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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  Priusaurus - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Priusaurus - August 31 - 1:30 am

  I traded in a Ford Explorer for my Prius. This was one of the most intelligent, consumer moves Ive ever made in my 49 years. I will buy another one as soon as I pay this one off. I live on a 1/2 mile, rugged, dirt road in Northern California and with a Prius, I realized, I no longer need 4-wheel drive or the high-rise SUV profile. The Prius handles the dirt and snow just fine. We have traveled for four hours with five people in the Prius and we all agreed, comfort was spectacular! The navigation system is an added bonus. I will never buy another car without it. We average 43 mpg around town, but have gotten up to 56 mpg on long trips to Mt. Shast and Lake Tahoe. Excellent car!

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  Best car on the market - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mike Rankin - August 30 - 1:06 pm

  This is the best car I have ever owned!!! It was worth the 6 month wait to get it. It does not, however, get 60 city and 51 highway. I am getting between 47-51 mpg but I am plenty happy with that. I was surprised at the pickup for this hybrid. We got the total package with all the bells and whistles to include the navigator. Well worth the money and the wait. If GM doesnt get with this program then they are truly being run by dinosaurs. I never thought I would own anything but an American car but they simply cannot compare with the Toyota.

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  Initial impressions - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By lamike1 - August 30 - 12:11 pm

  We bought it to get great gas mileage and thats what it does. After driving on 1 tank, we averaged 45 mpg...yeah, its not the 48/51 as stated on the EPA but I can definitely live with 45 mpg when gas is creeping to $4/gal. Also, dont let people tell you otherwise, there is plenty of space in this car. No its not a minivan or an SUV but its spacious enough for a family of 4. I plan to write a review a year from now on it but initial first impressions are definitely very positive!

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  The best car in the world - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By GBRACH - August 29 - 2:56 pm

  Best car in the world. Has no equal. We have bought 3 and will buy 08 when it comes out. My advice is to GET ONE! You will not be disappointed.

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  Yahooo! - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By beczter - August 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car to own. Not only is it fun to drive with suprisingly good pick-up on freeways, its gas mileage makes me smile as I see all of the hefty SUVs filling up at the station. If you are a commuter, this is the perfect vehicle. And you will waste no fuel when sitting in stopped traffic! This car requires the same maintenance as any other non-hybrid.

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  Best car Ive owned - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By MATTHEW - August 19 - 5:46 pm

  I used to own a Lexus LS 400 and, granted it was getting old but I find this car so fully advanced with navigation and bluetooth for my phone and most importantly the stability control. With front wheel drive and the VSC, the car handles so much better than the old Lexus. 50 miles plus per gallon and not polluting doesnt hurt.

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  Greatest car I ever owned - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By John Bilodeau - August 18 - 3:03 am

  I have a 2004. I have driven it 11,000 miles. I get 52 mpg in the spring , summer and autumn. In the winter months I am averaging about 47 mpg. Its fun to drive.The climate control is great. There is plenty of passenger room in the front and the back. There is also ample luggage storage in the back. Every thing works well all the times. No problems.The controls are user friendly and easy to use.It has plenty of muscle on the highway. No trouble passing.You cant feel the transmission shifting.

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  The Perfect Car! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By jhinsc - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Prius IV over 2 weeks ago and have over 1,700 miles now. Love the MPG! Avg over 50 mpg as I learn the tricks to stay with traffic but get better mileage. Visibility is great with all the windows - no blind spots for me. I wish the drivers seat had power adjustments for better comfort but the lumbar support helps. Its a conversation piece with all my clients who dont mind at all riding with me.

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  Perfect for retirees - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By pablo - August 12 - 5:23 am

  We bought this when gas reached $3/gal in Colorado - mainly for use around town. The Prius has turned out to be great for road trips too - adequate power and no problem keeping up with Interstate traffic at 75 - 80mph. With a little care we consistently get 50 - 55 mpg in town, 48 to 52 mpg on long trips. Only complaints are cheapness of interior (with Package 6 leather) and unattractiveness of shiny black plastic interior trim.

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  lovit - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By brooknew - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Its what the world is waiting for! Its a get-in-and-go car with lots of comfort, style and room.