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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  Great commuter car - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Maine driver - March 25 - 1:30 am

  I purchased my Prius new during the warm weather in Maine. Gas mileage is great in temps above 50 degrees, especially on the winding hilly back roads of Maine (50 mpg). During short trips in winter it drops to 30 mpg. Original tires are quiet and help gas mileage but lasted 21K. I chose to go with a different but harder tire-which should last longer but has SIGNIFICANTLY decreased gas mileage to 30-45 mpg. Highway driving averages 42-43 mpg but this auto is very light weight and stability is compromised when driving in windy conditions or when speed reaches above 80mph. The cost to maintain this auto is above average.

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  The future of all cars - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By NMpriusman - March 22 - 10:00 am

  The Prius has done nothing, but lived up to every expectation I had, and even surpassed them. It is a fine machine, worth the small extra cost, and its a wonder that more people dont drive them. I achieve 55 mpg in the city, and 43 on the highway. The trunk is a little small, but can carry all of the recycleables. All my friends think its an awesome car, so do I. The CVT transmission is seamless, and the interior is beatiful. I will only buy hybrids from now on until, there are no- gas cars. Absolutely a dream.

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  Fuel Economy Disappointing - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Kay - March 19 - 3:00 pm

  Let me state right off that I really love this car. It is easy to drive and performs well. I am somewhat disappointed in the city driving fuel economy. I expected at least 60 MPG driving in the city and havent reached nearly that economy. In NH we have hilly terrain and Im lucky to get 48 MPG driving around town. Highway MPG seem to be around the 55 MPG promised. I love the display that tells you what economy youre getting. It helps you realize fast starts are not the answer and improves your driving habits. Maybe Ill get there yet!

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  Another positive review - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By George Roland - March 19 - 12:36 pm

  Ive been very happy with my 02 Prius. Good resale value! Its now 7 years old and running superbly. My MPG has been an average of 38 in the winter and 42 in the summer. This car really has to be serviced at the dealer. I went to Jiffy Lube for a radiator flush, and though they insisted they used the right fluid, they didnt and my car broke down. I had to replace the coolant reservoir ($600). My only other repair still needs to be done: the navigation system stopped working due to an electrical failure. All the other features of the display work (audio, trip computer, avg MPG, etc) The nav can be repaired for $600 refurbished or $4000 new but I think I will just buy a tomtom.

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  Fantastic car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Milt. Sanpperman - March 18 - 6:40 am

  I have and my wife has driven Toyota Prius over 500 miles so far and we BOTH love it. In town it is very quiet and GREAT on gas. On the open road with cruise it gets 56 mpg. Inside and out is nicely designed. Can hold five persons real comfortably. Why there are not more Hybrids on the road we do not understand.

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  Couldnt be more satisfied - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Frugal - March 16 - 5:06 pm

  Incredibly, the Prius was a replacement for a Mitsubishi Evo 8 that I had grown tired of. I have now owned the Prius for almost three years and I couldnt be more satisfied with it.

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  I love it - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Bob Hardy - March 16 - 3:46 pm

  I traded in a Town Car to purchase the Prius, and havent missed it at all. With a total of 26650 miles I have had no problems. Averaging slightly over 45 MPG for the entire 26M miles. It has a very functional design with lots of room for 6 footers. I have taken a couple of trips of around 1300 miles each. The car was comfortable during the trip and I had no problem maintaining inter-state speeds even in the mountains while the car was fully loaded. I would recommend this car to anyone who is looking for good, reliable and economical transportation. This is the first time I have recommended a car, and I wouldnt do it if I wasnt sold on it.

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  My 1st. Prius - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By nik34 - March 16 - 3:26 pm

  I have the car one week and it runs great; adequete acceleration and very good fuel economy. With prices now at $3.25 and going up it is comforting to have a car that gets 40+ miles a gallon.

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  Buy This Car!!! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Lou - March 15 - 3:23 pm

  I went from a Land Rover Discovery to a 2007 Prius. I never saw myself in a hybrid. The Prius is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is very comfortable and with 50 mpg average you cant beat the savings at the pump. The technology in this car is amazing. If you can get the navigation and rear view camera buy it, it is well worth it. The bluetooth enables you to recieve and make calls from your steering wheel. The keyless entry and ignition puts this car over the top.

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  Life is funny... Great car, great mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Stephen Boyd - March 12 - 9:26 pm

  When I was young, it was all about trying to break the land speed record. Now that Im 40ish, its all about squeezing the most out of a gallon of gas. This car has a lot more gitty-up than youd expect. In terms of MPG, which is why we buy these cars, my overall is averaging about 46 MPG, BUT, I understand that this figure is supposed to go up as the car is broken in. I have noticed that my last 3 tanks have resulted in higher MPG with each new fill up. In terms of the extras, well, its unbelievable. Oh, and I just applied for the California sticker that will allow me to drive in the carpool lane without a passenger.