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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  Love it and No Looking Back - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By LOLguy - January 16 - 11:13 am

  Moved on from a Subaru Outback and love the 54MPG from 21 with the Subaru. Great style and build, and lots of fun to drive. Much consideration has also been given to safety (side bags, traction control, etc.). Plus, being able to track whats powering the car (battery v. engine), bluetooth capability, navigation and now SIRIUS), its a big geeks dream. A BIG thumbs up!!!

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  Nothing Bad to Say - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Dale Howard - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I can not find anything to complain about regarding my new 2004 Prius. I average 50-55 mpg and this is great with gasoline prices so high now. The car actually has better pick-up than my former car, which was a 1985 VW Scirocco. I have lots of people to ask about it and how I like it. My friend, who owns a VW Jetta, says that my car has more interior room than his. Wonderfuf CAR!

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  Immediate decision thanks to internet - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By maxvok - January 10 - 10:00 am

  General impression is very positive but after 800 miles I had a flat auxilliary battery without any apparent reason, which was covered by the warranty. This is the first new car I bought in 50 years after only a few hours surfing on the internet, usually I required weeks to study/compare brochures and could still not decide. The trial trip was a formality and hardly spoke to salesman who knew less than I as the car was introduced in the Netherlands only a few days before; bought the only available showroom car as another dealer had then already delivery time of 4+ months

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  avoid prius!!! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By poorvic2 - January 8 - 3:54 am

  Unless you are Bill Gates with very deep pockets i strongly advise avoiding a Prius. They are overpriced, do not get the gas mileage claimed and, worse of all, have the same build quality as a Yugo! I dont know where all the positive comments are from by my experience with a 2008 prius has been nothing short of a disaster. Ignition battery went out in less than 2 mnoths. Cost 200. to replace. Water pump failed and warning light did not come on. Computer had failed and repair of 1000.00 added to my cost of running this junk. Mileage? less than 60.000 miles!! Come on a Ford Pinto would have run longer than that. Well, i learned by lesson – no more overpriced Toyotas!

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  Love my Prius! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By VT Prius Fan - January 7 - 6:56 pm

  I purchased my 2008 Prius in November of 2007 and now have just over 12,000 miles on it. I average between 46 and 50 mpg. It does a little better on highway trips. The car has plenty of room too. In March I took a trip with three other people to Charleston, SC from Ashburn, VA. With four people in the car + luggage the Prius averaged 47 mpg. I cannot say enough good things about this car. Since I have purchased my Prius at least 4 co-workers have purchased hybrid cars because they were so impressed with mine. If you are looking for a new car, go ahead and buy a Prius. You will not regret it.

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  car critique. - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By d.t. - January 5 - 3:36 pm

  rear window wiper arm does not elevate for cleaning . have nothad any problem to accelerate on entering interstate highway. especially like convenience of key less entry.

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  Fun to drive/own - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By jdw174 - January 5 - 2:40 pm

  If I didnt have to tow a boat, Id have bought two of these instead of just one. One of the most fun to drive cars, I look forward to the wife and I going out on weekends just so I get to drive it once in awhile. A lot of pep considering whats under the hood. We got the #5 package (loaded with everything) and its really great. Even better when I have to stop for fuel. So far 1200 miles on $24 worth of gas. It needs to have deeper tint on the windows as the interior gets really warm in the sun.

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  Must Buy! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By tom - January 5 - 11:40 am

  Driving this vehicle is so much fun. It is my wifes car, but I try to drive whenever I get a chance. I love the real-time fuel consumption gauge. The GPS is perfect for the city. The steering is great. The car accelerates suprisingly fast. There is plenty of room for my large road bike in the back. As a 6 2" male, I fit comfortably in the front & rear seats. Most of all I like that the car has actually appreciated in value. That is unheard of!

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  Winner - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By prius0304 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  An outstanding car for urban and distance driving, averaging 46-48 mpg. Torque provides all the acceleration needed. However, the ride can be harsh on rough surfaces and the navigation system is quirky. The navigation can be very useful but the driver needs to think for herself in deciding whether to follow its directions.

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  Best Ecconomy car Availabel - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By George - January 2 - 2:53 pm

  Bought the Prius 1 June 2009. At first I had trouble getting used to the electronic displays, but after driving one week I became accustomed with them. The most important reason for buying the Prius was its reliability, the CVT transmission and the fuel economy. After driving 1400 miles I am averaging 50 miles per gallon overall. In city driving I get about 45 mpg, I live in a hilly area. On the highway I get about 53 mpg. The electronic display help one economize fuel if you desire so.