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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  I will never buy a non hybrid again - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By John - April 22 - 8:53 am

  We average between 45 and 50 mpgs. Great little car. Plenty of room inside for four adults. No complaints at all. Wife loves it also.

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  So far we are loving it! - 2013 Toyota Prius
  By rkhamilton920 - April 20 - 6:25 am

  Purchased car last weekend - $27,500 OTD. Last minute decision decided to buy 72 mo/100K extended warranty that included routine maintenance for 48 mo/45K for $1200. Really enjoying the can so far - its my wifes first "new car" - she;s always gotten my hand me downs. She drives 100 miles RT to work and shes loving it. Ill update as we own it a bit longer.

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  Short on Detail - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Toll House - April 15 - 6:10 pm

  We purchased the Prius V with the Advanced Technology Package. It has all the bells and whistles anyone could want in a vehicle but it Lacks In a Few Important Details. The Seats are the biggest disappointment, for a test drive you dont notice, but drive it 50 miles, you will definitely feel it. Placement of the Navigation screen when in the sunlight, makes it almost useless. The sun visors are way short of blocking the sun on the long and lengthily driver and passenger windows. Where are the tinted windows? There is no efficiency in having to use the air conditioner for the added sunlight? I have owned many Toyota vehicles & this one falls short on the added comfort & details I expected.

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  A Joy To Drive - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Cecil - April 14 - 3:56 pm

  Ive only had it a few weeks, but have taken it on a couple of long distance runs and have enjoyed the ride. The navigation system makes getting there a joy and the comfort level is great. Because of the lack of noise and the climate control factors I didnt get tired. All in all I have been enjoying the gas milage in town and on the road (although I havent acheived the estimated rates yet) and the environment of the inside of the car and the beauty of the outside design. The lack of emissions is a good feeling. Toyota, keep up the good work.

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  Great Car - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Brian - April 14 - 4:03 am

  I had a 2004 Chevy Silverado and now I drive a Prius and I do not miss the truck. I ordered mine with PKG #3 and it is Black with gray interior. For anyone thinking about buying this car you have to take one for a ride . All I can say it is incredible, it handles great and gives a surprisingly great big car ride. Gas mileage is just mind blowing for me going from a truck, I avg 51 mpg and have driven it so far 15000 miles. I am 6 tall and I have no trouble driving it. I also tried the Honda Civic and didnt like the car at all. Get the Prius you will not regret it. Great little car.

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  Better Than Advertised - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Recent Owner - April 12 - 8:46 am

  The Prius has been even better than expected. It has the gas mileage but it also has a great ride, better than the Civic, which I love. It is extremely comfortable and very roomy. The quality and innovations make this car a lot of fun to drive. The space age display that informs you of your immediate miles per gallon etc. brings out the competitive spirit in you to achieve even greater accomplishments in fuel ecconomy. This leads to safer driving etc. The car would be excellent without the gas mileage benefit. You certainly have enough pep when you need it. Reports indicate the gas mileage is less than the EPA numbers. However, so far Im getting 56 total mile per gallon.

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  My Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Richard Campbell - April 11 - 4:46 am

  I traded in my 2004 for a 2007 because I wanted side air bags. Probably the best car I have ever owned.

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  I love my Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By jaws - April 9 - 9:00 am

  I traded a 2000 Acura RL, crazy huh, for the mpg, but was concerned about handling and quality-I love to drive. The Prius offers surprisingly good handling, cornering, and acceleration. Its very peppy, and has deceivng speed "feel", so you have to keep glancing at speedometer. Quality in and out is outstanding. Im 6 ft-180 lbs, and the driver seat is extremely comfortable and supportive, even without power adjustment. Other seating is also comfortable, with plenty or room. Cargo space is limited, but split fold-down rear seats compensate. There are several other storage areas not initially evident-and I dont mean cup holders. Im averaging 48 mpg on 50/50 local/highway driving.

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  Smart Choice! - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By Patrick Law - April 6 - 2:06 pm

  Prius is probably "the" car for a geeky engineer like me: Drive by wire throttle, hybrid engine, re-generative brake, computerized engine display, etc. You also get the build quality of a Toyota. It may not be a big deal for its gas mileage nowaday as gas price is just a bit over $1. But as a VULEV (very ultra low emission vehicle), I feel a lot better driving this car around.

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  Greatest thing since sliced bread - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Ron - April 4 - 12:10 am

  I have 64K miles and have only replaced tires & wiper blades. I average 52 MPG, mostly driven at 50-55 mph. There is a learning curve to getting good MPG. I use the cruise control all the time, even in city driving. It works down to 24 MPH! Consistent speed is the key. The ride and handling is great. Fun car to drive. Im getting another this year.