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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  Best Car Ive ever owned - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Bill - April 20 - 10:46 am

  I live in the mountains, but I still have a lifetime MPG of 50.7. Climate control is fantastic, stabilization control, tire pressure monitoring and 6 air bags, makes this car very safe. Hybrid-electric doesnt mean gutless. While you will sacrifice MPG for the moment, you can accelerate up a steep grade to 80 MPH + and keep up with anyone. No keys to mess with is great, just approach the car and cabin light up and the door opens, get in and go. This is truly a car ahead of its time. Ive had -0- repairs or warranty work in nearly 2 years and 40,000 miles. Im planning to buy a 2nd one.

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  LOVE my Prius!!! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By The Jedi Prius - April 19 - 7:20 pm

  I almost feel guilty about how much I enjoy my Prius. Going from my big, super-trimmed out (but warranty-expiring/$60 a week gas hog) Town & Country van, I worried the Prius would be a big step down in comfort but a huge step up in gas mileage w/ the security of being back under warranty. Forget worry--Im wowed. Although it appears small, its actually bigger than the Corolla, & the cabin is amazingly roomy, even for adults in the back. It has a respectable amount of cargo room, w/ 2 fold-flat rear seats which make for a very spacious hatchback. The navigation pkg is loaded w/ so many extras I havent even begun to figure it all out. Cleverly engineered, sexy, fun 2 drive & very safe.

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  Well Done Toyota - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By johnklein13 - April 18 - 2:53 pm

  The product development folks at Toyota have really done their homework on this vehicle. All problem areas of the previous iteration of the Prius have been addressed and, overall, put out a magnificent little vehicle. Handling, power, convenience features, comfort,fit and finish, economy, storage facilities are all excellent.

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  Great Features, Ugly Looks - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By Darek - April 17 - 2:00 am

  For every up there has to be a down. The everything about it is great but the look is just ugly. The rims are too small, the body mold is not acceptable, and its too high.

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  best car ever - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By ralph dufus - April 15 - 10:00 am

  this is the best car i have ever owned. it replaced a rather new MBZ, and this car is way more fun.

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  Prius is a winner - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By jimsimpson - April 15 - 6:40 am

  Bought my Prius as ex-demo with 670mls in Dec 07. Now have 8150 and got over 50 mpg(US)/62(UK) with last 6 tanksful, best mpg in summer and cruising under 60. Thats about 20% thruway/80% city and suburbs. Hard ride on 195/55/16s but comfortable and quiet. As usual its very reliable and well-built. Im sold on this one but look forward to the bigger, better 1.8.

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  Better than Expected - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By PBeckman - April 13 - 5:53 am

  A great car with many good surprises. Only problems are with the manual, which is often useless; the front seat, which needs greater adjustability; and the steering wheel control lights, which are barely visible. We average in the mid 40s even in the Minnesota winter. The handling is excellent; very quiet cabin; almost parks itself; lots of room in the back and good cargo space. For those who complain about the back-up beep, it can be turned off via the screen input. Also, the green glow on the screen is easily eliminated by simply using the dimmer switch, which still allows plenty of illumination. All in all, a great car that leaves little to be desired.

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  Saving is Pure Fun with Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By MinPin - April 12 - 4:43 am

  Wow! What an impressive car. Love all the technology. Checking mileage as you drive is not only fun, but Im learning to get even higher mileage. Great not having to have a key. I just throw the control in pocket or purse and go. Nice and quiet. Comfortable. Great cargo space for shopping finds and crate for my dog - who loves that he can now see out. Easy to handle. Great stereo system. Use the MP3 plug in a lot too. Very nice. Cup holders that really hold a cup! Water bottle holder on the doors. Map and vanity lights. Smooth and comfortable. Ive already ordered my 2010! Love the clean air and helping the environment.

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  Awesome - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By sparkyhh - April 10 - 8:03 pm

  I absolutely love my prius. I will never buy anything but a hybrid again. I cannot even think of anything that I do not like about my car. A sunroof would be nice but then you might lose the aerodynamics. And who wants to give up the miles per gallon you get for a sunroof. Not me. Everyone that ridess with me loves it too. I have the navigation system and it is great when I travel. This is a great car.

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  Great car - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By wcroninger - April 6 - 10:00 am

  Weve been 101% happy with this vehicle. Gas mileage is somewhat better than claimed. We have a 45 mile total daily commute at speeds 55-60mph. Sufficient umph for turnpike driving and sufficient pickup once you get used to the idea that you have to use the accelerator alittle harder than usual to bring the electric motor online. All around great car.