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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  2011 Toyota Prius Two - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By kadena - August 7 - 10:22 pm

  I purchased my Prius new. I have 31,000 miles on the car. I have changed the oil and oil filter three times. No repairs at all. It gets 50 mpg, sometimes a little more. The seats are comfortable. It is 100% made in Japan. I think this car is of the highest quality. It certainly is made for Chicago city driving and the outrageous gas prices here. I would buy another one just like it. No regrets whatsoever in the purchase of this car.

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  Dont buy this car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By biker bob - August 7 - 9:20 pm

  The Prius has had 2 recalls so far, the CD player was replaced once already and the new one doesnt play most CDs, I have a bad leak behind the dash and my floors got soaked and now with the cold weather my floor is frozen. Im waiting for my appointment to bring the car in. Ive had the car 8 months and its been in the shop 3 times already and its going again. My fuel mileage isnt the same since the computer recall, and no one can tell me why. The best city mileage Im getting is bet. 28 and 35 MPGs. I cant wait to sell this thing.

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  2 months of city driving - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By quentoncassidy - August 7 - 6:44 pm

  Just had it about two months. Very good handling vehicle around town and the mpg are fantastic! Im averaging over 50 mpg in stop and go driving. Took a relatively long trip of 350 miles and averaged 56 mpg. Seats are very comfortable and the NAV system and technology features are great. Sound system works very well; I have the Deluxe Solar Package and the upgraded stereo is excellent. There is a solar array on top of the vehicle that runs a ventilation system to cool the car on sunny days and this is another wonderful feature. Ive had sun roofs on all my cars since 1978 so I had to have this on the Prius.

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  Like the car - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By prius driver - July 30 - 5:03 am

  Its been a fun car to drive. You can get hooked on trying to beat your best mpg. Traded Lexus GS 300 and Im not sorry. Averaging 53 mpg in mixed driving. Quiet ride, almost calming, a liberating feeling.

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  109,300 miles, 11 years - reliable, but not as long lasting as other Toyota cars - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By techguy5 - July 29 - 8:12 pm

  Have had this car since 2004 CPO buy -- early adopter on hybrid technology. Excellent reliability, with caveats. MPG ranged from 45 to 50 MPG in the first 4-5 years -- huge money saver for someone commuting in heavy Los Angeles traffic. Main hybrid battery replaced under warranty around 80K just under 10 year warranty; again replaced battery around 90K after replacement battery saw failed battery cell (replaced by Toyota out of warranty, no charge, for failure analysis @ factory). Currently getting 39 to 45 MPG -- but have had an unexplained failure to start. No other major repairs. Great car, but dont think will get it to the 250K+ you can get from other non-hybrid Toyotas.

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  STUPID CAR - very disappointed!!!!! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By adam07 - July 26 - 5:33 am

  I bought this car in march 08, and two months later, there are countless dents from the smallest branches and acorns, it has dinky wheels, and the ugliest design, plus the brakes got really squeaky by June of 08 and Toyota told me there is nothing they could do. Toyota is the worst car company ever, I made a HUGE mistake, I should have bought a Jeep Patriot instead, it has more style, still has good gas mileage, and is a hell of a lot more durable than this junk!

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  The surprise car of the decade! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By mr_whippet_2001 - July 24 - 12:50 pm

  I would say one of the most surprising aspects of this car is the power... especially if you have to punch it from a stop. Here in southern Cal you will find an unfriendly car a centimeter away from your bumper if you arent breaking the speed of sound while in the fast lane. Im happy to report this car has no problem keeping up with others even going up a steep grade on our hwy 101!

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  Love My Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Richard K - July 23 - 7:23 pm

  This car is everything I expected and more. I get 50 miles to the gallon on the highway and about 46 or 47 in city driving and I love everything about it.

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  Prius driving fun - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Ronald Solberg - July 23 - 5:16 am

  I have found the Prius provides one of the most enjoyable driving experiences I have ever had with any car. Over the years I have driven 2-3 dozen different automobiles. What has made the experience so enjoyable is that the car has changed my driving style, all for the better. The on-going fuel consumption monitoring/reporting system has encouraged me to set new consumption goals each trip I make with the car, thus forcing me to do the things that make my drives safer and more economic.

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  its okay but ... - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By sparkyshan - July 18 - 10:00 am

  We originally purchased this for my wife. We have since bought her a new car and I inherited it. I am 62" and I have found that the seat does not go back far enough for me. I am too close to the steering wheel for comfort. For short rides, its okay, but anything over an hour and I am uncomfortable. Does get good mileage, which helps. To be honest, if I werent upside down on the amount owed vs value, I would sell it and get a Subaru Outback.