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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  Incredible Car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Bill Gailey - June 1 - 2:00 am

  After test driving the Prius, I realized that this was the car that I wanted. Its fun and inexpensive to drive. We drove it to Richmond from Charlotte and got 50+ miles/gallon and it handled beautifully. I have only owned it for three (3) weeks, but have found nothing about it that I dont like. Even my wife, who is has back problems, finds it comfortable. I hope Toyota or Lexus will put this engine into one of their SUVs soon. Thank you.

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  Ive become the house errand boy - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Dan - May 29 - 6:26 pm

  The Pruis has turned fuel economy into a sport for me. Performance is more than satisfactory. And the display of current fuel efficiency sensitizes one to the effects of subtle changes in driving habits (e.g., easing off the accelerator well before coming to a stop sign). Over the course of three tanks of gas, Ive gotten about 46 mpg. With practice, I hope to reach the 50 mpg mark. This thing is so much fun to drive that Ive become the errand boy at our house.

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  good overall - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Jim - May 29 - 2:00 am

  the winter drop is beyond expected 5-7 mpg,comfort for 62" but agree lumbar support needed, nav is a waste in this day of cell phone nav,dont buy, got 63k on oe tires,some alignment issues, would like to see lineup expanded, apparently in works,have never achieved over 49.5 on highway 70 mph, no some getting 55 mpg at 55 mph

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  Smiles per miles - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By ALH - May 28 - 8:03 pm

  I love cars. I commute about 70 minutes to work, 80/20 highway/traffic. Regardless of what car I drove, my commute was getting to be a dull grind compounded by a growing guilt about the gas and pollution involved. Since getting my 2004 Prius 2 Years ago, all that changed. Now I enjoy my commute. Every trip is like a game. Every trip is an inspiration to my sense of innovation and thoughtful execution (I am a professional Mechanical Engineer and design industrial machinery). Sure my mileage does not match EPA, no cars do. The point is that, for me, this car is perfect: reliable, comfortable, roomy, safe, cost effective, fun, progressive, inspiring and, oh yes and easier on the environment.

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  no regrets - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By sublimesipping - May 28 - 2:08 am

  coming up on the 5 year anniversary of this big purchase for us- we thought long and hard about the investment on so many levels. happy to say 5 years later we have no regrets and are very happy with this car. Reliability has been outstanding. Only routine maintenance with the exception of a leaking water pump caught by the dealer doing routine oil change and repaired under warrranty at no cost to us.

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  My 2001 California Prius - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By THendren - May 27 - 6:03 am

  At 110K miles, I am impressed with my classic Prius even before buying it. It is more fun to drive since I replaced the tires (52k miles, 2 sets) with a stiffer brand (67k miles one set). Brakes (still at 60%) should last 200,000 miles. Early on needed computer replaced, no problems now. Have taken two 4,000 plus mile trips with mpg at 44 each. I can sit in the back seat with head clearance. Fully expect the car and battery to last 300k. We like this model better than the 2004 version but am waiting for the 94mpg version due next year.

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  Super Economical vehicle - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By morphius12812003 - May 27 - 2:16 am

  My wife and I have recently driven home with our new 2010 Prius IV package. We paid for the extra paint and door sills. The illuminated door sills are excellent additions and we both love the aesthetics. As for overall performance, the vehicle remains efficient and sleek with its re-design. Added power and versatility gives more pep in the open road (although it will not win many street races). We have also looked at adding after-market products to accent the new purchase, paying much lower than dealer pricing. Dont let the dealer charge MSRP or more, I got mine for $1000 below sticker, plus a 7 year-75k bumper-2-bumper warranty for only $945 extra.

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  Fuel efficient - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By subarudavis - May 26 - 7:29 am

  30k miles on the car now, running strong. I like the car, it has good audio, comfortable seats (not electric though), roomy, and most of all its economical to run. My insurance gives me a break because its a hybrid, I pay a lot less for gas, and it is reliable. These features save me money but I am a little angry at toyota for making it so hard to change headlights, I had to bay a few hundred because the whole front bumper needs to be taken off to get to the HID lights on the touring model. No mechanical issues, one electrical issue with cd player not working, and the GPS is horrible. Not very fun to drive and not powerful. I get about 45mpg overall.

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  2004 Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By gsmith - May 26 - 2:00 am

  We bought this car partly because we are environment-conscious and due to its features. So far we have not been disappointed. We have driven it about 200 miles. Great car, fun to drive. Good design, ample leg space and cargo space. Better mileage than its competitors in its class. However, mileage is ranging around 42-45 mpg in city driving conditions, much less than the EPA estimates, may be because of winter and the break-in period. The car is quite smooth and except during acceleration between 10 and 30 mph. External road noise from other cars is quite audible especially on highways. Need to improve sound insulation.

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  Great car - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By Bas - May 25 - 4:10 pm

  This car is just great. Fuel consumption is excellent. The car has enough power for everyday use. All our friends are very positive about this car. Only bad thing is that you cant tow anything.