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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  Unbelieveable - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Comm MD - May 11 - 5:13 pm

  Ive had 17 vehicles so far at the age of 28. From 1967 to 2004 and chevy to toyota this car is quite impressive. At first you may be taken by the overall exterior design, but once you get in this car everything changes. Its like a computer on wheels and has every accessory youll ever need. The interactive display is amazing with the navigation and integrated phone system. Plus the added bonus of seeing what engine is running and what MPG your getting at any specific point in time while your driving. Its interesting to know that your gas engine is off whenever your coasting, braking, or in stop and go traffic. You have got to test drive this car to get the feel of it.I guarantee youll buy

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  Toyota wins again - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By p. morris - May 9 - 11:13 pm

  My guess is the first generation Prius has hurt the new model. Most folks are amazed at the interior room of front and back seats, Front seats are very ng vi easy to take on long rides.Grey cloth seems to show slight wear after only 10 months and easy use. Perhaps the 2006 will have better cloth or even leatherette would be better. Car is smooth at all speeds and especially quiet for the driver.Engine shut down in traffic is great feature that few cars can have.$75k BMW owners do not have this great feature. A/C works great at all times, even at a stop. Technology is terrific at this price.MPG complainers are possibly inaccurate in their tests as my typical reult is 53 mpg in mix

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  Meets our Needs, Expectations - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Tom S - May 8 - 6:03 pm

  Great for mountain roads at high altitudes. Great 0-60 acceleration Plan to have passenger seat ADA modified for tall passengers.

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  THE car for America today - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By DonM - May 7 - 11:10 pm

  The Prius is the best common-sense car sold in America. It wont outrun other cars whose design is optimized for performance, either in a straight line or on a windy road. What it will do is carry 4 passengers and luggage with competent power, excellent ride, predictable handling, smooth operation, and as everyone knows, fantastic gas mileage. Its interior design is pleasing, and has a convenient layout both ergonomically and in terms of utility. After owning "performance cars" that place their emphasis on acceleration and handling at the expense of ride, this car with its CVT is a total pleasure to relax in and drive. Good tunes, good nav and effective Bluetooth, very satisfying ride.

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  PraisesForPrius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By PraisesForPrius - May 7 - 2:00 am

  I have never been so excited about an automobile!!! This is the best thought- out, well designed, technically advanced automobile available today. It is underpriced for everything you get standard, particularly for such a techno complete auto; more gadgets and screen displays to keep any Star Trek fan thinking theyre in their own star- ship, and with an industry low .26 coefficient of friction, it almost IS as slick as a star-ship! Otherwise, just dont tell anyone its an economy car, theyll never know!

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  2010 Prius Touring - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By sg3msmith - May 7 - 12:25 am

  Own a 2010 Prius Touring. Still own a 2004 Prius. This third gen car is a great step up. The driving position is much more comfortable than previous generation. Quieter cabin ride. Engine develops more HP and you can tell the difference. Like the positioning of the controls (much easier to see everything). Very nice car. Glad to have my 2nd Prius.

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  A Fine Auto - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Dan Doyle - May 4 - 11:36 am

  We enjoy driving our Prius past gas stations and on the open road. Able to keep up with the traffic on the express way as well as an easy and reliable drive in the snows of the UP of Michigan. Come on US auto makers catch us if you can. We would love to buy American, and will when they can match the quality of Toyota.

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  Great car....for a smaller guy - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Kyle Hunt - April 25 - 7:52 pm

  I absolutely love my Prius....words I thought Id never say! I got a new job a little further away from home so I thought I should buy something a little more economical. The Prius fit the bill and I bought it a few days before I started. I bought the basic model, nothing fancy...and I love it. I wish it had auto lights and power seats, but I get along just fine w/out em. What is starting to bother me a little is the comfort in the front seat. For quick trips its not bad, but when Im sitting in traffic for an hour or more my back starts to hurt. Granted my back hurts most of the time anyway, but not as much when Im in my other cars. Overall I still love the car. Getting 58 mpg currently and love that! Filling up last time cost me <$18...oh wait, thats the 1 and only time Ive filled up in a month! Hard to complain about that! If youre in the market for a Prius, just get it.

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  2007 Toyota Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Gerry E. - April 21 - 1:23 pm

  I have had my 2007 Prius since 2-28-07 and I am reasonably pleased with it. I have tried the pulse and glide method for more fuel economy and they work pretty well. My Prius is Barcelona Red and the paint is nice but chips very easily. I have gotten up to 53 M.P.G. using the Pulse and Glide method. It generally gets 50-52 M.P.G. between 65-75 on the highway during temperatures of 45-75F degrees. It seems that when the temperature dips so does the mileage to around 47M.P.G. in the colder months.

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  Great car... wave to the gas pumps - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By icvalue - April 21 - 4:56 am

  Outstanding car overall, Great gas mileage (46 avg.). Very reliable car. Better acceleration than most small cars and it handles very well. Much roomier than I expected.