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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  Another positive review - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By George Roland - March 19 - 12:36 pm

  Ive been very happy with my 02 Prius. Good resale value! Its now 7 years old and running superbly. My MPG has been an average of 38 in the winter and 42 in the summer. This car really has to be serviced at the dealer. I went to Jiffy Lube for a radiator flush, and though they insisted they used the right fluid, they didnt and my car broke down. I had to replace the coolant reservoir ($600). My only other repair still needs to be done: the navigation system stopped working due to an electrical failure. All the other features of the display work (audio, trip computer, avg MPG, etc) The nav can be repaired for $600 refurbished or $4000 new but I think I will just buy a tomtom.

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  Life is funny... Great car, great mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Stephen Boyd - March 12 - 9:26 pm

  When I was young, it was all about trying to break the land speed record. Now that Im 40ish, its all about squeezing the most out of a gallon of gas. This car has a lot more gitty-up than youd expect. In terms of MPG, which is why we buy these cars, my overall is averaging about 46 MPG, BUT, I understand that this figure is supposed to go up as the car is broken in. I have noticed that my last 3 tanks have resulted in higher MPG with each new fill up. In terms of the extras, well, its unbelievable. Oh, and I just applied for the California sticker that will allow me to drive in the carpool lane without a passenger.

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  Nice, dependable car! - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By lia_lee - March 12 - 11:10 am

  I just recently bought my 09 toyota prius yesterday, and I would have to say its a beauty! I do love it, although I dont think it was worth the amount I got it for. The driver door lock does not seem to work while using the FOB. By this, I have to lock the driver door before getting out of the car to ensure that all the doors are locked. For me to get in, I have unlock the car using the FOB, get in the passenger side to unlock the drivers door for me or the driver to get in. I did some research and it seems like Im not the only with the problem. I guess it has something to do with the electric lock solenoid inside the door. I probably was too excited to check and make sure of these things.

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  More than expected - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By b_miller - February 21 - 4:56 am

  I was expecting great gas mileage, I was expecting legendary Toyota quality. I was not expecting the power that this sub 100 horsepower engine put out. Very quick acceleration considering it has something like 73 HP. Very good cargo space, seats folding flat is a great plus as well. Car drives very smooth, and handling is responsive. Car seems to have a very light but noticable shift/transition from electric power to gas. Overall a great car, I would rate a 8.5 out of 10. Gas mileage is amazing and get up and go is more than adequate. Would recommend.

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  White Elephant - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Sanjeev Gupta - February 18 - 3:20 am

  Good vehicle. Comfortable driving but defeats the purpose of buying it. Mileage 49 for the first year, 46 for the second year, 44 in this third year. Recommended Tires very expensive ($108 against $60 for regular one), headlight HID bulbs burn out fast- Ultra expensive ($771.43 +Tax). Car can only be serviced at dealership and they charge a lot more than a regular service at Walmart. I do not see any savings.

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  We love our Prius - especially w/ $4 gas - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By tim - February 16 - 11:56 pm

  We love our Prius - great hauling capacity with hatch and flip-down rear seats. We are especially glad that we own it since gas is now over $4 a gallon.

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  Great Car/Poor Interior Cloth Choice - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Scott Bui - February 16 - 5:13 pm

  This is definitely the best car I have ever driven in my life. This is an extremely fun to drive, quiet, head- turner. We live in the hills in the suburbs of Los Angeles and get about 43-45 MPG with the A/C on and around 48-50 MPG without the A/C. Trunk space is amazing with the 60/40 split from the back seats. Im probably the only one in the U.S. using the Prius to pick up CARGO SHIPMENTS. Normally pick up around CARGO boxes (up to 8 boxes 400 lbs) from LAX to my office.

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  Learning experience - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Billdp - January 27 - 9:20 pm

  I bought my Prius strictly for the fuel economy. I have been commuting to work in a GMC Sierra pickup which I love but has not been kind to my wallet as the gas pump. I was very surprised by the ride and feel of the Prius the first time out. It rode like a mid size car not a compact. I fully expected that the vehicle is no performance machine so the acceleration issues were no surprise. This car teaches you how to drive efficiently and the gas mileage is insane. By far the best hybrid on the market, designed from the bottom up not an after thought like other hybrids. I still have my truck but I only drive it when I need to. I recommend this car to anyone who hates gassing up!

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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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  2007 Touring - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By TJ - December 12 - 7:56 pm

  Just purchased an original owner, 2007 Touring 22k miles, with Package 5. The OEM Bridgestone Turanzas were just about worn out and I replaced them with Michelin Primacys 195/55/16. There are not many tire options with the 16 inch wheels on the touring. Car handles great and is very quiet. Upgraded sound system with 9 speakers and XM is fantastic.