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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  Worse car Ive ever owned - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Rangita - November 25 - 9:23 am

  I just sold mine at carmax. My Prius started to fall apart after two years and 55000 miles on it. The engine is great but the body part is the worst one you can have. Mine was loaded with full options because I was thinking its going to be our family car but I started to have problems after 18 months of use. Im glad to get rid of it.

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  Great Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Elizabeth J. KIkuchi - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car and the most comfortable car we have owned in 50 years.

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  Better than I expected - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Brad - November 20 - 5:06 pm

  I decided to go "green," but was not all that excited about the Prius. But Ive been more than pleasantly surprised. The leather seating is a nice touch and the interior is very spacious and comfortable. The electronic controls (radio, climate, etc.) are outstanding, much better than those offered by the German automakers. And performance-wise, the car has some kick. No, its not a BMW but its not slow and I really enjoy driving it. The only negative I can think of is that the car is so light that when its very windy and youre on the highway, you can really feel it.

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  Got just what we wanted - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Robert Greenstreet - November 20 - 9:41 am

  We wanted the Toyota Safety Sense features, but not the moonroof--so we didnt want to buy the technology package. We also wanted a spare tire rather than a repair kit. The Prius Three Touring gave us just what we were looking for, and we are thoroughly enjoying those safety features. It is a Toyota, so everything works as promised, and we get two years of free maintenance. The biggest problem with this car is that we want to take it everywhere--so were racking up the miles. The claimed mileage range is not correct--so far were averaging close to 60 mpg (rather than the 52 combined EPA figure.) Of course, we accelerate slowly and use the available feedback to stay in the ECO zone....

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  Learning to Slow Down - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Vindicator - November 15 - 5:50 pm

  The car has never failed to please - except with the HVAC system and interface - which is clearly not up to the challenges of upstate NY in the winter. Stock tires leave a lot to be deired in traction and handling -get four snow tires from tirerack. Actual mileage has averaged out to 41.8 MPG. Trust me - your driving habits will change to accomodate the car. It appreciates speeds of =< 62 and is happiest with a commute lasting at least 20 minutes, particularly when the weather is colder than 40. It takes that long for the battery stack to come up to temp and effectively contribute to moving the car.

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  Disappointed in fuel economy - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By reid - November 15 - 12:33 pm

  I had a 2007 Prius which got 47 to 53 mpg. This car was totaled and I was so happy with the car itself and then definitely the safety features. I purchased a 2008 Prius and now only get 36 to 43 mpg. I have been to a local dealer to no avail and I am heading to the dealership where I bought the car today. Leaving on big road trip in September, I hope they can do something!!

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  Its a Prius! What do you think?? - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Simon - November 14 - 10:30 am

  We fell in love with this car since we got one as a loaner when I took my brothers Scion in for service. This car is simply awesome! Im getting 49 mpg mostly city driving. Its quiet and comfortable and it has lots of gadgets to play with. We went with a package 5 which has everything but leather seats. Wed have gotten the leather if its heated. It has bluetooth, backup camera, a super clear touchscreen (best ive seen), JBL stereo, HID headlight, smart key, navigation, etc. Its not that expensive either, considering it has so much to offer.

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  Prius Proud - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By ennas - November 13 - 5:46 am

  Having driven everything from a Porsche 944 to a Pontiac GTO (66) and some of the fastest gas guzzlers one can drive, I am now an impassioned convert (arent all converts impassioned?) to the low-emission, high-mileage-per-gallon world of the Toyota Prius. This car is incredible. First off, the mileage is great, even better than I thought it would be. Second, and now just as critical as ever, is the emissions. Very low, negligibly low, which means great things for the environment. Third, this car is FAST. Gets you on the highway very quickly and (dont tell the state troopers) Ive had this car up to 95 mph; the car didnt even hiccup at that speed. Thats plenty fast for anyone.

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  Love the Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By hdparker - November 11 - 3:16 am

  We purchased the Prius expecting good gas mileage and got so much more! The car has incredible rear seat leg room and is well thought out. We have had it for a little under a month, and in that time, the worst mileage has been 50.4, tbe best has been 52.5. This is rural/city combination driving.

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  Has been to the dealer twice in a wk - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Mervyn J.Samuel MD - November 10 - 11:23 am

  Bought the car less than 4 months ago. Happy with the gas mileage. Three times I had to jump stat the car. The fourth time, even after charging, the car would not start. I called the Toyota emergency service, was told there is no free towing service for the Prius. We had it towed to the dealer. They reset about 8 codes and said the car was fine. Two days later at noon, the car would not start and had to jump start and took it the dealer. They charged the battery and said it is fine. I think this model has some electrical problem. They should have tried a new battery, but did not do it. The display panel in the middle of the car is not ideal. To look at it, you have to take your eyes off the road.