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:

• 

  Wow! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By janie - July 5 - 10:00 pm

  I just bought my Prius 4 days ago and I love it. Traded an Infiniti FX35 which I also loved, had a hard time giving up, but wanted the increased gas mileage. No disappointment there! Mileage was 43 mpg on the way home from the dealership. Last trip was 49.8 in mixed city and freeway. I read the reviews and now I understand what people were saying about making a game of how much mileage you can squeeze out. The car is also very cute and the gadgets are great - love the bluetooth and navigation. So far everything has been easy to figure out and set up, although the books are basically useless. Better just to experiment on your own. Overall very happy so far.

• 

  Prius beats my expectations - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By hy voltg - July 4 - 10:00 am

  My Prius has ben a delight from the start. Its quality, fit and finish and feels are the usual Toyota rock solid. And the pay off at the pump is terrific. I just came back after a 600 mile trip and found it to be better than expected on the trek. The steering could use some more on center feel, and an armrest would be a plus, but other than that, I love it!

• 

  Episcopal Priest says Yea to Toyata Pri - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By The Revd Mark KJ Ro - July 1 - 4:36 pm

  Steady in snow ice, wind and rain. Traded in SUV and although it was difficult at first not being so high. I have learned how to drive it with a focus on economy. It drives very well and I have three others in my congragation... and three more about to be ordered!

• 

  Gas fillup - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Quinton Qualls - July 1 - 8:56 am

  Since purchasing this car we have had difficulty filling the gas tank. It continually cuts off and just keeps clicking off before we can complete filling the tank. Finally the tank was replaced but we still have the problem. What is the problem. Never had this problem with any other car.

• 

  Toyota back-up camera - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Meg Jacobs - June 29 - 4:20 pm

  The biggest scam I see in the Prius is the back-up camera. The distance is so distorted as to be dangerous. Cars and other objects in the back-up camera always look much smaller than when looked at in the rear-view mirror or looking behind (reality). I just ignore it, but its supposedly a big selling point. Also, MPG on the freeway seems to be about the same as my former car, my beloved 1995 Acura. And parking it is inherently hard because I cant see the front of it as it slopes down steeply. It does have good pick-up on hills, and I bought it for the solar panels that bring in ventilation when parked in the sun to avoid that furnace blast of hot air on hot summer days. I want Honda/Acura!

• 

  Fantastic Auto - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By wanzalee - June 29 - 1:13 pm

  I have owned numerous autos but have never owned a vehicle that was more satisfying than the Prius. It is very responsive and a pure joy to drive.

• 

  The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Codyroo - June 28 - 5:40 pm

  Ive researched the Prius for 4 years before getting the car. It meets all of my expectations. 1) The gas mileage is as advertised. If you hold your freeways speeds down (speed limit) you can easily get 50 mpg or more. Short trips kill mileage, long trips are good. I average over 58 mpg for my daily 70 mile commute. 2) Stereo and bluetooth are nice 2) The brake and acceleration thing was media hype. There are no issues with my car. 3) This is not a 0-60 mph performance car, nor does it handle like a sports car. It has adequate acceleration and handling. 4) Rear visibility isnt very good out of the rear corner windows. Ensure youve adjusted your mirrors adequately.

• 

  Favorite car traded in an Acura for it! - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Robert & Susan - June 27 - 3:03 am

  The mileage we have put on this car is higher than we realized so fast due to the fact thay the gas mileage is so incredibly great that we always drive this car. We have two other cars they are fuel efficient and still cant compete with the fun driving experience of this car. Equipped with navigation system and smart key/keyless entry, this is the car of the future no need for a key and wont break the bank! We even installed our mp3, ipod, etc. We spend so much time in this car compared to the others we own.

• 

  Ill always own a hybrid! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Always hybrid! - June 19 - 7:53 pm

  I had previously owned a hybrid civic. The Prius gets better mileage and is more versatile with cargo (the seats fold down for entire back storage). The Prius is comfortable to drive and ride in, with easy maneuverability, too!

• 

  Better than expected - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Art Ginsburg - June 19 - 12:43 pm

  I feel good driving this car. In the past 20 years Ive owned Mercedes, BMWs, Lexus, and Infinitis. I liked them all, but I get a lot more self satisfaction driving my Prius. I have driven 85 mph just to test it, and it handled just fine. It is very gratifying passing those high priced gas stations. I loaded my bike in the hatchback rear, and drove 6 hours on half a tank. This hybrid does as advertised.