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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  High MPG - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Lewis - December 29 - 11:06 am

  I drive mostly country roads and interstates. In winter, I always get at least 47 mpg. In summer I always get over 50 mpg (usually 52). Reviews reporting low 40s must either be in very cold climates or must be from drivers attempting to get low mpg. My year-round average is about 50.

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  2010 Prius IV Low gas mileaage - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By clarkins - December 26 - 3:25 pm

  I purchased my 2010 in october of 2010 and car is ok, but a few design flows, like heated seats under center dash, vision do not extend, no power seats. I have been tracking the mileage fo car since purchase and only average 40.13 mpg after 17 tanks and 7000 miles. Not happy with that at all. The only time the cars has seen 50 + mpg is costing down hill for about 30 miles. dealer said t put premium gas in to increase mpg, if I wante dto put premium gas in a car I have my Lexus for that, not this Prius. The sticker says nothing about having to use high grade gas to get 50 mpg. Its a very misleading sticker and advertising from Toyota. Quaility not what is use to be either.

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  survey - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By rgar - December 25 - 3:53 pm

  so far driving this car has been a great experience. would definitely buy again, but would like to see a moonroof added as an option

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  Id buy another! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Bill - December 22 - 4:06 pm

  I bought this vehicle after my 3rd $1200 VW Passat repair bill in 6 months. I fell in love with the turn radius, handling, pickup in the city on the test drive. The inside feel is as if the car has wrapped itself around you in a cocoon of quiet. The first time I pulled up to a stop sign, there was utter silence! I am continually surprised at what you can get in the back with the second seat folded down- it folds flat! I also own a Mazda Miata and I prefer driving the Prius!

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  Repeat Prius buyer - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Steve Nelson - December 22 - 3:08 am

  Car seems not to hold the road as well as old Prius. Cut down the weight to improve fuel economy. Less rear storage space😒

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  06 Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By 06 Prius - December 21 - 2:50 pm

  This Prius replaced my 2003 Prius; I thought the 03 was ahead of its time, but my new one is just outstanding. I am currently averaging 49.1 MPG, most of which is high speed interstate driving (6000) miles.

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  Great Car for More Reasons than One - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By brian_g - December 21 - 7:30 am

  I bought a Prius before Hurricane Katrina. Now that prices are back down, my neighbors snicker as they get into their Escalades and Expeditions. For most people I have met, the Prius seems too extreme. However, I enjoy the car so much that I find myself interested in long trips again. I volunteer to run errands. It is just "fun". The performance is much better than I expected, and although initial acceleration is a little pokey, passing is easy and the car does fine at highway speeds. The ride is comfortable, the interior is ergonomically pleasing, and I have room for my family (3 kids). Finally, I feel confident that I am saving energy.

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  Glad I bought mine when I did - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By jack - December 20 - 10:03 am

  Very comfortable drivers seat.

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  Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Barbara McFadden - December 17 - 2:26 am

  We have had many cars, from Volvo to Acuras, but the Prius is my favorite. I just love the way it handles and it has speed. My only problem is that somone hit me from the back and almost totaled it.

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  Best Car I have Driven - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By v8ck - December 15 - 4:40 pm

  I do believe its the best car ive driven. Our other cars had lots of flaws. I get extremely good gas mileage, which takes work and a 15k mile break in period. Currently im achieveing over EPA rating of 60mpg with highway driving about 75% of the time. I recommend this car to everyone. Ive seen people who drive BMWs, Mercedes, and just about every luxury car out there switch to the prius and really enjoy it. Savings in maintenance is going to be incredible. Oil changes every 5k. Gas engine will last 500k. Battery last more than 300k so far. (tested in real life) Gas savings... etc. No real transmission. it will last the life of the engine.