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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  Be careful with fuel gauge! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Len Renfer - December 3 - 2:00 am

  MPGs very dependent on outside temperature and amount of hills you encounter. Surprisingly good amount of interior room and comfort. Only problem is the fuel gauge. Ive discovered that consistently when I have a flashing E signifying empty I still have a third of a tank left. The fuel tank capacity varies with temperature, can be as little over 9 gallons. Running out of gas is not good for this hybrid and the dealer had to recalibrate. Dealer has done nothing and Toyota headquarters states that they are "working on" problem

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  Somewhat Disappointed - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Gianni - December 3 - 2:00 am

  This is just a beautifully designed, comfortable, intriguing vehicle. But my feelings are overshadowed by one thing: the poor gas mileage. You may not feel the same. I think it depends on one thing: what is your PRIMARY purpose in buying the vehicle? Mine was fuel economy. So that was the essence of my bargain. I only got 34 mpg on the first two full tanks. On my third tank I am babying my driving to milk every last mile out of a gallon and looks like Ill get 40 mpg with total concentration on fuel economy. Bottom line: be mindful of the true gas mileage when you buy.

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  Best of the best - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By solidzeero - December 2 - 1:06 pm

  I am only 16 years of age and I Love this car. I have only put 1500 miles on the car so far so that is must likely the reason the millage is not that good. However, it has increased form 25mpg when i first got it. I am going to get new rims and make it look more sporty. i would recommend anyone this car who has a consience about the enviorment

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  Prius Rating - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By John - November 29 - 1:00 am

  A great car for driving and economy

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  Learning to Slow Down - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Vindicator - November 15 - 5:50 pm

  The car has never failed to please - except with the HVAC system and interface - which is clearly not up to the challenges of upstate NY in the winter. Stock tires leave a lot to be deired in traction and handling -get four snow tires from tirerack. Actual mileage has averaged out to 41.8 MPG. Trust me - your driving habits will change to accomodate the car. It appreciates speeds of =< 62 and is happiest with a commute lasting at least 20 minutes, particularly when the weather is colder than 40. It takes that long for the battery stack to come up to temp and effectively contribute to moving the car.

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  First Prius - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Ed Weissman - November 6 - 6:16 pm

  First hybrid owned. Amazing amount of interior space; most versatile small hatchback around. Interior fit and finish a little disappointing (large gaps on chrome trim on steering wheel) and the color matching on the hard plastic surfaces is peculiar. "heads up" display of steering wheel controls not particularly useful; soft control buttons annoying. Handles well for a car with 15" tires. Have noticed the braking issue on uneven surfaces, though. Getting 55+ mph combined mileage without driving abnormally.

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  Smooth - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By hondageek1 - November 1 - 12:11 am

  I read and heard alot about the prius mainly negative. The wife and i took a test drive and bought on the spot. It is quiet smooth and feels sturdy. The gas milage is heaven espicially with rising prices. Quite a techno machine but if two regular people over 50 can figure the car out anyone can.

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  Mostly Great, some problems - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Francis Degnin - October 29 - 1:13 am

  Mostly a love this car. I really wanted the plug in version, but decided it wasnt worth waiting. If you live somewhere with snow and ice, you should also be prepared to purchase very high quality winter tires--I recommended this to a friend of mine with Prius two years ago, it solved the problem of a light car on an icy hill. I have noticed the reported break problem twice in three months--even though it was supposed to be fixed. The bigger problem for me is a very high pitched whine which comes from the engine in warmer temperatures. The dealer wants to say its normal, but none of my friends with earlier models report it. Thats the only really annoying issue I have with the car.

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  Great car for college students - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Husky - October 20 - 10:30 am

  Got mine 2010 Prius II just before Xmas. Love the redesigned exterior. The interior plastics, not so much. EV/ECO/PWR modes are nice distractions. I now spend half as I used to at the pump.

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  Eco Car - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By ajkerry - October 20 - 10:00 am

  The Toyota Prius is my first economy car, and I would own no other. Also would not own it as my only car. But as a second car to use for work commutes, going to the store and other trips around town, you cant beat it. It is actually fun to drive and I am getting 45 mpg in the city, zipping along in left lane traffic. Due to its gas-electric hybrid nature, it is also extremely QUIET, which is a new trip all in itself and which makes driving it all the more fun.