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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  love my toyota - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By joe colon - June 20 - 11:56 pm

  I’ve been driving this car for 11 months. I drove to Richmond Hills GA, a distance of 421 miles on 10.6 gals of gas. On interstate 95 it handle very well was able to cruise at the posted speed limits of 65 to 70 miles with no effort. In town driving I’ve received 49 mpg by staying off the interstate. When I drive in town and the interstate I average 43.3 mpg. I find it a fun car to drive. I like it clean lines, it a car who time has come. I’m looking forward to driving it cross-country. I’ve been driving for 55 years and truly enjoy driving this car. Before I purchase this car I drove a Buick Park Avenue Ultra for over 100000 miles on it.

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  Pruis is great - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By pencowgirl - June 20 - 9:53 pm

  I have owned the Prius only 2 months, and love the nav system, the handling, and the cost to fill up a tank of gas. I went from driving a BMW and think the handeling is comparable although the braking is not as good. It is nice to have the back up camera although on rainy or foggy days visibility is limited. I have a small dog and he sheds, the dash is a hair magnet as is the CD holder. I wish the seats were a little more cushy and electronically adjustable. I would recommend this car in an instant and have requests daily for people to test drive it.

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  Very good to a point - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By 72randy - June 16 - 2:00 am

  This car had been perfect until a few weeks ago. With about 80,000 miles on it a warning light went on and we were told by a dealer it was due to the failure of part of the computer system to the tune of $2230. Weve had six other Toyotas and have never had a major problem. With such low mileage, how can we continue to recommend this car to others? Were very angry being oldsters trying to navigate this economy with SSA and part time work. Disgusted.

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  lil,red - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Chris Krieger - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Performance is great considering the fuel economy average is about 53 mpg over life of the car.The color Barcelona red and exterior design is very beautiful.

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  A2DP w/ Blackberry 8330 sounds bad. - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Burgeoning - June 13 - 11:23 pm

  The car is great. My only complaints: 1. A mild whine from the engine compartment (maybe AC or elec motor). 2. Bluetooth streaming from a new Blackberry Curve 8330m sounds bad (popping/crackling) - Pandora and Slacker. Also a little battery whine gets to the radio when connected via the AUX port. 3. MPG has been <=40mpg around town. This is probably due to lots of lights. Ive been driving conservatively. 4. NAV uses CDs.

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  Best Car I have EVER owned. Period! - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Manny Marin Jr. - June 13 - 7:00 pm

  Having purchased a 2015 Prius Five for my Printing Business I was satisfied with the car BUT saw the Commercial during the NFL Stupidbowl this year. I was taken away by the styling of the outside of the car. Reminded my of the Auto Show where I saw Toyotas first Hydrogen vehicle concept. The lines were similar and the interior of that car blew me away. Fast forward to last week. Dropped the Prius Five for its first service and saw the 2016 Three Touring in the showroom. Like the look but the interior was missing something, mainly power seats. The Salesguy informed me that there was a Four Touring with all the bells and whistles. I saw it, drove it, and traded in my 2015 that night. The car drives much better. No hessitation when giving it throttle. Brakes waaaaaaaaay better. Seat is more comfortable. Love the Qi cell charging for my phone. Visability is better. Fuel economy is better as well. Still getting used to the rear end of the car which is growing on me. I also see Toyota changed the interior taking out a lot of the cheap looking white plastic inserts to black. Love the blue stitching in the black leather seats. Seat warmers are better. I am a fan!

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  Happy driver - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By no - June 8 - 12:53 pm

  This car is so great. Who knew that helping the environment could look and feel so good in a car!!! What a wonderful way to help mother earth. Im not a tree hugger, but owning this car sure makes me feel like one- currently avging about 45 mpg. Have been up around 50 at one point. Fun to play the mpg game while driving. Safety ratings through the roof- I’ve got my 2 kids in the back in their car seats. U need 2 buy this car!!

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  A Great Mix of Gas and Electricity - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Joe in Iowa - June 7 - 10:26 pm

  I have now owned my Base Prius-Package 6 for 7 mos and 7,700 mi. I love it with a couple of exceptions. First, it is best if you are not over 510" sitting in the front passenger seat. Second, the navigation system is a waste (spend $200 on a Garmin). The actual mileage I have had has ranged from 35-37 mpg (winter) to 44-48 mpg in the above freezing months. My dealer said this is a more realistic expectation than the published numbers. Otherwise, it drives great (expect performance commensurate with its horsepower),the interior toys and quality are terrific, and I would definitely buy another one. The leather seat covering is great, but for almost $30,000 I would expect elect. seats.

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  Holy Gas Mileage, Batman!! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Tom Nelson - June 2 - 9:23 pm

  Its a blast driving down the road at 35-40 mph, look at the display and see you are on electric only. I think Ive put gas in it 3 times since I bought it in early March. Average about 42-44 mpg. Handles really good and is very quiet. As annoying as the backup beeper is, it is a good safety factor as the car is so quiet.

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  Fun Car!! - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By v4rider - June 2 - 10:00 am

  We are the second owners of this car. I am a former auto tech and not really sure about performance or reliability with this car, but after test driving and now owning the car for awhile I am impressed with the overall value and driving experience. It has been well engineered and has many extras that are usually expensive options on other cars. Smooth acceleration and gear changes. I have had many friends and co-workers ask about the car and I tell them if anything ever happened to it I would buy another without hesitation. I am really impressed with 45 MPGs WHILE OPERATING the A/C! I live in NM and that is a plus.