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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  The Prius - evaluating it for what it is - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By wvgasguy - August 25 - 4:33 am

  This is an efficient, but sometimes high priced economy car. It is in that class of cars I am comparing the Prius. The Model V does indeed stick to the road with no noticeable handling concerns when driven at legal speeds. Without trying I have been exceeding 50 mpg, even with the 17" wheels. I consider the "loaded" Prius comparable in comfort with anything Ive driven with the exception of some road noise AND the lack of a power seat adjustment. For economy, this car is at the top of the "want to have it" list. It has its own charm and to me the new body style is attractive rather than "funky" as I have described the previous generations. Not all will agree. Youll either love it or not.

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  Long term ownership. - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Jeffand - August 23 - 10:20 am

  Driving habbits: Mostly country driving, 45-55 MPH. Location: Wisconsin. Summer: 49-53 MPG Winter: 40-45 MPG Cold weather, and short trips do reduce milage. Driving at speeds greater than 65 mph also will reduce milage. Acceleration is ok. Accelrates faster than some mini vans, and SUVs. 0 to 60 in 10 seconds.

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  Love the Prius - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By William Smith - August 17 - 3:33 am

  I checked on this vehicle for over a year before I bought it. I thought it would be a good vehicle to buy. I drove it on two occasions prior to purchase. It has been much better than that. No problems, mileage isnt quite what others claim, but I am happy with 45 average. The car is full of goodies that others miss out on. It is a very good experience to own and drive. It does take a few weeks to get used to it, but when you do, you will love it.

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  My New Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Denise - August 14 - 12:23 pm

  Over all I think this is a very good buy. I am saving tons of money on gas already. I drive an hour+ each way to and from work so this has been wonderful. Even though the freeway I use has no carpool lane, the savings makes a big difference. Everyone asks questions about my car everywhere I go, and Im so happy to show them all the goodies on it. I would love everyone to own at least one hybrid.

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  Love it, love it, love it - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By omerward - August 13 - 4:00 am

  Gas mileage is in the mid to high 40s. Easy and fun to drive. Good acceleration. Interior styling is awesome. I just love the way it looks and drives. Makes me feel good.

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  Protect the Environment and Great MPG 2! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Kenny - August 9 - 2:20 am

  I am a car enthusiast so I had a closed mind to Hybrids, but after knowing a few people who really liked them I decided to test drive one. Ive now owned mine for over 3 months and I really am impressed with Toyota and this car. Concern for the environment was my original incentive but the gas mileage is really impressive with commensurate power and handling. Its great filling the tank up for $30 (its a 10 gal tank) twice a month. At stop and go speeds the electric motor is working with no emissions or usage of gas. Gridlock and drive-thrus or waiting for someone with the a/c or heat on is no longer a concern.

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  Good Decision - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By mgbte - August 8 - 2:46 am

  I hesitated about buying the car but my 85 year old father insisted I look. I was very pleased once I got in and took it for a drive. Like some others, Im not bowled over by my mileage - high 30s - but its better than my old SUV. Someone called the look of this car "a Middle School science experiment" and I cant disagree. I hope they "update" the exterior with future models. Good purchase, happy about it, but a bit disappointed with my less-than-advertised MPG.

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  Surprising Small Car - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By TBeck - August 6 - 11:33 am

  After driving this car for 100 miles, I am very surprised at its big car feel. Ride quality is very good as is interior comfort. The car feels extremely solid and makes you think youre driving a car as big as the Camry. Toyotas attention to detail is evident everywhere. Seems like the accountants were left out for once in designing this car.

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  Pet Gals friend - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By pegkd - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Great car! I run a pet sitting business and use my car to get to appointments. I bought the car for the economy (gotta keep those costs down) but love the way it handles in all weather and roomy interior for carrying all my stuff. Pretty good pick up for engine size.

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  Papa Loves His Prius! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Papa - August 3 - 10:26 pm

  Well, I have had this new 2007 Toyota Prius for exactly one month now and I have driven it 1400 miles. Some would say that isnt long enough to know much about a vehicle. I disagree. This is a very comfortable and quiet car; hence those miles were easy to drive. I am less fatigued than I would be if I drove the same 1400 miles in a Subaru or a Saturn. (I have owned many Subarus and one Saturn.) This car is so much fun to drive! Its the future, but now. I feel like Im driving a car for the second millenium! I love that this car is so well thought out and safe. Toyota hasnt compromised much of anything as far as I can tell - plenty of power on the highway & great fuel economy wherever.