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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  So far very pleased - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By sporin71 - August 18 - 3:35 pm

  We got our Blue Prius III almost a month ago and are very pleased so far. Living in Vermont, we had the car delivered with snow tires on it and between those, and the ever-cold tems, we are averaging just 40mpg so far. But that is to be expected under the conditions. I expect around 50 when temps go up and the LLR tires go back on. With the snow tires, the car has been very good on the snow covered roads and I highly suggest that anyone dealing with regular snow falls run dedicated snow tires on this car. Im a big guy, 6 tall and 300+ and this car fits very well. Only negative so far is a plethora of squeaks and groans from the hard plastic dash... worse in cold weather.

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  Not a good value by any means - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Japanese? eh... - July 19 - 3:26 am

  I bought this car for a commuter expecting stellar fuel economy, and that is not what I saw. Although 32 is good on the highway but not what I expected for $20k+. Many cars would have suited me better. Dont get hyped over gas mileage because it wont make you the money back. My pontiac grand prix got 31 mpg for 40% of the cost. My only other issue is my a/c unit is not very reliable.

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  Why not get a TDI? - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Jason123 - March 16 - 2:00 am

  I was not been impressed with the Prius. It actually pales in comparison to the Volkdwagen Jetta TDI. The Prius has no power and its MPG is overrated. It gets on the highway about 43 mpg. I traded my Prius for the diesel Volkswagen Jetta and have been amazed by the TDIs power and handling. It also gave me 43 mpg. Another plus was the TDI had no waiting list and was under $20,000. Toyota dealers have taken advantage of the purchaser and mark the car up. My Prius was marked up $1000 over the MSRP. I got my TDI for delaer invoice. Same MPG but the TDI has better handling and power.

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  not recommended - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Philo - March 6 - 10:00 am

  Numerous problems: gas tank needed replacement, tires last short time, transmission died.

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  Close but not cigar - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By cheapdeep - February 15 - 2:53 pm

  I really wanted to like the Prius but ended up trading it in about a month after buying it. It drives like a golf cart but Im ok with that. What really bothered me were some missing features and the ergonomics. This is a bit of an exaggeration but it felt like I had to press 3 buttons to change the radio. While the touch screen is cool and futurisic, nothing beats a button for functionality. Nothing on this car was intuitive. I constantly felt like I was doing a science experiment. And the transition between the electic motor and gas was not smooth.

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  most displeased - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By dlo - January 16 - 8:00 am

  Highly dangerous car in snow and ice and rain. If there is the slightest skid the car brakes lock and you cant steer it so you just hope there is no oncoming traffic till it comes to a stop. CAr has done 360 and gone into soft shoulders in minimal snow conditions. Now it accelerates whenever i go over the smallest hole or skid. I believe it should be incl in recall as sudden acceleration is more frequent. I am most displeased with the vehicle. At dealership was told if is excellent car for good weather conditions and that I should have a backup vehicle for NY winters. It never got the sticker mileage and only gets 42mpg. It takes inordinate time for the heater to turn on.

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  Practical but Pedestrian - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By dblanchette - December 21 - 2:00 am

  A bit unstable, but low drag and a fairly quiet ride. Even minor acceleration elicits a strained whine from the engine. Real world driving wont get claimed mpg (I get 40-45). Fine interior overall. The seat comfort is fair, front visibility excellent, rear visibility poor with severe blind spots. The "dashboard" strip beneath the windshield is great (reflects on windshield though). The center-mounted display screen is in theory a good idea, but boring and annoying as configured. The interior room is very good, and trunk space is fair. The finish of the car isnt bad for a car in this price range. It is a practical car, but not very fun to drive.

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  Prius Safety concerns - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Rog LaShomb - December 9 - 2:53 pm

  Mileage projections are to high. About 44 is accurate. Storage in back is poor Nice little bins under carpet but they are of no value. Very hard to see out of when changing lanes. Can you this vehicle being accident prone. Hard to see out from sides also. Very poor design for safety factors. Bad seat roomy comfortable. Smart key system makes it very easy to leave keys in car.

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  Does everyone here only drive downhill? - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Mitch - August 2 - 3:03 pm

  Not sure how anyone here is getting these crazy gas mileage numbers. I havent even hit 40 MPG. I have even given up my lead foot and try to keep it at or below 70 on the freeway which is about 15-20 mph less than Im used to driving. The ride is adequate for a small car, but that rear window split design is not getting easier to accept even with time. I just dont see how I can possibly increase the mileage to justify the cost of a car like this. At least in my case, I should have bought a cheap car like a Corolla or Civic getting 32 mpg or just go back to my much better performing and useful Pathfinder and just suck it up... literally. Maybe Ill sell both and buy the Lexus GS450h!!!

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  Not bad but not all they say - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Kate - July 14 - 6:30 am

  Mine is simple/no extras. Bad news 1st Seats noticeably, miserably uncomfortable, says everyone. Interior flimsy plastic. Cup holder snapped off so easily thought maybe it was a bizarre break-out safety feature. A+ for interior space. Hatchback holds two medium dogs; seats fold, flip, split to meet every packing challenge: tree nursery, Home Depot, Ikea, kids with bikes and whatnot. Pickup/speed are very good. Handles in snow with regular tires much better than popular Swedish cars Ive owned with snow tires. Never had mechanical or any problems. Mileage okay but never, ever anything like high 50s as stated. High forties in summer with just a driver, no cargo. Otherwise averages mid 30s.