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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  Review - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By FDH - November 29 - 6:33 pm

  I drive this Prius about 200 miles every week. I average about 55 miles to the gallon depending on the wind here in the Texas Panhandle. I averaged over 50 miles to the gallon when we drove to Salt Lake City and back. This trip was about 2000 miles and in the mountains. There was 4 adults in the car besides our luggage. I drove about 70 miles an hour. We just got back from Virginia. We drove 10 hours one day and 16 hours the next day at about 72 miles an hour. There was 5 of us in the car. Three adults and two children plus our luggage, we averaged about 50 miles to the gallon, and this trip was about 4000 miles. I am very happy with my Prius and wouldnt trade it for any car.

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  Rock solid reliability - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By ripdaddy - November 27 - 12:46 pm

  I was a bit concerned with the added complication of hybrid technology. But historically the Prius has been one of most reliable cars on the road. Ive never see mention of battery pack failure and they seem to last far beyond their guaranteed life span. I enjoy driving the car. The steering wheel is a bit of a reach even with the telescoping column. I cannot get the seats situated where I can spend an extended time driving. Im 61" but because of the steeply raked windshield I have to position the seatback rearward before I can comfortably see under the top edge of the windshield. The pressure on my tailbone quickly becomes uncomfortable. Id still buy a Prius again, though.

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  Still in love three years later - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Bob - November 27 - 1:50 am

  I got my Prius, the everything-but-the-kitchen-sink version, in late October 2003. It now has 50K miles on it and has been absolutely flawless; the only time its been in the shop is for routine service every 5K miles, and for the rare-but-proactive service bulletins that are inevitable with a car this technologically sophisticated. Again, Ive never had so much as a hiccup in the three years of ownership, and Toyota clearly takes pride in its build quality. I drive a lot of urban freeways and surface streets with lots of stops, and have averaged 47mpg over the life of the car (with a semi-lead foot). There is no doubt in my mind the next car I get will be another Prius.

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  A Fabulous Car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Sherry - November 26 - 7:50 pm

  I absolutely love my 2005 Prius. I find it is comfortable to ride in, even having had 3 fusions surgeries on my back. It is also fun to drive and has plenty of power. My best mileage so far was on the freeway when I got close to 50 mpg.

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  New to Toyota - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Bruce - November 25 - 11:56 pm

  This is my first Toyota, and hybrid. It is just fun to drive and try to beat the computer. Everyone I know asks to take it for a test drive. The smart key is great. The only time I take the key out is to get into my home. Living in Florida, You MUST tint the windows. The seats and instruments are nicely grouped and comfortable, Not the car for you if you are a smoker. The steering wheel controls are all convenient and even large passengers say they are comfortable in front or back seats. Great premium sound and extra phone or mp3 jacks. One word to describe this car is COMFORTABLE!

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  Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By mar1234 - November 25 - 5:03 pm

  Great car. Would purchase another one when our family needs another car. I get over 50 mpg.

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  Its all that was promised & more - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By karen s - November 21 - 9:36 pm

  My 06 prius is a joy to drive. I get consistently at least 52 mpg to the amazement of the dealer. At first my husband drove with a little heavier foot -- & averaged only 45 mpg but now we are tied in our challenge of raising the numbers (while still keeping up with traffic).

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  Wonderful car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Hal Benham - November 20 - 1:36 pm

  The car delivers between 43.5 MPG and 45 MPG using a very heavy foot (going between 50 and 80 MPH in winter) and an average of 48 MPH when feathering the accelerator responsibly (up to 65 MPH). The best I have achieved doing a normal commuting week (20 miles each way from 50 to 65MPH)is 51.5 MPG. I am extremely pleased with the car and gas mileage. I know I would get over 50MPG in city driving. The interior design is beautifully done particularly, as it relates to use of space. The instrument panel displays are incredible and outside views (front and back)are excellent. (Tiny front windows, drop down hatchback trunk window and contoured roof line shows perfect engineering design

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  Economical People Mover - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By mickeyrom - November 20 - 6:20 am

  If all that matters is economy...this is a very good car.If comfort on a long trip is important....forget it.The seat has only two adjustments...backward and forward, and angle of the back.The steering wheel can only be tilted,and it constantly makes contact with my knees. Instrument panel is very hard to see in the sunlight and lacks even a temp. gauge.The trip computer has no range position,So you had better not let it get too low.The car also makes lots of noises and does not seem to have the build quality of other Toyotas.A bit of a rattle trap.

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  Time to Put it Down - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By jtn16 - November 16 - 9:09 pm

  I got this car used in 2011. I was averaging a commute of 400-500 miles per week as a college adjunct. The first year of owning this Prius was fun, mainly because of the novelty of going hybrid. Then I got established and didnt need to commute to 4 campuses a day. Got married. Got a dog. I took the car out to camp several times. It couldnt hold up well to our busy and slightly chaotic lifestyle. The hatch rubber handle melted my first summer with it and shortly after the whole back hatch broke due to its brittle plastic. Had issues with the power button throughout. I put only 50K on it. It might be time to let it go.