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:
Showing 441 through 450 of 2,454.00-
The best - 2006 Toyota Prius
By Larry - March 28 - 4:00 pmI will never buy another type or make of vehicle. I love my Prius
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TRY A pRIUS - YOULL BE SUPRISED - 2011 Toyota Prius
By mss - March 27 - 11:25 pmThe cargo area (especially with rear seats folded) is very roomy - I have moved a twin bed and sheets of particle board. The rear seat head and leg room is great for a vehicle this size. You will need to spring for fully synthetic oil changes (but not as often), new tires and headlamps - otherwise no maintenance costs and low fuel costs. Extremely reliable and economical. All around great value!
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Former Lexus Driver - 2006 Toyota Prius
By jblakely - March 24 - 10:26 amI own a 2005 and 2006 Prius. The Prius has excellent interior room. Both of my Prius cars get between 40-45 MPG in a combination of city and freeway driving. The car has good acceleration, and acceptable interior noise. Its fun to drive and quite comfortable to operate.
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My Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
By Cherie - March 23 - 8:03 amI find my Prius to have plenty of power when I need it. I enjoy watching the mileage indicator hovering around 50 mpg just driving around. I sometimes hit 58 mpg on the highway. I really appreciate that I only fill it up once every two weeks.
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My Hybrid - 2004 Toyota Prius
By Eleanorten - March 23 - 2:00 amThis vehicle is very peppy and will move on the highway. I cant believe the gas mileage Im getting, about 40 MPG on the highway and 50+ around town. The interior is very roomy - I have 2 booster seats in the back for the kids and still have the hatchback trunk for packages.
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Remote starter ?????????????? - 2013 Toyota Prius
By barville21 - March 22 - 2:25 pmRemote doesnt work 99% of the time. In 6 weeks of winter, it started my car 3 times. All with me outside, near the car. Dealer gave me an extremely hard time. Went There 4 times before they agreed to take it out and refund my money. They dont have a better remote to choose from and it cost just shy of $600. Worse yet, after I had it installed and complianed ,2 employees told me they knew it wasnt a good starter. Back window has a poor view. Rearview mirrors doesnt dim headlights enough. Can be dangerous.
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Wow! - 2009 Toyota Prius
By snead_c - March 20 - 10:43 amWe have passed 1000 miles and I could not be more satisfied with our 2009 Prius Touring. It is quiet, smooth with good driving dynamics, and the fuel economy is wonderful at 47+ mpg on regular gas. Ours has package #5 and its convenience features (voice rec, bluetooth,, JBL etc) make ownership a joy.
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Really enjoy - 2005 Toyota Prius
By RICHARD WOLFE - March 19 - 11:03 pmReally have fun driving this Prius. Bought it in CA and drove it to TX. It handles like a dream. Get remarks on how good-looking car is and how quiet it is all the time. Got to be careful when driving in parking lots it is so quiet. Best car I ever had, and Ive owned several.
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McDaniel evaluation - 2005 Toyota Prius
By Bill McDaniel - March 18 - 8:53 amI bought this car 4 months ago, and shortly after buying it drove it to San Francisco. (905 miles) It got 45-47 mph on the highway, and was incredibly comfortable, and has as much power as I needed under any circumstance. In fact, my wife and I drove straight through coming home; we just werent tired. I do enjoy this car!
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Every car should be this great! - 2004 Toyota Prius
By John Moss - March 16 - 2:00 amIve owned my 2004 Prius (Package #9 - loaded) since October 15, 2003. I believe I was one of the very first folks to take possession of this incredible automobile. I have been driving luxury and sport cars for more than 35 years, and I have never gotten as much pleasure behind the wheel as I experience daily while driving my 2004 Prius. The technology is a marvel. From the bluetooth phone to the Navigation to the voice activation to the driving in stealth mode, this car is a blast. In every way, owning a 2004 Prius has exceeded my most demanding expectations.
