Toyota Prius Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.69/5 Average
2,454 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 1761 through 1770 of 2,454.00
  • The future is here - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    The Prius must be experienced to be believed! We managed to get our Package #5 Prius at MSRP. It is really fun to drive and has sufficient room for a 65", 250+ pounder - even in the back seat! It feels solid and rides like a much larger vehicle, especially on trips. The most fun is in parking lots, when you drive past pedestrians on electric power. The double-takes are hilarious. Get the Smart Key feature. You never have to take your keys out of your pocket. Also, Toyota has a FREE special road service package for Prius owners and the best passive anti-theft package out there.

  • A New Owner - 2007 Toyota Prius
    By -

    This car is fun to drive and so very quiet. I love the technological advances Toyota has built into this. I especially enjoy the smart key system.

  • 05 prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I have had no problems with this vehicle. Fun to drive with options that are usually only available on much more expensive cars.

  • Exactly What It Promises - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Comfortable, reliable, great mileage, attention to detail, dealer follow up after the sale. This car is everything it promises - good power when needed, great mileage, lots of comfort

  • 2007 Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I have owned and driven the Prius for 8 months and have had no problems. Just take it to the dealer for regular oil change and check-ups. It has needed no repairs, just regular maintenance. At 7500 miles the dealer told me that I had 98% of the disk pad left. Thats amazing only 2% used in these 8 months. I do equal city and hwy driving. I have the regular 4 door with all the options except leather seats.

  • Awesome! - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I am getting 45 mpg in hot and humid conditions, expect better when the weather turns cool. I park in the garage to keep prying eyes away! Love it. I have 4 cars, and this is the one I drive the most now.

  • Heat issues in Michigan - 2008 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I bought my Prius just before the economy crashed. Dont drive it in the winter as it takes forever to warm up and wont keep ice or snow buildup off the windshield. Im concerned about comments on quitting for no reason and dead battery. I stored mine last winter and started it every couple of weeks with no problems. But didnt get it out until March. Mileage goes south when weather is cold. So I just drove my Pickup beginning in late Nov. until March. Also noted that tire wear is excessive. They must have used a cheap tire as OEM. Wouldnt buy another as insurance is high and needing a different vehicle for the seasons defeats economy of transportation. Its built well though.

  • Great Way to Be Green - 2010 Toyota Prius
    By -

    I drove previous versions of the Prius for work and our new personal car is a real step up in the comfort department. Still gets good mileage and fun to drive, makes commuting easy and painless at the pump. We are getting around 48 mpg town and highway driving with no change in our driving habits. Plenty of power on the freeway when you need it.

  • No better technology out there. - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Ive owned a 2005 for only a month. I am still amazed at the technology that Toyota has designed into this car. Its also fun to drive. My second car is a convertible sports car, and I must say that most often, its difficult deciding which one to take out.

  • Simply the Best - 2005 Toyota Prius
    By -

    Great mileage, pick-up is awesome, highway driving and reliabilty ++++ move in a "Bose" and Id live in it

Toyota Prius Reviews By Year:
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