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 - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Kathryn Brown - June 9 - 8:33 am

  This car is amazing and I will never not own another hybrid again! I am thrilled with the gas mileage, which has been 51-52 mpg average. I couldnt be happier.

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  Best car Ive ever owned!!! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Salem - June 7 - 2:53 am

  Its a great car throughout. Everything works perfectly and it drives far better than turbo-powered Passat I used own. Its very roomy for a small car. I live in New England and it has great winter traction. Its comfortable cruising at 70+ as well (though the gas mileage goes down to "just" 40). I have the GPS/NAV system and keyless entry. Its required no maintenance so far and the drive train is actually simpler than a typical automatic transmission.

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  Beware Prius - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By FMjustice - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Has a maintenance requirement that Toyota fails to disclose except in the fine print in the manual. The car must be run for 30 minutes at least every two weeks or both the 12 volt and hybrid battery may deteriorate. Upon being asked, Toyotas staff informs one that failure to comply with the requirement may result in the warranty on the hybrid battery (for which they will not disclose the replacemet cost) being voided. Honda, at least, gives you a month on its hybrid, and does not threaten to void your warranty. We also experienced an exploding tire and have never achieved the advertised gas mileage.

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  About as good as it gets - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By jimmyn - June 3 - 10:26 pm

  We traded in our 2003 Element for something with better mileage and a better ride. Lucky we got it right before the last round of gas price hikes. I like sitting in traffic with the engine off, it is nice to know that we are not wasting any fuel then. I am happy overall, of course I wish there was more power, but I know the trade off would be worse mileage. I can live with it. It is comfortable for 4 adults, and everyone who has riden in it has remarked how nice it is and how "cool" it looks inside. Over the past couple of fill ups we have gotten 44.6 and 49.5 MPG with about 50/50 city/ highway driving. Much better than the 20-22 we got out of the Element. Happy with it so far.

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  Great Car!! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Hugh - June 3 - 3:33 pm

  Within months of purchase my wife and I drove to Western Montana (over the continental divide) and back to Minnesota. We got 53 MPG at a time when gas was about $4.00 a gallon. Extraordinary! Theres plenty of room inside, but I do not like the touch screen -- you cant see it in bright sunlight. Im glad they got rid of it (for the most part) in the new ones. I wouldnt trade this car for any other on the road. Its the best car I have ever owned. I disagree with those who find it slow off the mark. It has plenty of get up and go.

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  Beating MPG Estimates - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By zkeith2 - June 2 - 10:35 pm

  Im averaging 51-52mpg on every tank, and this is on a relatively new Prius. Ive heard that it increases after the hybrid system has several thousand miles to break in. Id highly recommend a 10 minute YouTube video on how to maximize Prius mileage, instead of reading hours worth of blogs. Its called Prius 2010 MAX MPG Secrets by Yavor54. For highway drivers, there is a huge drop in MPG as your average speed goes from 55mpg to 70mph. If not in a huge rush, youll get much better MPG slowing down a bit. Check EZ-Pass regulations, or state benefits of having a "Green" car. You may get access to HOV lanes even when driving alone, or get discounted bridge tolls during off-peak times.

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  Fun Ride! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By BRIAN HAVEN - June 2 - 2:48 pm

  This is your grand-mas car but, it is gentle on the wallet and awesome on the street. Also own a 2015 bought new. This was bought with 189k miles and 9 years of smoking. The mileage has not affected the performance and fun to drive feel the 2008 exudes. Still a great ride! The smoker is a whole other issue. Detailed and scrubbed down thrice, bottles of Febreze, bag of charcoal, pans of vinegar and the stench is only just subdued not removed.

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  Wonderful 2001 Toyota Prius - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By Breathe-easier - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Why more people are not buying these is beyond me. A wonderful, reliable car. Nice to pass by the gas pumps and laugh.

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  Love this car! - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By barryaz1 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Prius because Im an environmentalist. I drive it because it really is a very enjoyable little car to drive in the city. Ive always had Hondas and I appreciate the tight, precise handling. The Prius is even a little better than our Honda Accord in that regard -- driving is almost effortless. The steering is very smooth. The ride is quiet. The drivers seat is positioned well and is quite comfortable. And of course, it helps when you can feel a little bit of pride in what you drive. If you support American energy independence and clean air, you should be in one of these.

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  Im Lovin It - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Ashley - May 30 - 6:53 am

  This car is a dream, it handles so well. At first I was afraid that it wouldnt have the acceleration that Ive been used to but all I have to do is switch it into power mode and I zip along. The only downfall to this car is its blindspots.