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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  Hybrid Surprise - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By gro - February 14 - 10:56 pm

  I was amazed at how peppy the car is. I think it is because there is no drag on the motor from the Air Conditioner or the power steering, which are both run by electric motor. One of the best cars I have ever owned.

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  Fun to save - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Klebel, Wolfgang - February 14 - 10:00 am

  I just have the Prius for a few week, but my dribving has changed. I save more gas because I drive with an eye on the Power picture, always being aware a little less gas can save it and get me there in good time. Especiallthe stopping and starting is more leasurly and saves!

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  Will never buy a gas car again - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By newyawk2000 - February 14 - 8:53 am

  I bought my 2003 model Prius in late 2002. At the time only two hybrids were available in the market, the other was Honda civic. I chose the Prius because it was roomier. I had a major engine problem a year ago but thankfully was covered under warranty: The fuel injectors were replaced. Otherwise the only other problem has been the tires wearing out fast. Make sure you get a warranty on tires.

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  Love It - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By jor - February 13 - 8:20 am

  Cant understand people complaining about mileage, Ive NEVER gotten under 48 mpg and average 52-60! Roomy, even rear seat is comfortable. Its not as comfortable as my Lexus, but then theres a big difference in $$$. No complaints at all about handling: solid, takes hills well, very peppy, have to watch speed on interstate or Ill be doing 80 without realizing it. I laugh all the way to the gas pump these days!

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  My Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By L Heathman - February 13 - 6:10 am

  If there is one thing, be sure not to leave a door open all night. My son didnt shut my hatch all the way. The next AM, I couldnt start it. And it will not move. You cant just put it in neutral and back it out. You better have an extra long set of jumper cables.LOL. Seriously though, I love the car, its got great cargo space and very comfortable inside. I got the basic model, one I could afford, and find. They are very hard to come by. What you save in gas and insurance from day one will make up the cost.

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  Better than a Cadillac - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Pat Buckley - February 11 - 8:00 pm

  We are still pleased with our 2002 Prius and had to fly to North Carolina to get a 2006 when the waiting list in NJ was 10 months. Not sorry we gave up our Cadillac.

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  Great gas mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By SOLD! - February 9 - 3:56 am

  Other reviewers commented on the gas mileage being far lower than the sticker. I have had the car for a couple of weeks now and I have not been below 51.5 average commuting. I guess if you drive conservativley, you will get better mileage. The car is very smooth and fun to drive. It has plenty of get-up-and-go if you need to pass. I came from driving a full size pickup (rough and terrible mileage).

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  I Love It - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Geo. - February 7 - 3:16 am

  I have driven only 1300 mi. On vacation a pick-up left turned in front of me. I had to swerve into the left lane to aviod him and quickly back to aviod another vehicle behind him (50 yards or so) I was going about 50. I do not know if the stability control engaged. The car handled it perfectly.

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  After 20 years of driving, Im in love! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Rocky - February 6 - 3:13 am

  Ive been driving for 20 years. I never thought Id say this, but I LOVE my car! To me, cars get you from point A to B, thats it. But this car is not just a vehicle, its an experience! Watching the fuel consumption graph as you go makes driving feel almost like a game. Im always striving to get the mpg as high as possible, just because its fun. The thing feels like the deck of the Starship Enterprise. Its not overwhelming by any means, but you feel like you are sitting in a car from the future. The seats and cloth upholstery are so-so, nothing close the amazing seats in my Volvo. But the rear legroom is astounding. And my head is nowhere near hitting the roof, and Im 61.YES!

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  Has some very good traits and bad ones - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Tall Dude - February 4 - 7:00 pm

  Might want to look elsewhere if over 6ft tall as I am. Ergonomics have become annoying - rear view mirror mostly in road-level line of sight and legs cramped by non-height adjustable seat. Marginal power up steep hills, and need to give lots of gas to accelerate onto freeway onramps. Otherwise, cruises flats well, very smooth ride, fairly quiet interior. You may wish the gas motor was off all the time since the electric drive is captivating. Car is well built, high quality inside and out, save the lack of seat / steering wheel adjustments. JBL audio system pretty good, not amazing though. At 6ft 3in, I would not buy this car again.