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 Our Car! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By JJohnson - May 24 - 2:00 am

  Just completed the first road trip in our new Prius. What a great car! The drive/ride was extremely comfortable. Lots of power. I easily cruised at 70+ in the mountains and averaged right at 50 mpg. We obviously made the right choice in purchasing a Prius. Its the best car Ive ever driven.

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  Very Happy - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By bobfitz - May 19 - 11:20 pm

  We filled up for the first time today. Change back from a $20. As the price of gas goes up I am sure we made the right choice. I love sitting at a traffic light and the gas engine is off.

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  This is a great car!! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By TJ. California - May 19 - 5:50 pm

  I just bought a IV with Solar roof 5 days ago. Going from a Lexus ES, I considered between a Lexus IS 250 and Prius. The decision was really hard. I admitted the first day driving home from the dealer was really regretted for getting the Prius, but the more I drive it, the more I like it, now I cant wait to drive it again. It has more power than I expected, smooth drive, very cool features, apprx 220 miles now and average MPG is 40+ but I have been using a/c all the time. I got white (very hard to find) & the solar roof makes it looks really nice w/ white; I strongly recommend this veh.

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  Beware if you go out of town - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By jood - May 17 - 11:03 am

  We went away for l2 days. Car stone dead when we came home. Couldnt even get into the car. Called AAA and they charged it. Drove to local dealership and also called Toyota. Have learned that if you leave the car for more than 10 days you have to go thru an elaborate process to unhook the battery, use the emergency key to get into the vehicle and then get it jump started. Where? at the airport parking lot? Toyota says we should have known this. It is not in the manual. A real drawback. Also seats not comfortable.

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  Be Realistic, Unbelievable Value - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By bryant1981 - May 16 - 10:22 pm

  We traded our loaded 2007 Lexus RX350 for the 2012 Prius, I knew it was smart for us but worried wed be too sensitive to the luxury adjustment-we werent, the Prius is a much nicer car than most people think. Barcelona Red Metallic over Tan is a great color combo! Smooth & quiet, I drive for Uber & Lyft and passengers are always pleasantly surprised at the space and road manners. Swap the OEM Goodyear tires for Michelins and all is complete. We are getting between 48 and 59 MPG varying on speed/road conditions/passenger Weight. No regrets, wont drive anything but a Hybrid, we save so much money and sacrifice nothing on comfort. Its sad that the Prius is often spoken of so negatively

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  Commuting Pleasure - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Alys1 - May 12 - 3:23 am

  Great fun to drive, much better handling than expected. Have to keep an eye on the speedometer - easy to drive at high speeds without noticing. Fuel economy has been better than anticipated started out at 42 mi/gal, now getting mid 50s on a regular basis. I sent $30 on gas last month - with a 40 mile round trip commute in stop and go traffic. I am very happy with the car overall, it is roomy and comfortable with lots of cargo space.

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  the best car Ive ever owned - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mary Bowman - May 9 - 11:30 pm

  My Prius is the best car Ive ever owned. I love its peppy feel, comfortable ride, roomy interior. Most of all, I love the 45-50 mpg Im getting. And I even enjoy the looks I get from other drivers, and questions from people about the car... I love bragging about it.

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  Fun, Economy, Reliability - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Preston Walrath - May 9 - 8:03 am

  Constantly on the road, great mileage, great reliabilty. Its the best car I have owned.

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  Business Vehicle - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Neil Rothe - May 8 - 7:23 am

  Ordered the Prius in September of 2005 and received on 01/23/06. Gas mileage is excellent at 44 MPG for all 9800 miles that Ive put on it so far. Car has suprisingly good pickup and is very solidly built. This vehicle replaced a Tahoe which I was using for business. Fit and trim are excellent. Wish true American car companies could build a car that gets this type of mileage. Also love the keyless aspect with automatic unlocking of drivers door with out having to funble for keys.

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  Fun to save gas - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Lois Phemister - May 7 - 8:13 pm

  I love this car. When I am slowed down in a traffic jam my car switches to the electric battery and gas mileage is terrific. Makes a traffic jam not so irritating. Furthermore, I know that my car is not adding to the fumes everyone is sitting in as we inch along. I have taken long 14 hour trips and am quite comfortable while averaging over 52 mpg. I find that noting the continuous mpg analysis on the screen on the dashboard has helped me to learn good gas-saving driving habits. It is like a computer game. My big dog rides comfortably in the hatchback area with the seat down and a quilt spread out. My grown children love to drive my Prius when I come to visit.