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 best - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By sk629 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  the car is very comfortable to travel in,also it has a very smooth ride,the only problem i have seen is that when there is even a light rain you really need rain shields because of the water that runs in on the door panels,at the present time i use a small towel to put over the elec palels on each door to keep them dry...

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  Nothing bothersome or disturbing - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Fastlane - June 10 - 4:46 pm

  Had mostly higher end wheels. Always new such as Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, Land Rover, Volvo as well as wild exotics and quite a few SUVs and pickup trucks. This is my first experience with Toyota and Im loving it. I feel like it took a while but now I get it. Had to have the 50+ MPG - a political thing to be sure but I am sick of sending my hard earned bucks out of the USA and to big oil companies. I also believe that global warming is real and this car is really low emissions. This is a really well built fun to drive car -and a gadget freaks dream car. Its roomy, very quiet and really has nothing bothersome or disturbing at all. Its unique - in a class by itself.

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  Toyota Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By GBajor - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Performs well even in mountains. Fuel economy not quite the advertised, I get 45 to 50 mpg

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  my first toyota prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By pete bogumill - June 3 - 10:26 pm

  I am tired of the fact that gas prices are forever climbing so I bought a Toyota Prius. I love the car. Its fun to drive and it is a well made car. I am averaging approx 50 m.p.g. so far this summer. I have about 6000 miles on it now and I have no regrets. I hope toyota keeps their quality forever. I couldnt be more happy with this Toyota Prius. Thank you.

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  Fuel-efficient, comfortable and fun!! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By RichardT - June 2 - 6:50 am

  With Hondas decision to scrap the Insight, this is now the most fuel-efficient car, bar none, in the U.S. Its also well designed, comfortable (Im 61") and, although it might take a bit of time to get used to the very different display and transmission, a blast to drive. Four adults can sit in the car with plenty of leg room, although the roof can be a bit low in the back for taller passengers, and it handles freeway speeds as well as any car Ive ever driven. Note: If you have a lead-foot, are an aggressive driver, or expect sports-car performance, the Prius is not for you. If you enjoy 45-50 mpg overall, and can change some driving habits, I can think of no better vehicle - period.

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  The future is here - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Alan Lippy - June 2 - 5:36 am

  Hard to imagine the interior room and comfort when looking from the outside. Average gas mileage since owning is 48 miles to gallon. That is 65% highway and 35% local driving with 15 mile daily commute in suburban Phila. The handling is great on curves and ramps. Overall, while driving down the road, called the dealer and ordered another vehicle from him...if that tells you anything.

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  Great car - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Suzane W - June 1 - 2:27 am

  Gas mileage is down about 10 mpg in the winter, but overall it is a great car. Does great in the snow, roomy inside and comfortable.

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  2005 Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Jmtdmt53 - May 30 - 6:36 pm

  We live in Western New York (Buffalo). We took delivery of this vehicle in November of 2004 after a wait of 4 months. We were originally told that the order time could be up to 6 months. We have found that the average mileage since delivery is approx. 42 mpg. This is less than the sticker estimates. I spoke to a Toyota product specialist for Prius at the the Detroit Auto Show in January and he told me that the cold weather could be the biggest factor affecting MPG at this time. I have spoken to 2 other Prius owners in this city and they are getting similar mileage. Otherwise we are very pleased with the quality and design of the vehicle and are happy with out purchase.

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  Guilt Free Luxury - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By voyagers - May 30 - 11:40 am

  Call it a compact car if you like, but it can haul a ton of people and stuff. Take the rear covers out and fold the seats down if you need more. It survived the NW winter like a champ. Hot-soak thermos feature for the cylinder head keeps heated coolant for 3 days and pumps it in for the cold start. Just 1 of dozens of great features. Synergy drive rocks. Some w 300k already. Our 18000 mi average is just under 52 mpg. This summer well beat that. Think theyre slow? Prius does teach you to conserve but if you need the torque try 82ft.lbs. from the engine and 295! from the electrics. 13 to 1 compression ratio with variable valve timing, regenerative braking... can you tell I like this car?

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  great Prius Great dealership - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By alanlpa - May 30 - 10:00 am

  I really love this car It does so many things other cars dont. espically love getting over 50MPH.