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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  9 months in a 2004 Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By GBrach - December 18 - 10:00 am

  The car is AWESOME! Super quiet ride,no shift points. Smooth as silk.Car is extremely RESPONSIVE to the accelerator. Takes a back seat to no one. Mileage close to 50MPG. No wind noise.Excellent trunk at bumper level. Gear selection a breeze.Build quality is something to behold! This car is a MUST BUY! Toyota engineers know what they are doing and this car proves it.

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  Prius 2006 - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Hue - December 15 - 12:36 am

  I thought for months about purchasing this car. Prior to finalizing the deal I experienced "buyers remorse"; however, since purchasing it, I have not regretted for a minute acquiring this fun little car. The gas and commuting time I have saved have been an added bonus.

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  Strongly recommend everyone to buy it! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Kyndall - December 13 - 6:23 am

  Ive had my Prius for 4 months now and I love it! I cant think of a better investment right now. I bought package #2 which costs around $22,000. I usually average 47 mpg. I rarely have to fill up at the gas station! Ive experienced about the same mpg in the city and highway. I love the hatchback/folding rear seats feature! I also love the way the Prius sits higher than the average car. My parents have no trouble getting in and out of the car. I love the smart key feature, although Ive gotten so used to not carrying my keys that I forget to lock my car sometimes!

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  Like This Car - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By C&C - December 10 - 10:33 am

  My husband bought this car for commuting to his job -100 miles one way. He gets approximately 41 mpg. I drive a Honda Odyssey around town, but I enjoy getting my turn with the Prius occasionally. The car is very roomy and the navigation has been very easy to figure out. It seems to have plenty of pick-up when needed. I find driving the Prius to be a peaceful experience, much more relaxing than the internal combustion engine.

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  Prius 2005 - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By amethystmoon - December 9 - 11:53 pm

  This is the most well designed vehicle I have ever owned and I have owned many. I have owned vehicles from the top of the line by different manufacturers. The second winter the mileage dropped by over 20%, but now is up to about 48mpg. It would be even better if it were closer to 60mpg as Toyota/EPA claim. Not only is the mileage great, but the 2K tax credit was good as is the current law in VA which allows hybrids to drive in the HOV lanes during rush hour. Awesome automobile - people who thought it was ugly 2 years ago are now wishing they owned one!!

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  05 Prius 1 Yr review - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Prius55 - December 8 - 5:16 am

  Fun to drive and no problems after 1 year of driving. Also a great conversation starter. Driven on a wide mix of daily commutes, short trips, and several out of state 800+ mile trips. We are ready to buy a second one to replace our gas guzzling, pollution producing pickup truck. Its fun to be green.

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  Toyota Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Melissa - December 5 - 9:16 pm

  Drives very smoothly. While this car isnt a speed demon, it accelerates respectably and is fun to drive (you get to laugh at the SUV drivers shelling out their money for gas). Nice hatchback design - the trunk is surprisingly roomy. The interior design is also very sleek and modern-looking. The actual mileage I get isnt quite as good as the displayed mileage, but the Prius is far more efficient than nearly every other car. Overall, I have been very happy with my Prius.

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  My Favorite Car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Alan McIlwain - December 5 - 8:06 am

  This car is more fun to drive than anything Ive had before. It has pickup and acceleration when you ask for it or it can cruise along at 50+ MPG. It is comfortable and easy to drive, once you figure out how to start it! The back will carry a card table lying flat. Ive dropped the back seats for lumber or skis and even a bulky computer desk. Ive loaded bags of earth and dogfood in. Its a great family car! On the down side, the beige interior is filthy already - not good for dogs and kids. Highway noise is higher than Id have expected, but city noise is low.

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  I wouldnt want any other vehicle. - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Maureen Riester - December 4 - 6:43 am

  Its a small car, so its easy to park/handle; yet remarkably roomy on the inside. My 62" friends dont complain about riding in the back. When I moved into a new apartment, even my queen size bed frame fit in my car! I have absolutely no complaints.

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  Prius, A Real Winner - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Ron M - December 3 - 8:43 am

  This car has everything. Its technology at it best. The Prius feels larger than it is. The interior is spacious, Storage and cargo space is quite large. Batteries are underneath the car rather than in the cargo area. The Prius accelerates suprisingly fast. It handles and feels like a mid-size car. The $3100.00 Federal tax creit for the first 60,000 units sold in 2006 is a real bonus. Tax credits are gradually reduced 50%, then 25%. Toyota estimates that 15,000 will be sold each month through 2006. I cannot say enough good things about this automobile. Consumer Reports rates this car as a hybrid best and the repair records show that the car has been nearly flawless for the last 2 years.