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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  60,000 miles and going strong - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Mike S. - November 1 - 1:20 pm

  The car is a technological marvel in a very practical package. Bought new, its been very reliable for 60,000 miles. Its no sports car, but is faster than it seems because the CVT is so smooth that your speed builds without your noticing it. Lifetime avg. 49.9 mpg driving smoothly, 53 mpg at steady 65, with or without the AC running. Not quite so comfortable or quiet as our old Camry, but still very good. Build quality is very impressive. No problems to date. Definitely the best car Ive ever owned. Love the hatchback layout. Theres lots of room, but the rear seat is too narrow for three across unless one is a child.

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  Dereks Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Derek Hughes - October 31 - 7:10 pm

  Disappointed with the Dummy spare wheel. Was stranded when car broke down on highway late at night just outside San Jose

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  Very Satisfied - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Happy buyer - October 30 - 6:13 pm

  We are very happy with our decision to buy a Prius. It was an expensive jump up in cost for our limited budget, but it will be worth it. They have a great resale value and that helps a lot. The electric steering is reassuringly precise and solid; I love it that way. The car is tight and has a very solid feeling. Lots of room + lots of cargo potential. The rear seats are a breeze to flip down, even from the back end of the car. Its built on the Camry chassis!

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  Hybrids are the BEST! - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By awilley - October 30 - 10:00 am

  The Toyota Prius is an amazing vehicle! The Energy & Consumption displays definitely make me feel more connected to my vehicles performance. I find myself doing everything I can to increase my average MPG. My average is about 500 miles per TANK (and with a compact-size tank, it doesnt cost much to re-fuel). Though its more expensive than other cars on the market, I feel this is the best investment Ive ever made! Its a wonderful car and I think everyone should own a hybrid!! Heres to cleaner air and less dependence on fossil fuels...

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  Nice car - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Dave Kafaro - October 29 - 6:03 pm

  The front seats of this car are comfortable but they lack the space to move back. The rear seats are very uncomfortable unless you add 5,000 for leather seats and other unwanted options. Mileage was a consistent 44 mpg and on the freeway the engine was straining. The LCD was unneeded and only my kid could figure it out, but overall it is an OK car.

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  Pacesetter - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By JRR - October 28 - 3:53 pm

  I became a believer after I drove my nieces Prius! This one is a keeper - it sets the gold standard in technology, economy and technology, and challenges other carmakers to compete! It offered more than what I expected. I am averaging 51 MPG in suburban driving. The car engages you constantly, and actually encourages prudent driving. I have scored one convert so far - my houseguest last night! Get the Touring Model - the heftier wheels, suspension, stability control and back-up camera are well worth the extra grand.

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  2006 Prius Review - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Sharon Tingley - October 23 - 6:36 pm

  We have really enjoyed our Prius in the year we have owned it. It has excellent pick-up and over-all performance. Gas mileage has been consistent with Consumers Report, but not windshield. Our highest mileage has been 46.7. Average overall has been about 44.2. It is very roomy inside.

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  Areas of concern - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By bethvol1 - October 22 - 10:00 am

  The sun visors do not come down low enough to shield the early rising sun. I am still blinded after dropping the sun visors down. They should be made a little larger. Also, the side mirrors do not give me adequate vision of drivers just behind my right rear. Otherwise, I have really enjoyed driving this vehicle.

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  A pleasant surprise! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By mictra03 - October 20 - 4:30 pm

  If someone told me before I bought this car that it would be fun to drive, I would have laughed. They would have been right. This car is peppy, has a lot of character and is a champion on fuel consumption. Ive ranged anywhere from 39 MPG to 58 MPG with this car. Its got plenty of cargo room and the use of a backup camera has been priceless.

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  More Options Needed/Design Comment - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By 4 Dr STD Hatchback - October 19 - 11:43 pm

  This is an excellent car for saving energy. I do not care for the rear window view obstructions... I do find them distracting. Never achieved the 60mpg as claimed. I have averaged barely 45mpg. It would be nice to have an option of a moonroof. Other than that, an excellent purchase.