic (from plant products) rather than petro plasic (made from oil products). I love all those environmental features such as the fact that the cars aluminum body, batteries etc. are recycleable. The batteries are not hazardous waste, they are NiMH batteries. It also has PZEV emmisions.

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  Love the Prius! - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By KRymar - November 3 - 5:50 pm

  I have owned this car since May 2002 and I absolutely love it. Im so happy I got it before the big "prius craze" began. I paid $20K for it -- just about have to double that to get one these days. Im in that mode where Im ready for a new car, but am not willing to give up the perks of owning this car. My only regret is that I didnt get the GPS system - boy how I wish I had! Ill probably keep this car longer than any other -- my gas mileage varies between 37 and 47 mpg depending on the time of year.

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  buy it now - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By sternmeister - November 3 - 10:00 am

  interior seat is worst problem. set too high and not enuff support for back

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  sad - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Fayjie - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Toyota took something that actually works. and made it ugly,in my oppinion. I am certain they did not intend to but the appearence remains that in an attempt to make something look air dynamic they put a point on the hood, nose, of the vehicle that just as well might be a mustashe on the Mona Lisa.It really was not needed.

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  So far so good - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Complex - November 2 - 6:36 am

  Replaced 2006 Honda Ridgeline (great truck while it lasted), this is a big change to get used to. I considered the Camry (didn’t want to wait for the 2010s), and the Ford Fusion (did not have fold down seats). The Prius is a technology wonder. My complaints are minor because I may be spoiled or want perfection but other features are superb. So far, Im loving it. The mileage is the best part. The first time I filled up, I thought the gauge was broken as it took so little fuel.

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  Its Beautiful When You Get to Know It - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By oolalaa - November 1 - 8:43 pm

  Maybe the big draw is the gas mileage, but once you get to know this car, it becomes a thing of beauty. Once you begin to understand that the lines were developed for efficiency, rather than trend, the smoothness of the hybrid drivetrain, the excellent handling (mine is the touring model) and the good feeling that you are making each drop of gas go as far as it can, you grow to see the beauty come through. Now, when I look at it, I see an utterly gorgeous machine. One that is more advanced than any BMW, Porsche or Mercedes. Its also very very useful. It can carry four passengers in comfort, carry 10 bags of cement without a problem and fit in 8 lumber.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Wally Minich - November 1 - 12:30 am

  My third Prius and 2010 is by far best. Now I believe car was 90% re- engineered after driving first 100 feet. 2010 Prius drives and handles like a real car, have to drive to believe the experience...

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  Great Car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By lomon - October 31 - 9:23 pm

  This car is the most interesting car I have ever own. Its like driving a brand new car in each trip. The silent EV mode & fuel economy is terrific

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  "Gizmo" - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By George - October 28 - 6:33 am

  I bought this car only and only for the car-pool lane. I shaved off 35-50 minutes in morning drive time. Im getting 55 miles per gallon. 48 with air conditioning running. Car is exceptional, has a lot of the features big ticket luxury cars have. The ride is flawless, sound system is great. I enjoy the blue-tooth and it is comfortable. If youre looking for an economic easy to ride car with decent pick-up and all the bells and whistles then go and test drive it. I was surprised that it has some pick-up. Its not a Porsche or a muscle car, keep that in mind when test driving it. Mine is loaded and I really appreciate the car for the time I save driving and the fuel efficiency