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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  Fuel-efficient fun - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By KevB - April 18 - 10:00 am

  High tech features make this fuel-efficient vehicle a bit quirkie, but its a gas to drive. Its all Toyota, so quality is built in.

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  Works for me - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By flyguy - April 16 - 6:40 pm

  Great mileage without sacrificing ride, handling or sound proofing. 70 mph over the mountains on the freeway with no straining or screaming engine. Solid build quality with no rattles or squeaks. Hybrid system does its thing very unobtrusively - At 70 mph downhill on the freeway you glance at the display and see the gas engine is off, instantaneous mpg meter showing 100+ mpg. Base model well equipped. Didnt need the extra bells and whistles and you still get cruise control, alloy wheels (under the plastic covers), cd, aux audio input and more. Carries a lot of stuff with hatchback flexibility.

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  380 miles on 1st tank (~9.5 gal) - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Eric - April 16 - 6:50 am

  I got 43 mpg on my first tank - I use the car to commute 8+ miles (each way) to work - 3/4 of the daily trip is local, and ~4 miles are highway. The handling is great - the weight of the car is nicely distributed and you can really tell the difference when making tight turns. The start from traffic light is much faster because of the electric motor assist. Overall its much more responsive than a normal gas engine car, and I can really tell the difference when I switch to drive my wifes regular car.

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  Saves money without sacrifice - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Glenn S - April 13 - 10:46 pm

  After doing extensive research we dedided to get the 2005 Prius. Now everyone we take for a drive wants one! It is fantastic! We get a minimum of 40MPG with A/C running all the time. Very comfortable, smooth ride, quiet and spacious. Everyone is very impressed with it.

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  I love my Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Kent Pollock - April 8 - 5:46 am

  I bought a 2006 Prius in December 05 and have put 12,000 fun and trouble- free miles on it. I got the "loaded" version with all the options including the navigation system and so far everything has worked flawlessly. Fuel mileage has been excellent although the 61 mpg in city driving requires a lot of gas pedal finess. A recent trip from Phoenix to Denver netted 56.8 mpg. My only complaint is that the mapping system is outdated, probably by about 2 to 3 years. Toyota should offer free or inexpensive updates every year. I would buy another Prius in a heartbeat although Im hoping Im still driving this one 5 years from now.

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  The perfect car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Sam - April 6 - 3:33 am

  When gas started top go up in price earlier this year, I decided to get an economy car. After test driving a Camry, Matrix and a Prius, I decided on the Prius and never looked back. Gas mileage averages 53.1 MPG, mixed city driving along with an 80 mile round trip commute evenly divided 60MPH and 45MPH speed limits. Excelent handling, very comfortable and now that I have learned to use them, the GPS Navigation and cellular Bluetooth are indespensable and would not like to learn to have to do without them. After a weeks of driving, I have to fill my gas tank, and it usually takes less than 9 gallons. Doesnt get any better than that.

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  Wow - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Cycle11111 - April 5 - 10:26 pm

  This is my first Toyota and all I can say is this car exceeds my expectations. I regularly beat the EPA mileage and if you also want it to move fast it does just great. Tons of room and very comfortable

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  2001 prius - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By donna - April 5 - 5:00 pm

  I love my baby prius. It is fun to drive, fun to play with the computer screen, and it is fun to pass up the gas stations. It had some major problems when I first got it, but the dealership was very good at fixing the issues. My next car will be a prius.

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  A Stunning Car - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Prius Fan - April 2 - 10:20 am

  It took me a while to get up the courage to buy a hybrid, since I had initially not been a believer. I now wish I had done it sooner. The Prius has exceeded all of my expectations and is a joy to drive. My buying experience was also pleasant. The fit and finish on the car are outstanding. The ride is very comfortable and exceedingly quiet. If cars had always had Prius-like technology, I truly believe that we would find todays standard cars to be quite primitive. Also, if more cars had this technology, the USA wouldnt be dependent on foreign oil sources. This car is practical and just makes good common sense. I think it could fill the needs of 85% of the buying public.

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  The Best Hybrid Yet! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Danny - March 31 - 2:30 am

  When Honda first introduced the first Hybrid vehicle on the market, it didnt do such of a large impact, simply because fuel economy was not such a concern several years ago but now since the high prices of gasoline has reflected off my new 07 Prius I seem to realize I have not only purchased a gas saving car, but I bought the best hybrid yet! With its remarkable value; lower prices, more to choose from, and better looks, it totally beat any hybrid in its price- range! I totally enjoy every piece of metal used on my car, and I seemed to realize, it was one of the greatest investments in my life that I have conducted...Because of what I have done, I have