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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  Nice, dependable car! - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By lia_lee - March 12 - 11:10 am

  I just recently bought my 09 toyota prius yesterday, and I would have to say its a beauty! I do love it, although I dont think it was worth the amount I got it for. The driver door lock does not seem to work while using the FOB. By this, I have to lock the driver door before getting out of the car to ensure that all the doors are locked. For me to get in, I have unlock the car using the FOB, get in the passenger side to unlock the drivers door for me or the driver to get in. I did some research and it seems like Im not the only with the problem. I guess it has something to do with the electric lock solenoid inside the door. I probably was too excited to check and make sure of these things.

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  Love it.... - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By ladybalboa - March 12 - 4:46 am

  I love my car. Averaging 52 mpg. Its great. The car is very comfortable for long trips.

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  Whats not to love about the Prius? - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Synge - March 9 - 1:20 am

  Whats not to love about the Toyota Prius? Its a blast to drive, not in the same way a high performance sports car is, but in its own unique way. Ive found that the instant MPG readout tends to make me want to drive in ways that maximize the MPGs. This results in me driving slower and more in control than I have in years. The advertised EPA MPG ratings are not far off, if youre careful. Ive been getting around 50 MPG highway and mid 40s around town. The in-town ratings are lower than advertised so far, but I live in northern Michigan which means I need to run the heat and defrosters constantly. This forces the gasoline engine to run a lot more often which leads to lower MPGs.

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  My Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mike - March 7 - 9:00 am

  Great car that is very well thought out. It seems like Toyota thought about everything. But I am a b it disappointed in the fact that there have been two recalls.

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  Be sure this is what you want - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By demetrios999 - March 7 - 5:01 am

  Run the numbers before making your decision. 50 mpg is impressive, but the Prius costs several thousand dollars more than a comparably equipped gas-only vehicle (think Corolla). If you drive 15,000 miles per year, the difference in annual fuel costs between a car that gets 30mpg and a car that gets 50mpg is only $600/year @ $3/gallon, or $800/year at $4/gallon. You may never make up the cost difference. Power is acceptable (not great) when you punch "Power Mode", otherwise it is a road hazard. I always punch that button when driving from a stoplight or getting on the highway, and turn it off when I am up to speed.

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  Better than Advertised - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By prius driver - March 5 - 2:00 am

  The Prius is dead-on reliable. It has been my every day driver for two full years now and it has averaged about 51 miles per gallon. It does inspire me to try to squeeze every extra mile I can out of each tank of gas, but when I need to be in a hurry it rises to the occation for that, too, while still getting excellent economy.

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  Peppy Prius - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Judy Guariglia - February 26 - 12:01 am

  Cant imagine having a different vehicle. This is my 2nd consecutive Prius. I am more than happy. Very impressed with the new design. Sexy, fast and environmentally friendly!

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  Just a GREAT automobile - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Joe Rizzo - February 22 - 7:03 am

  I got the car because of the NYS Clean Pass that allows travel in LIE HOV lane w/o any passengers. Mission accomplished. Bought new 4/21/06, now has 12,000 miles. The surprise was the silver lining - anywhere between 48 and 54 mpg saves me thousands in gasoline. I drive a daily round trip of 140 miles - the car replaced by the Prius was a 2004 Mercedes Benz CLK Convertible - Benz @ 20 mpg with high test, Prius @ 50 mpg with regular. Any questions? And the fact that every fill-up costs pennies vs. the Benz says it all. My driveway contains three Mercedes, one BMW, one SAAB and one Prius. Reverse snobbery rules here in my house - the Prius wins HANDS DOWN. No wonder it retains value!

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  More than expected - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By b_miller - February 21 - 4:56 am

  I was expecting great gas mileage, I was expecting legendary Toyota quality. I was not expecting the power that this sub 100 horsepower engine put out. Very quick acceleration considering it has something like 73 HP. Very good cargo space, seats folding flat is a great plus as well. Car drives very smooth, and handling is responsive. Car seems to have a very light but noticable shift/transition from electric power to gas. Overall a great car, I would rate a 8.5 out of 10. Gas mileage is amazing and get up and go is more than adequate. Would recommend.

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  Best Decision I made this year! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Laura - February 21 - 1:00 am

  I love this car for the most part. Getting used to all of the electronic gadgetry is a bit daunting, but its new and innovative and real saver on gasoline. As a commuter, this is a great car that will inevitably save me much in expected gas costs, but it is not a car for hauling mulch or strapping kayaks to for a road trip. The inside cargo space is better than adequate and can likely meet most minor hauling needs. It definitely seats 4 people comfortably, if necessary.