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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  Cool Car - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Larry - May 29 - 9:23 pm

  This car is cool because: 1) the gas mileage is great, 2) the driving experience tells you that the car uses newer and better technology (for example driving away without the gas engine running and having the gas engine shut down at red lights), 3) the display lets you know how the advanced systems are powering the car and how much kinetic energy has been captured and stored in the battery to power the car later, 4) even with all the gas saving features the car is large enough to be practical for a small family.

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  simply the best - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By car tester - May 25 - 2:00 am

  amazing; smooth, powerful, esp going up hill; build quality superior,perfect seats great vision even in back.Navigation system is futuristic.Info screenshows hybrid working, and exact mpg& drive reminds me of bmw3 series, not quite as sharp, but close!

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  Great Car - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Jim - May 22 - 2:10 am

  I wanted a hatchback with great mileage--hence the Prius. I was prepared to put up with an expensive "economy" car, but have been pleasantly surprised. The car is quiet and roomy (more rear leg room than my wifes Volvo S60). Visibility is excellent except of a couple of blind spots in the rear. Interior and exterior finishes are excellent. It came with a lot of bells and whistles. I dont find the backup camera particularly useful since it has such a wide angle lens that you cannot use it to accurately judge distances. I really dont have problems with rear view vision in this car. Power, while not great, is adequate. Great handling in the snow. Gas mileage only 40 mp

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  A fun ride! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Steve - May 20 - 5:26 am

  My wife and I purchased this vehicle in the Spring of this year and it is the best vehicle purchase we have ever made. The car gets fantastic gas mileage, fits 4 easily (5 in a pinch), and really has a devoted fan club following. I am 6 3" tall and I fit in the front and back seats without any problems. I thought we might find the car lacking in power, but even in that area I was pleasantly surprised. All in all this car is a wonderfully driving and exceptionally good value given how well it holds its resale value and the great gas mileage. I find myself trying to squeeze every MPG I can out of the tank. Truthfully you will love this car and will wonder why you waited so long to get one!

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  Wonderful Car - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By Susan - May 19 - 3:30 am

  The 2002 Prius is fabulous. I have owned it for 3 1/2 years with no problems. The car gives terrific gas mileage, steady, comfortable performance and excellent reliability.

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  One of first ones bought. - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By Ken Jacobi - May 18 - 2:00 am

  The car has done great and we average 46 to 48 mpg overall mileage. The only problem we have had is with tires. They have not held up well at all however Toyoto has replaced them twice at no charge trying to find the problem.

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  Why buy another car? - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Wayne Falda - May 18 - 2:00 am

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  Toyota Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By NancyAnderson - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Prius in December, 2003. It is pure joy. Have put on over 18,000 miles in the past 5 weeks. We like everything about it except a slight sway when the wind is blowing. Love the abundance of storage compartments, including hidden ones. The car performs equally well on long upgrades as on level roads. The Navigation System is exciting. There is a learning curve, though. The keyless entry and start is wonderful. We also like the control buttons on the steering wheel. Also love the placement of the odometer, speedometer, etc. You do not have to take your eyes off the road to check the readouts.

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  2004 Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Michael Starrine - May 18 - 2:00 am

  I replaced a 2002 Infinity QX4 with the new Prius and figure that it saves me about $70- a week in fuwl costs. On top of that its really fun to drive. Has the #9 package and if I had any concern it would simply getting used to the vehicle being so light.I opted for the "Tideland Pearl" and would have preferred a darker interior. I put dark grey sheepskin seatcovers on it.

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  A GREAT Car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Happydinks - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Were loyal Toyota buyers - and were looking to replace a Tacoma. Saw this car, with the features and for the price and bought it after a 10 minute test drive. It is a great value for the money! Drives great - got the full blown package - so the safty factor of making calls through the car is wonderful. Since we like leather interior - were having the leather kit Toyota has come out with installed. Cargo area is as much as our RX300 - with double the gas mileage! This is an awesome car! Bought it the week before it was named Car of the Year - so only waited 8 weeks for it! Like the tax break too!