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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  6 Stars Anyone? - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Sonny - October 17 - 8:38 pm

  If there was an option for 6 stars for this specific vehicle, I would be the first to check that. I am a very picky individual and my taste in choosing my vehicles are very unique, in my opinion. First off, I highly prefer vehicles fully manufactured in Japan. Guess what? The Prius is one of them. Most importantly, Toyota has truly made a huge leap with their redesign on the new Prius. Yes, the exterior design gets a lot of heat and negativity, but if you have the courage to look past that and focus on the essence and beauty of the vehicle, it truly is an engineering marvel. The L.E.D lights - front and back - are state of the art and look like laser lights, especially from the rear. The interior is like Ive never seen before, and when I sit in, it feels so driver oriented - Im thinking Toyota has taken ideas from their sports car - the 86. The road holding and balance is so incredibly tight and smooth. The steering has so much richness and its very well weighted with an expensive feel. I opted for the version 3 since it seems to have the best value with its features - nav, L.E.D lights, lithium ion battery, 3 door smart entry, alloy wheels with two tone cover, Softex steering wheel, etc. The Prius is struggling to sell as of late - probably due to the low fuel prices, plus folks arent comfortable with the polarizing looks and are taking their time to get used to the latest design which represents the future. And so I took advantage of Toyotas incentives to push these vehicles. Got a fair deal with their 0% financing along with over $3k off the purchase with no trade. Ive owned nothing but sports cars in the past, and the latest Prius doesnt make me miss them whatsoever. Its packed with so much excitement if you know where to look and how to appreciate. Its only been 200 miles since my purchase, and this car is the very best one Ive experienced - and trust me, Im all about that experience.

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  Car of the Future Now - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By James O. Berkland - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Our 2001 Prius was a pleasant surprise on our initial test drive when it was a loaner while our Lexus was being serviced. Now my wife leaves the Lexus in the garage and we argue over who gets to drive the Prius. Day in and day out we average about 48 mpg, but occasionally get up to 54 mpg. Love the headroom, comfortable seats, quiet running and the CD sound system. At the Sonoma 4th of July parade in 2002 the 12 Prius cars won first place for the motorized division. In 2003 the 14 Prius cars took 2nd in the theme division, which was Pro-Environment.

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  Biggest, Cheapest, Efficient Car Yet! - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By clunyusa - October 16 - 10:00 am

  All around the Prius wins! A small footprint on the environment coupled with performance, interior room, including high seats and head room.

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  Number 1! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By nmpriusman - October 10 - 2:00 am

  For the price,the Prius buyer gets the most value for almost any car sold. The build quality is outstanding; there is not a flaw on the vehicle. Aside from that, everyone wants to know what the car is and they want to drive it. Im hoping to get a good 15- 20 years out of it. (No, the battery doesnt explode at 8 years or 100,000 miles because the warranty ends.) Like Toyotas chief Prius engineer said, "this is not just a great environmental car; this is great car, period."

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  117000 miles on my Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Barry - October 5 - 6:30 pm

  I have an 04 Prius with 117000 miles on it. In the earlier years I had all the problems with the car stalling or not wanting to keep going, but Toyota finally resolved those issues with software upgrades and recalls. For the past 3 years Ive had no problems. At 112000 miles I needed a new water pump, but otherwise Ive had no mechanical issues. The battery is fine. I drive exclusively on local roads, 40 miles each way to work, and get 48 mpg during the winter (New Hampshire winters are brutal) and am now getting 57 mpg in the Springtime. The car gets significantly less gas mileage if I only use it for short hops (5-10 miles) or if I drive on the highway.

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  Great Gas Mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Pat-Prius - October 4 - 3:43 am

  Gas savings depends on miles driven & driving style. The Prius multiples the benefits of the known gas saving tips. What I think is the best feature in the Prius is the display of what engine (electric or gas) is running, if the battery is charging, whatÂ’s your MPG all in real time. I play it like a video game and add up the points. Last summer I averaged 65 mpg for my 60 miles a day commute. Tips like slower speed driving saves gas, when IÂ’m driving under 40 mph IÂ’m using only the electric engine (unless going up hill). The display shows MPG used for slow steady starts vs 0 to 60 starts. Whenever I coast or go down hill the gas engine turns off & the battery starts changing, like making gas.

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  Great value minor improvements - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By mhamm - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Love the car after trading in an Infiniti G35 sports sedan with annoying interior rattles and high levels of road noise. Love the Prius technology and the build quality and the attention to ergonomics and details. Toyota had to make some trade-offs to offer this technology ladened mid-size car at an affordable price. I think they made the trade-offs well - lower than expected milage not withstanding. What car really meets its EPA ratings anyway? Granted the hybrid are a little more sensitive to driving styles, air temperature and passenger weight.

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  Gen III Loaded - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By SueBSails - October 3 - 5:36 am

  Had a 2006 - this 2010 is a totally different car in many ways. I have every possible extra (not LKA version) and not only is it comfortable, has 4 way seat adjustment, sun/moon roof and solar, but it also has lots more room than the 2006 had. The blizzard pearl paint never looks dirty, even after a spring thaw on country roads. It was worth the few extra $$ to get this level of comfort in a high mileage hybrid - and the 2006 trade-in held its value enough to make the upgrade costs minimal. What an upgrade!

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  good car with a few minor problems - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By ps - October 1 - 4:30 pm

  Overall a good practical car that I would purchase again. Gas mileage is greatly reduced in cold weather and on short trips. (motor need to warm up) Remove the rear center head rest so you can see better when backing up. Heater is not as powerful as with my other Toyota.

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  A car with life time gas coupon 50% off - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Allen - September 27 - 7:53 pm

  Just bought @104K for $8K, like new condition. Not a comfortable car like my 98 Lexus LS400, but I understand the compromise in order to achieve optimal MPG: stiff suspension, low roll resistance tire. My goal is to save money with 50+ MPG for 130 mile daily commute. I cant justify buying a new one for 3.5X price to save ONLY $1800/year on gas at $3/gallon. Performance better than I expected. Technology is truly impressive I am confident to drive it for another 5 years to 300K miles, if the battery OK. Heard many Prius at 200K miles, battery still fine.