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 our Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Sher - May 28 - 12:03 pm

  Driving our Prius has been an inspiring experience; its given my family a new appreciation for our environment. Its allowing us the opportunity to move towards a greener lifestyle. Performance is great, our Prius has pickup, zip and responds well in each situation weve put it through.

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  The only problem is... - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By priusracer - May 27 - 2:25 am

  I have absolutely no regrets, however, I would have caught major flak from my peers were I still a Special Agent with the DEwho? I catch enough of it, now. Why? The reputation of the Prius, of course. I, myself, used to deride the car - who would name a car after a serious prostate condition (priapism)? Actually, I do have one regret - I cannot go off-road like I did in my Jeeps!

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  Great car! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Ella - May 26 - 10:56 am

  Ive had my Prius for 19 months now. This is absolutely the best car I have ever driven. During the winter months, I average about 45 mpg. During the summer months, I average 50+ mpg. My last few tanks have averaged in the mid 50s. This car is full of positives: it is great to drive, very smooth, great pick-up power, smart-key entry, easy to operate/read display monitor, and best of all . . . I stop at gas stations more to get a bottle of pop than to get gasoline!

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  What I think of my Prius - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Robert Blee - May 25 - 11:36 am

  I am a little disappointed that the mileage is not quite as expected, 46 mpg, but its not so bad, and the car is beautiful inside and out (I got the leather seats). The navigation system is easy to use, although the car prevents me from using it while driving. Also, the air bag alarm goes off if I place my briefcase on the passenger seat, it thinks I put a small child there without a seatbelt, I guess. Another anoyance is the open door light, it doesnt tell you which door. Even my old 1977 Honda accord did that! But, the backup video is useful, keeps me from running over my cats, and, overall, in spite of the annoyances, I am very happy with the car.

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  Gatorland Toyota sold me A great 2015 Prius - 2015 Toyota Prius
  By 2015prius - May 19 - 11:40 am

  Many people told me I would regret buying a Prius, and they are all wrong. I have gotten some really amazing mileage on my 2015 Toyota Prius Persona. Toyota makes excellent vehicles. My brother bought a Scion, and his is great also; of course its made by Toyota too. The only drawback is the dash is hard to clean because it is rough finished, everything else works flawlessly. Gatorland Toyota of Gainesville, Florida sold me this car at a great price too! People told me it would have no pep at all, boy they are wrong. You should go take one for a spin before you put it down. So many features, so great a price.

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  Gas mileage is REAL - 2017 Toyota Prius
  By Prius lover - May 18 - 4:14 pm

  Purchased a new Prius Two Eco and just finished the first tank of gas... 56 MPG! You cannot beat this car for operating cost. Extremely comfortable to drive and ride as a passenger, far more leg room (and cargo room) than would be expected. At this point, Im thrilled!

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  Prius 2005 - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Tim - May 16 - 8:06 pm

  Well it has been almost a month and over 1000 miles. My main concern is the drastic difference in MPG. I am getting low 40s a significant deviation from the touted 51/60. Acceleration off the line is lousy, but when you want to pass on the freeway you can easily, even up hills. Regarding the exterior it would be nice if the antenna wasnt sticking up like gazelle with only one horn. It would make putting a car cover on a nightmare. Inside, there is legroom galore. Seating for 5 and cupholders for 4 is a bit odd, but oh well. It would be nice if you could sit two in the back with the small side folded down but no.

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  I LOVE MY CAR - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Lora Hallberg - May 11 - 10:20 pm

  I love this car. It is wonderfully balanced and is a pleasure to drive mountain roads. I am only sorry leather was not an option when I bought my car. My family borrows it when they have a trip of more than 50 miles to go on. My son liked mine so much he went and bought an 06 model. The GPS is easy to use, the bluetooth option works like a charm so I am now hands free. I work for myself so my car is my office and I couldnt have bought a better car for my lifestyle.

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  concerned - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By spike - May 9 - 1:40 pm

  We have a new 2010 Prius. We are very happy with the overall performance of the car. We average 47mpg,and are pleased with everything about the car,except.. On Ice,snow or even a smooth surface, it seems to loose all ability to read the tires. Bells and whistles go of and essentially we loose the ability to steer. If I had wanted a summer car I would have bought a sports car. I am very concerned regarding the safety of a car that you cant steer in bad weather.

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  Love the Prius - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By thyde - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I went from a Ford Expedition getting 11 mpg to the Prius and am saving over $100/mo in gas. Pickup is surprising (its no sports car, but for what it is, it moves better than you might imagine.) Has excellent standard features and the Toyota reliability.