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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  Beware old Hybrid Battery - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By ihtsjnellay - April 5 - 1:20 pm

  I bought this car used at a dealership and they checked everything else EXCEPT for the hybrid battery. Being a hybrid, and having 2 batteries could be a nightmare waiting to happen. I used it for 2 days and the 2nd day, on the way home from work on the freeway my car had stopped accelerating. The main battery light came up and I had to stop on the side of the road to start it up again. This happened 3 times, and I only live 10 mins away from my work. The cost to replace an old hybrid battery is 3000 for parts and 2000 for labor. BEWARE. Only the new Prius are reliable considering this is the earliest of models.

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  Prius ROCKS - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Deb WOlfe - April 5 - 10:00 am

  This car was a rental for four days for me and I at first was a bit intimidated but soon realized it was the coolest thing I have ever driven. The economy of it makes it the most alluring but you add comfort and convenience of the interior and it wins hands down for us! When shown to family they loved it as much and I possibly have 2 people actually wanting to buy it for their next vehicle.

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  Happy Owner - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By BillTrail - April 3 - 2:43 am

  Compared to my new 06 Honda Civic Hybrid my new 08 Pkg 2 Prius is wonderful. I dumped the 06 HCH after just 5 months Ive had this Toyota now 6 months and 19,000 miles. Handles like a real car while the Civic didnt. The Prius is a great all-around solid and upright car. Fuzzy beige cloth gets nasty if you drive a lot like me. Overall, kudos to Toyota. I get 43 mpg at 80 mph freeway speeds and 59 to 61mpg running it at 55 mph on state highways with 48 mpg overall avg so far.

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  Worth the Money-Great Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By R ichard Knudsen - April 2 - 8:16 am

  I know I was reading about others reporting that they dont get the gas mileage on the sticker, but I can not think back to any car I ever had that matched the sticker milage per gallon. I am averaging about 50 mpg and that is mostly highway. I have taken a few long drives on back roads and have averaged about 55 mpg. If anyone wants to split hairs please do. But, I am very happy with that mileage. I also noticed if you are a "lead foot" forget about getting high mileage but from what I hear you can still expect 45 mpg. By the way the space in my prius is great and I had 4 people on a long trip and no problems. All I can say is look at the gas prices and decide if it is time yet?

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  Completey satisfied - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Maine-iacs - April 2 - 6:50 am

  We have tracked mileage for every tank of gas, averaging 53 mpg all around during summer months and 44mpg during winters. We do a 44mile commute each workday at 55-60mph. Two riders with total weight of 290lbs. We see no signficant drop in mileage when on the interstate at 70-75 mph. We plan to purchase another

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  Interesting Auto - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By bh - March 29 - 5:06 pm

  Purchased one weeks ago, option pkg 5, 2 mi on odo when bought. Live in MA - mileage running between 42-45 mixed backroad/highway (highway @ avg of 68mph). Rear camera helps, but limited at night in low light, and will still need mirrors. Rear seating comfort ok for short trips (2 hours) - front seats more comfortable, but also concerned re: comfort on long trips - dont think they will be good. Interior build seems tight, very quiet ride. Tracks well on roads at both about town, and highway. Easy to park. JBL sound system has nice sound. Keyless system is a nice feature. Came from a Maxima - miss the pickup and comfort features, but love the MPGs.

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  Its More Than A Gas Saver - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By cleanair - March 29 - 1:23 am

  I love this car! This car is fun to drive, has incredible room inside for hauling stuff, gets an average of 50 mpg for my travels, has a great sound system and is comfortable on long trips. You "learn" how to use the gas pedal in a different sort of way that enables you to control the mileage you get. My only complaint would be the upholstery. I got the black (best looking) with tan interior. The upholstery gets dirty very easily and doesnt clean up well. I also chose Prius because I trust Toyota.

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  Hurrah for Gen 4 - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Doug - March 28 - 11:42 pm

  The fourth generation of the Prius is a winner! First week I had the car we drove from OC to Yosemite to the Northern California coast experiencing city, mountain, and open road environments. Handled "The Grapevine" with ease, capturing lots of energy on the downhill side. Acceleration was surprisingly good, and the ride was much smoother than previous generations due to the suspension upgrade and good support in my cloth seats. Navigation was accurate with excellent alternatives provided when I decided to explore some other roads. AC kept us very comfortable in 100+ degree weather. 1066 miles on 18.3 gallons of gasoline!

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  Prius Owner Loves the car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Chris - March 28 - 5:06 pm

  After 6 months of ownership I have figured out how to drive the car and I am averaging 48 MPG in the City. Much better than the 12 I was getting with my double cab tundra truck. I dont miss the truck as much as I thought I would. I hauled 38 bags of mulch home from the store with the back seats down. Everyone loves to ride in it and it is very dependable. I highly recommend the car.

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  Smartest Car Ever Made! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By gary41 - March 28 - 10:26 am

  After 3 years of waiting, finally picked up my Prius a couple of days ago! Gave my 2006 BMW 3-Series to my wife - the Prius is more entertaining to drive. Getting mileage as expected - low to mid 40s, but will go up once car is broken in. Love almost everything about it - only thing I would change is the seats and driving position. Tons of room and cubbies.