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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  Full Warranty Coverage Hedges Risk - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By scro - February 13 - 2:00 am

  01 vehicle purchased was manufactured 05/00 and presently has 34,000 miles. Toyota servicing of vehicle is good and everything is covered, including tires and oil changes. About 1/2 the fuel efficiency in first 5 minutes of driving. In longer commutes fuel economy increases significantly. Excellant acceleration due to extra 70 horsepower electric engine that will simmultaneously engage with 1.5 liter gas engine. Car will run over 100 mph even on an uphill incline. Best tank of gas went 630 miles or about 57mpg. The extra weight of car due to hybrid technology makes car ride like a larger car and has good manuverability even at faster speeds.

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  Love My Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Myra - February 11 - 4:30 pm

  Great car! All my friends are jealous. If you are going to get it...go all the way. Get the GPS! It is fantastic!

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  Best car Ive had - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Joel Dorfman - February 10 - 10:50 pm

  Id love this car even if it didnt have very low emissions and great gas mileage. Its small, yet roomy. Quiet, responsive and attractive. I feel proud to drive it.

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  One Cool Car - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By mrmustard - February 10 - 4:24 am

  I have always been fond of any Honda or Toyota vehicle. I have depended on both manufacturers and theyve never let me down. I love the Prius, everything about it. It is enjoyable to drive and performs well on my 60 mile one way commute to work. The handling and responsiveness is is better than average. Fuel economy is outstanding and the consumption monitor has allowed me to correct my gas guzzling driving habits. The ride is smooth and quiet on the highway. Prius and “Hybrid Synergy Drive” make interesting conversation with friends. I wish I had owned one much sooner. The car is just plain cool.

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  A Little Gem - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By gafulham - February 1 - 7:56 am

  Bought an 06 with 61,000 back four years ago. I now have just under 105k on it. This thing is built better than any car I have ever owned. Toyota just thinks everything out so well -- even the tire jack is in an elegant little tray which keeps all of the parts together without rattling. I have never been too mindful of the gas mileage -- I generally get in the low 40s - but the real beauty of this car is the build quality. It is a base model but everything in it works as well today as they day it was built. Cars are expensive and these are more expensive than most cars in their class -- but they are worth every penny for the lack of drama they provide day in and day out.

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  Prius Breathe Easy - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Stella Wella - February 1 - 4:10 am

  2005 Prius got 47 miles to gallon in first 1000 miles. Great ride is better than Lexus IS300. Car handles prefectly at low soeed and excellently at high speed. Can easily accelerate past obnoxious highway traffic. It greet fun although just a half inch away from looking homely.

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  The best car Ive ever had - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Marque Sussman - January 31 - 5:20 am

  This car is fun to drive! It gets great mileage, as advertised, around 50 mpg. It looks great. It is extremely comfortable and has a huge amount of leg room in the rear seat. The heater and a/c are terrific. The radio and 6 CD changer are excellent quality. The GPS system and maps are tremendously helpful when in unfamiliar locations.

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  Great car - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Jerry Coghlan - January 30 - 9:10 pm

  Love to drive the car in the city and on the highway. Even the back seat is comfortable to ride in on extended trips. Would like to see the hybrid technology in the Toyota trucks.

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  Very efficient, reliable, high operation - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By honman - January 29 - 10:46 am

  Efficient, reliable, good fuel mileage, smooth ride, but lacks power on hilly ride.

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  Minnesta cold - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By rhuber - January 24 - 3:40 am

  Very quality automobile, does not feel like an economy car. Quiet, solid, tight. 6000 miles on it and no problems yet. Even if it wasnt a hybrid it would still be a great auto.