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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  Best Car Ever! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Anne - August 6 - 1:46 am

  While fuel economy has always been a priority to us, weve never before found this kind of fuel economy (WOW!), convenience and comfort (luxury for us), AND "sports car look/feel" along with a comfortable "get-in and get-out" (for our back ease). All of this, plus the "get up and go without hesitation" when needed...a perfect car in our book!!

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  hooray for the automotive future - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By HYTECHLVR - August 5 - 10:30 pm

  Love this car. Mileage was a little shaky back in February of 04 at purchase but once I completed the learning curve on this car I was able to attain 54.4 mpg by summer and maintain a great mpg through the brutal winter months. Ive learned cold temps and hilly terrain has a dramatic effect on mpg but as long as one has an understanding of that fact the Prius is a car that more than meets expectations in daily driving.The Prius is its own car and not an existing car on the market that just happens to get better gas mileage.That fact alone makes the price I paid valid and fullfilling on a personal level to know im on the cusp of automotive progression.Toyota hit an unexpected homerun!!!

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  Holy Crap! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Sapper - August 5 - 11:36 am

  I just moved to El Paso. My work commute is about 60 miles round trip daily. Needless to say my old car was killing me. I read up on the Prius. I have read comments that they do not live up to the EPA standards of 51 and 60 mpg. I can tell you this, part of that is based on the type of area you drive and how you drive. Most people who are complaining about bad mileage numbers are not driving the prius to maximise the fuel economy. You need to use cruise control as much as possible. Set it for 55 mph to get the most mileage and still get where your going. Use "pulse and glide" in the city!

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  Read Reviews-Bought Car - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By NSparks - August 5 - 11:23 am

  After reading all the reviews for the Prius, I finally test drove it. Did I mention I loved it? I had to go 1 hour out of my way to get the car I wanted (right away) but it was well worth it. Interior is roomy for its size, and I feel comfortable, which is saying a lot since I just downgraded from a minivan. It seats two full carseats comfortably and rides smoothly. It works great for my commute to work, and is fun to drive (I got the BC-pkg 6).

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  Love it! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Caryn - August 5 - 4:26 am

  I have loved every minute driving my Prius. It looks great, handles great, is fun to drive. It took no time at all to get used to the controls. Getting used to driving it in snow took a bit longer - have to be very gentle with the gas pedal, but once I got the hang of it, I have no complaints, especially at the gas pump. The technicians when I had my first oil change were enchanted with it!

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  Does everyone here only drive downhill? - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By Mitch - August 2 - 3:03 pm

  Not sure how anyone here is getting these crazy gas mileage numbers. I havent even hit 40 MPG. I have even given up my lead foot and try to keep it at or below 70 on the freeway which is about 15-20 mph less than Im used to driving. The ride is adequate for a small car, but that rear window split design is not getting easier to accept even with time. I just dont see how I can possibly increase the mileage to justify the cost of a car like this. At least in my case, I should have bought a cheap car like a Corolla or Civic getting 32 mpg or just go back to my much better performing and useful Pathfinder and just suck it up... literally. Maybe Ill sell both and buy the Lexus GS450h!!!

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  gas saver, so quiet - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Rita - August 1 - 11:11 pm

  It makes me love driving even with the heavy traffic. It is so smooth and quiet. I only do not like the white cup holders.

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  Saving Gas - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Paul - July 28 - 2:50 pm

  I love everything about it, and only wish I had gotten the fully loaded package with GPS and BlueTooth. I drive about 90% highway (70-80 mph), 10% city. Initially, I was getting only about 43-45 mpg, but the past year has taught me to improve my driving habits in several ways -- most notably, not racing to take advantage of a passing slot. (My driving habits are still a bit overenthusiastic, but less so than before, especially after my insurance company decided that three speeding tickets in three years was a Bad Thing.) The interior is comfortable even for a big guy like me (62", 215 lb, long legs). Plenty of comfort and sufficient oomph even when transporting four ample adults.

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  Prius is the best - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By mjsuss - July 28 - 1:10 am

  This car is fun to look at inside and out. The mileage is terrific and it is great knowing how "clean" the car is. I especially love watching the mileage gauge when it indicates that absolutely no gasoline is being used, that all the power is coming from the battery. The smart key is a pleasure, not having to use a key to open the doors or start the ingnition. The radio and CD player are high quality. The transmission lever is a hoot -- passengers cant believe thats the whole thing. The infinitely variable transmission gives a smooth ride.

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  Fantastic Vehicle - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By 100% Satisfied - July 27 - 11:30 pm

  With the level six package, this car is a lot of fun to drive and exceeds all my performance expectations. I drive 70 miles per day to and from work so gas bills were becoming significant with my previous Avalon. On the highway, I get around 50 miles per gallon when using 93 octane gas. I now fill up once per week with 9-10 gallons of gas. The interior feels the same size as a Camry. Theres plenty of room in the front and back seat. The accessories are great. Level six includes GPS and I use it in my trips out of town. I doubt Ill ever have another car without GPS. In fact, I will probably stay with Hybrids from now on. Pick-up is just as good as the Avalon and Camry.