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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  Bought a used touring model - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Mike - October 26 - 6:10 pm

  Averaging 45mpg. Performance is great for an engine this size and efficient. Paid $16,500 with nav, jbl, touring edition an 36500 miles. The incline of the front of the car causes a lot of bug paint damage to the hood and above windshield. A lot of sunlight inside the car due to the angles of the glass and there is no tint strip at the top of the windshield. Very pleased with gas mileage since my 06 m35 only averaged 19mpg. The car handles better than my $45k infiniti and handles rough roads much better. Seats are more comfortable too. At least the plastic interior looks good for plastic. I love the car and look forward to driving it and with each mile i drive im saving for my sons college

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  Great little car - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By KC - October 24 - 9:03 am

  I went from a Ford Expedition to a Prius. I dont miss my SUV at all (except when doing big grocery shopping) and love driving my Prius. I have made my first payment just in fuel savings. I thought I would miss sitting up high on the road, but I have learned to really enjoy riding lower. The lowest fuel economy Ive gotten was right at 40mpg and I do a lot of highway miles, in addition to city driving. It rides nice on the highway (even pass people with ease) and is comfortable on road trips. My only complaint is that I seem to be a rock chip magnet sitting lower to the ground.

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  MPG Machine - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Bone11241124 - October 23 - 1:46 pm

  I purchased the car specifically for maxing out my mpg and its lived up to its billing. In the 3 months Ive been driving it I average 62 mpg city/53 mpg highway/58 mpg combined (well above the combined 47 mpg EPA rating). Comfort and styling are above average in my opinion. Overall power is below average... but I didnt buy this car for the power. Great commuter car as it has already saved me $200 in gas compared to my former vehicle (2005 Toyota 4runner). You can find alternate commuter cars at a better price but not with this much comfort/styling or getting this good of mileage!

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  Have fun saving energy with min emission - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Prius - October 22 - 7:03 pm

  I am an electrical power engineer, so I like the technology incorporated in the Prius. I was not in the market, but rode in my brothers Prius in May, read several reviews,and got interested. Then I received my IEEE magazine with an article explaining why the Prius is the only family size vehicle that can provide an immediate reduction in gasoline usage and emissions. It explains why hydrogen fuel cells use more petroleum at this time, and estimates 10 years before fuel cells will be helpful. With pricing starting below $20k, and all the great features and options, I decided to not wait,and placed an order in June. Took delivery in 3 weeks at that time.

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  I love my Prius! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Jasons Prius - October 21 - 11:36 pm

  I traded in my 2005 Acura TSX for the Prius and I could not be happier. It was the best decision I made. I love getting 50 MPG and the car is keeping me from getting any speeding tickets. The Prius is very well built and easy to drive in the city. I love the fact that I am helping reduce our dependance on foreign oil and reducing my carbon footprint.

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  256k and still going! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Lindy Lykins - October 18 - 7:18 pm

  I bought this car with over 200k miles on it, and it is still an extremely good car. The front bearings needed replaced last year, and the hybrid battery finally quit at around 253k. But it was such a great car that I decided to install a refurbished hybrid battery ($900) and the car has been working fine since then. For a prius with this many miles, I am very satisfied with the continued reliability. It is unfortunate that the hybrid battery went out, but it had had so few other problems that I think it was worth it to fix it. I intend to drive it until the wheels fall off :)

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  Jeannie - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Jeannie - October 18 - 6:30 pm

  Lots of room in front seats. With hatchback model able to fit more in - went camping with it and fit in stuff for three. Gas mileage not nearly what was projected. With 5000 miles on the car, I average 38mpg around town and 45 on highway (oppisite of what they quoted - and geting less as engine ages). The best Ive gotten is 50mpg - all freeway miles in rush hour traffic. Handles poorly on wet road - slips a lot.

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  This car was snapped together! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Larry - October 17 - 1:40 am

  I think the previous generation was the best Prius so far, this newer generation is BAD. I have so many squeaks and rattles that I have given up trying to fix them, I just turn up the music. I don’t think the price that is asked for these cars are worth the savings in gas, I just going to drive this for a couple of years and get rid of it. Toyota should be ashamed of them selves for putting out such a disappointment. I really miss my 2008 white prius; it was the touring model and had everything on it.

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  One Fantastic Car - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By K. Adams - October 16 - 11:13 am

  Im loving this car. The multi information display allows me to monitor driving data in real time. Not only is this interesting (and fun), but its changed the way I drive for the better. Im getting 57 mpg in the city, which I expect to increase as time goes on. The car handles beautifully, with responsive brakes and steering. It has a solid, comfortable ride and roomy interior. The height-adjustable driver seat is a plus. The cargo area is generous, and I like the privacy screen that hides things from view. This Prius offers lots of other goodies, too. My only disappointment is the quality of the upholstery, which I think could be better.

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  Feature filled with economy plus - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By mitchell goodman - October 9 - 3:30 pm

  This is a great car. It has multiple safety features and unbeatable economy. If you drive it correctly, one can expect to get 52-55 mpg in the city and an easy 50 mpg on the highway. With the tax credit, it makes it a wise decision to buy, saving considerable fuel and putting virtually no pollutants into the environment. Although it technically is rated at 110 horsepower, this vehicle can really move on the highway if you need to "punch it".