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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  Great Car - comfortable cruiser - great MPG - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By tiversen - October 8 - 10:34 pm

  Had to spring for the Prius 5 since the fabric seats in the 3 were the worst (flat with no lumbar support). The leatherette seats in the 5 are awesome. Plus the 5 wheels are nice. The car is quiet, comfortable and can fit five, with room in the back for three to four wheeled carry-on suitcases. With about 1000 miles getting about 49mpg on the readout and about 46mpg using the manual calc method - in 80% hwy 20% city. Short 5 minute trips will only get you about 30 to 40 mpg since the engine has to warm up before it shuts off at stops. Still twice the mileage in the city of any gas miser. Have got up to 75mpg on a short trip when I used only the ev mode (slow excel) up to 35mph.

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  Only car to own - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By G Brach - October 8 - 8:36 pm

  McPherson strut bolts had to be retorqued at 23500. Original tires Goodyear integrity lasted only 22,500. Dealership treatment was EXCELLENT! Have another on order. Get your order in-You wont be disappointed! Car is very fast. Goes by everything including GAS Stations! Wonderful utility with hatchback.

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  Zippy economy-feel car w/cool technology - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By MoFrog - October 6 - 6:43 pm

  The Touring model has good handling (little body lean on turns) and is fun to drive. However, it rides much like an economy car (a bit road noisy and you can definitely feel bumps, RR tracks, etc.) Some interior materials feel cheap esp. fabric and plastic dash/doors. However, there is a lot of cool technology way ahead of the average car. It gets very good mileage, avg. 44, best 50.1. We drive 400 miles on a tank and all fill-ups have been UNDER $30 even w/CA gas prices up to $3.29 gal - ouch!. It also has very good power for small HP engine. Goes up highway hills with no problem, but works hard going up lower speed mountain roads. Next time would buy Touring model w/o any pkg.

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  I love this car!! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Orracle - October 6 - 5:36 pm

  I havent been in love with a car since my 69 Mustang in high school. It has totally changed my driving habits. Now, instead of trying to get from point A to B as fast as possible, I try to get the best mileage. I love the space in the cargo area and for me it is a very comfortable ride.

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  2004 Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Donna - October 3 - 1:13 am

  Best car, by far, that we every bought. Unbelievable handling and turning radius. Gas mileage? I get 48 to 55 MPG. Rides like a caddy. You cant tell when it shifts from gas to electric and back. Smooth, keyless entry, keyless starting, is great. Bluetooth interfaces with my cell phone, voice commands, GPS system, very high tech, like your riding in a Jetsons car! Stopping power is great, the anti lock system stops the car on a dime. We will buy another next year, will never buy an all gasoline car again.

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  orthless - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By B Howard - October 2 - 3:50 am

  Bought it initially due to high travel. The cheap wheels slipped on wet pavement and were jittery. Although I have had no mechanical issues with the vehicle, now that Toyota reputation has gone down the crapper, I have a useless piece of crap to trade in or sell. I will not buy another Toyota based on the loss of value at trade-in. And that includes the Toyota dealerships. You are better served to look at other brands. Plain and simple, dont do it!

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  So far so good... - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By sb - October 1 - 7:56 am

  I had this car for about 1 week, No problems runs smooth. Fuel Economy is closer to 48 mpg way below the 60 reported by the EPA. That was disappointing. However the freeway consistently topped at 51. Fun car to drive...

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  Toyota Prius is a Winner - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By DFS - September 30 - 2:00 am

  My 2004 Toyota Prius does everything well. Adequate power and great fuel economy. Plenty of useful storage space when the back seats are lowered. The controls are well designed. Toyota has given this car a lot of thought, and it shows. This car proves that energy and the environment can be conserved without sacrifice.

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  LOVE THIS CAR!!! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By poohbear1947 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  love this car!im not a auto tech person or someone that has to go 0-60 in 3 seconds and take corners going 60 mh.this car is FUN to drive.has lots of "gadgets" which are fun to use and watch.really comfortable inside with lots of room,front and back,im 61"and 270.this is the first car that i really look for reasons to drive.my commute to work is only 5 miles(one way)and im getting 41.2 mpg,no freeway driving.

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  Our Space Shuttle - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By levertz - September 24 - 2:00 am

  We got one with all the bells and whistles. It is by far one of the best vehicles Ive ever driven. The ride is smooth and quiet. It has tremendous pick up when you need it. Toyota has added features that are usually only found in higher priced luxury vehicles...dual interior ceiling lights, door lights, assist handles above all four doors. Standard tie down on floor of hatchback. Sporty steering wheel.