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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  Visibility - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Mark Shaffer - April 28 - 2:10 pm

  I love that the Prius gets great gas mileage, not as good as advertised, but certainly a step in the right direction. The visibility needs to be improved. The rear view mirror is in the way of foot and car traffic approaching from the right-hand side. The many lights on the dashboard reflect in the windshield making night driving difficult.

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  Very reliable and economical! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By 3angelsfly - April 27 - 8:05 pm

  We now have 145,000 miles on our Prius and it has no mechanical problems and drives as good as it did when I purchased it with 67k. Still getting 45 mpg, and I dont drive easy. Cannot find a better car out there for the money and cost of ownership. Have done basic maintenance--oil changes, spark plagues, air filter, trans fluid, and a new 12V battery, and tires. Only thing that stopped working was the cd changer, but we use an ipod through the tape deck anyway. Still using original headlight bulbs, and brakes. Car handles well; very easy to drive, very good in snow and ice. Unfortunately, the car does not have comfortable seats, and is not sporty or fun to drive for a young man.

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  On my 2nd Pruis - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Jim in Wimberley, Tx - April 26 - 2:06 am

  Last week I traded in my 2008 Prius, which had 37,000 miles, for the 3rd generation 2010 model. It handles better, steering wheel is tighter, a smoother ride, no nighttime glare from the front instrument panel, and less road noise. Over my two year ownership of the 2008 Prius, I averaged 45.5 mpg, saved $2550.00 in fuel cost compared to the 20 mpg my old SUV got. Its fun to drive.

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  Buy one! Two if you can! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Gregg - April 23 - 5:50 pm

  I have about 3,000 miles on my 2008 Prius (package # 6) and I cant recommend it enough. This is the best car I have ever had. Ive mastered the glide and coast and am averaging about 60 MPG on my local drives and about 53 MPG on the longer highway drives. Your mileage will vary greatly depending on what kind of driving style you have and routes you take.

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  Zero problems - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By dickthebutcher - April 20 - 10:06 am

  I bought my 2009 Prius new and have now driven it for almost five years. It has just over 70,000 miles on it, and so far the only maintenance expenses Ive had are oil changes and one new set of tires. It still has the original brakes and they still arent showing signs of wear. Im not sure why so many others find the car uncomfortable -- Im six feet tall and have no problems. Ive driven to Florida from Pennsylvania in it and was never uncomfortable. Minor gripes: The gas tank does not fill up willingly after its about 80% full. You have to coax in the last few gallons little by little. I dont love its looks, either, but accept that trade-off to average 47 MPG year-round.

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  Amazing auto - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By AMAZING - April 19 - 7:20 pm

  Have wanted a Prius since first introduced and am so happy to be able to buy what I consider the Cadillac of hybrids. Handles great, tight and responsive. Performance - its not as quick as some expensive sports cars but for 75 horses they can jump up and run!! The touch screen is sometimes very difficult to see in bright sun.

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  solid town car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By greenie - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Interesting car that delivers promised economy. Very comfortable communter car with ample torque for local street and freeway driving. Navigation system is unnecessarily complex to use and is also quirky, frequently giving odd or inefficient directions. Averaging 45 mpg on mixture of freeway and city/suburban streets. Freeway milage much higher (45 - 75 mpg) than street milage (25 - 35 mpg).

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  Skeptics are wrong - 2013 Toyota Prius
  By longhornwine - April 17 - 3:57 pm

  I did a lot of research before deciding on a Prius, and found that, though there are plenty of raving fans, there are also a lot of detractors. I read reviews about unbearable seats, terrible road noise, lack of power, and poor driving experience. After test drives, I decided to take a chance, and bought a new Persona model, which is basically an appearance package with a few upgrades, like the 17" wheels, navigation, and leather. Ive driven it enough now to comment: the driver seat is as comfortable as any Ive ever seen. The ride and road noise are typical for any vehicle of similar class. The power is great in Power Mode, the sound system is great, and the overall sense is great!

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  Love the Prius! still going............. - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By Tone - April 17 - 10:00 am

  To my surprise,the Prius is a great hybrid car. The Prius has very arrowdynamic exterior styling,especially in the front. If you want a hybrid car,this is a great choice.I have about 500 miles on my new 2003 prius. 507 to be exact and Im stil on my first tank of gas!!!!!!! LOVE the gas mileage! This car is huge on the inside:).It seems almost like you are sitting in a Camry. Not the best looking car Ive ever seen, but it is definitely great value for the dollar. All Toyotas are.:)

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  Grat Car - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By ken08 - April 13 - 10:00 am

  One of the best cars on the road to drive........all cars should be made this way.........who needs gas