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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  Phenomenal Gas Mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By M. Evans - September 21 - 8:13 am

  Gas mileage is not nearly what is displayed on the sticker... BUT 48 mpg in the city is not bad. Car is fun to drive and everyone asks about the vehicle and performance.

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  Jacks update - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Jack Harris - September 18 - 10:00 am

  Just returned from a 4200 mile trip to TX and rtn to CA. Traveled Rte I-40, altitude 7334 plus, on problems. averaged 45 MPG for the trip driving 70 - 75 MPH.

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  Changing driving habits - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By John Schneider - September 5 - 1:50 am

  The most rmearkable thing about the Prius is the changes it creates in my dirving habits. With the computer read out giving mpg and speed information, I am much more aware of driving at maximum efficiency, rather than focusing on getting someplace in a period of time. I arrive much more relaxed and satsfied that I have minimized my fuel consumption.

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  2008 Prius, package 4 - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By hilary Stellmach - August 24 - 10:26 pm

  Bought our car one month ago. Quiet, responsive, and fun to drive. First gas fill 41.2 mpg, second fill 43.7 mpg (both hand calculated). Friends are impressed with the room inside this car. When someone reports bad acceleration with their Prius, I wonder what they expect. I can pull into heavy traffic on the freeway, and have no trouble accelerating. Ive hauled dirt in the back (plastic tub) and concrete blocks. It is a good all around vehicle. Wish I could put a trailer hitch on the back. Our second Toyota, probably not our last. (still have my GMC diesel pickup) for pulling the boat and camper. Would not be afraid to travel cross country in this car. One fine car.

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  Poor Gas Milage - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Russ Lefevre - August 16 - 2:46 pm

  I purchased a high end Prius with the all the features in 6/08. Started out getting 46 mpg. to 44mpg.Then 3 month later it went down to 30mpg to 34mpg. tops. Brought back to dealer they checked it out & said they could find anything wrong. My Nav unit reads Im getting around 36 mpg. But when you do the math after a fill up its getting 30 to 32 mpg.

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  Worlds worst seats!! - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By APH - August 15 - 8:46 am

  I must say that overall Im quite happy with my Prius-look, performance, gas mileage-but what the heck was Toyota thinking with those seats?! I eagerly took my brand new Prius on a 200 mile r/t roadtrip (one I do every month) to upstate NY. About 1/2 hr into my ride my back started hurting and my tailbone began throbbing. By the time I got back home that evening, I was in serious agony! I cant believe Toyota put so much attention into the technology-bluetooth, reverse cameras, smart key, the entire hybrid system-and the seats were just a mere afterthought! No lumbar support? Really???? Now Im in the market for some seats that dont feel like rocks so I can tolerate my 80 mile r/t commute!

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  Why I hate my Prius - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By yorfutrxhsbnd - August 12 - 3:40 pm

  I am averaging about 29 mpg in city driving. Admittedly my trips tend to be quite short, but I am by no means driving with a heavy foot. I often coast for blocks when I anticipate a light changing ahead, accelerate slowly, but it seems to make little difference. The car has been tested 3 times so far and the dealerships say it is fine. Since the only reason for leasing this car as opposed to less expensive vehicles was for mileage, I am very disappointed. While the car is quite comfortable and the interior functional, the stereo is of very poor quality. And, contrary to an assertion made, adding a subwoofer improves, but does definitely NOT transform the sound.

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  Not for TALL PEOPLE - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By swampfox - August 5 - 9:23 am

  The Prius is an excellent car, however, before you buy it you should test-sit in it. The slanted roof makes it almost impossible for anyone over 510" to comfortable see out of the windshield. Depending on your body build, you must test-sit in this vehicle to make sure you can confortably and safely drive this car. If you can, GREAT!!! Because it is a GREAT CAR, but ONLY if you fit in it.

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  Purview of the Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By bowhunter - July 28 - 6:03 am

  I was intrigued by the technology of the Prius and other Hybrid vehicles. After owning other Toyota vehicles and the dependability I have had, it was a given that I wanted the Toyota brand of a Hybrid. I am not sorry that I purchased this vehicle. The performance, agility, and dependability of this vehicle assures me that I made the right decision in sticking with Toyota. Even with mileage not at EPA predicitons, I cannot complain at what I average. Comfort is great and the ride feels like what the Camry delivers.

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  A Good Car - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By bh_okedoke - July 25 - 4:40 am

  Bought a Prius, pkg 5, about a month ago. Have 1500 miles, averaging about 43 MPG mixed commuter driving of approx 45 miles a day, half back roads, half highway. Live in New England, so I’m hoping the colder temps is the reason for the lower MPG. Kind of bounces about in heavy wind. Pickup will get you up to highway speed, but it’s no barn burner. Engine very loud under very hard acceleration. Seats are so so on comfort, fronts not bad, but backs need longer bottom cushion. Many blind spots, but can overcome with proper mirror placement. Rear view camera was a great idea.