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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  delivers everything I want - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mark - December 31 - 11:13 pm

  The Prius offers outstanding comfort, features, and plenty of power, while reducing emissions and dependence on foreign oil. Four-door hatchback design makes it easy to bring along our dog or bulky cargo items. The controls, while unusual compared to other vehicles, are the most ergonomic Ive ever seen.

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  What a Concept - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Cyndi - December 29 - 12:36 pm

  This car is great! It is affordable, not too out of the norm looking and the design of the interior makes you forget that you are driving a small car, roomy and comfortable. During acceleration, there is suprisingly more oomph! then my previous car and of course then there is the legendary gas mileage. It makes you wonder why it has taken this type of technology so long to catch on.

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  Tims 2016 Prius Touring Review - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Timothy Piper - December 25 - 12:55 am

  Some people Ive met dont like the look of the new exterior design, the look of the wing tip rear lights in particular. I dont mind the looks but it takes some getting used to at first. It grows on you and I remind myself its not the main reason I bought this car. At least now it has its own identity from the millions of older Priuss out there. The white console and steering wheel appliques have way too much contrast against a black or grey interior. I insisted the dealer include the Black console applique and black interior. The moonscape interior is just too much for me. Besides from some little gripes on appearance, everything else is amazing. I traded in a loaded 2013 Prius and this car is so much nicer. The doors are solid and dont sound like tin cans, the engine electronics give you a noticeable gas mileage improvement. The Bose sound system is much better than the Bose system I had in my old car. The safety technology is very cool, the dynamic speed control is much smoother than my old car. The 2016 Prius looks different but it performs fantastic.

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  spaceship - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Herb - December 22 - 3:06 pm

  Traded in my dependable Civic ex for the Prius 11 . Everything seems about 1.5 times better on Prius. .Power, gas mileage, comfort and ride. Best car out there by far .

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  Still great 1.5 years later! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By hondoman45 - December 22 - 3:13 am

  I wrote a while back about my experience with my Prius. It is still a very reliable car that has not let me down. I replaced the 12 v battery myself as the original one was getting tired and wouldnt hold a charge any longer. Still get around 42 mpg in the cold and 46+ in warmer weather. This is great considering the car is driven an average speed of 72+ mph on the highway where it spends most of its time. The nav system isnt worth getting as it is woefully outdated and Im not willing to pay a couple hundred for an update at the dealer. Car rides well and is fairly quiet, but still dislike the leather seats as church pews are more comfortable. Very happy with my purchase!

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  Toyota Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By T.J.Stockard - December 22 - 2:00 am

  Its not only a fun car to Drive, but easier to park in tight places. My overall fuel economy has been about 47 MPG.

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  She rocks! - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Diane - December 21 - 11:13 pm

  I have never been happier! She rides great! Looks great! Is amazing on gas! Much more room than one would think! I cant say enough great things about my Prius! Thanks, Toyota!

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  I love my Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Noel Nesbitt - December 19 - 1:26 pm

  Since the first day I picked up my new car, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. It handles well, its comfortable, it is unique, it has pazazz and each time I fuel up I smile!

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  Popular Mechanics Meets Popular Science - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Jonathan Quick - December 19 - 6:03 am

  For the most part, I have been very impressed with this vehicle. Gas mileage is 3x better than my previous vehicle, with no noticeable loss of power. For the price, the number of features and new technologies packed into this vehicle is simply astounding. The list of cool features goes on an on. Where else can you get hybrid synergy drive, CVT, regenerative braking, stability control, ABS, electric AC, steering wheel AC / radio controls, automatic climate control, SmartKey keyless entry, rear camera, tire pressure monitoring system, 9 speaker MP3 stereo, etc. for less than $25k? Everything about this car suggests efficiency, reliability, and value. Wish Toyota had a hybrid minivan!

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  So much better than I anticipated - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By ken - December 18 - 4:20 am

  For those of you who have not driven one, you will be surprised. This car has surprising acceleration and lots of space inside. The Bluetooth, MP3 jack and backup camera are a real plus. The downside is the comfort level. The seats have little support, and are not comfortable for drive that goes beyond 45 minutes.