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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  Love it for what it is - No regrets! - 2012 Toyota Prius
  By boeserkritiker - April 3 - 5:47 pm

  The seat fabric is cheap. Not sure how it will hold up. The clove box seems to rattle a little sometimes. But other than that it seems like a fine built car and a great deal for what you get and being a hybrid. Paid 23k OTD. Average 56.5 miles per computer, calculated 2 miles less. I accelerate and slow down smoothly and stick to speed limit. Its not a sports car but I love it for what it is. It should be cheaper in the long run than another compact car if the hybrid system doesnt cause additional expensive repairs and comes with more features. The off-center gauge cluster doesnt bother me. the speed, etc is actually easier to read being much higher up than standard clusters.

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  Car of the Future - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By wEndy - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I love that I am saving gasoline and helping to lower Americas dependence on foreign oil. I love that I am driving and polluting less. This car has it all! It is affordable, fun to drive, handles well, has lots of room inside and gets amazing gas mileage.

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  Owning one - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Airpro2001 - April 2 - 2:20 am

  I really love driving my new prius for many reasons, the head room is great for us tall people. The acceleration is fast and I particularly like passing up all the gas stations! I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  2007 Toyota Prius - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Glenn - March 31 - 4:26 am

  I love driving this car. It gets great mileage between 41 and 49 mpg. Its cargo room is enourmous. It can carry four adults comfortably over a long distance. Its ride is nice and people definitely notice it. No one is not impressed with it once introduced to it. Its hard to imagine going back to conventional driving.

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  Never thought Id get one... - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By peterfletcher - March 26 - 1:09 am

  Honestly, Ive had over 70+ vehicles since I was 16 years old and never thought Id get a Prius of all things! Leased it for work and already its paying for itself. Pay half at the pump and going twice as far. At the gas station is where this car makes the most sense. I also realize why Prius drivers are so annoying to be behind.. its because they are trying to keep in ECO mode all the time! I just drive it like a regular car and Im still getting 44 mpg with mixed driving. I am 62" and 238 lbs., so the seat was not made for me. I had to go to an upholstery shop to build up the seat bottom foam and side bolsters. Much much better afterward and no more neck pain. Crummy seats, but great car.

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  30,000 Update - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By okedoke - March 24 - 8:10 pm

  Just hit 30K. Car running strong, developed rattle in front dash, fixed by dealer. Had Toyota service per manual, plus alignment, replaced OEM tires with Fuzion HRIs. These tires make a big difference in handling, the car now sticks like never before. As of this writing, the best car I have ever owned. Avg MPG in summer 48-50, avg fall through spring 42-44. Change oil @ 10K intervals, use Mobil Full syn 15K rated oil. Oil is still pretty clean at 10K, and still shows 100% full on the dipstick as it did when filled at the last change. Engine seems nice and tight after 30K. If they keep building them this way, Ill be getting another when time is due. Solid car!!

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  Prius rocks! - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By whoosit - March 24 - 10:00 am

  more than adequate accel, surprisingly roomy, unbelievable fuel economy, smooth regen braking, seamless transitions between engines, toyotas really put it all together this time

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  Prius performance - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By prius - March 21 - 3:00 am

  The car is great to drive, nice looking and very comfortable. Seats 5 easily even very tall people. I am not as thrilled with the gas consumption as I had hoped. When I bought the car I was led to believe I would get great mileage. It says 50-60 mpg in the ads and in the booklet and I am getting 44-45 and a range of a bit over 350 miles per tank . They should change the ratings and give the consumer better information.

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  Down the highway - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Golf Man - March 17 - 3:56 am

  Purchased vehicle for travel and good mileage also for hauling items with back seat down. Our first trip to Florida with approx. 4200 miles on it the dash cluster that includes the speedometer gas gauge and the shifter burnt out so we drove the last 500 miles to Jacksonville sort of in the dark. We had the vehicle repaired at a dealer in Jacksonville they had it for 4 days the dealership was very nice. My Question is has anyone else had this problem with their vehicle? Our dealership in Col. Ohio said there wasnt any tech. advisories on this problem that we experienced so Im just curious if we are alone out there. Thanks

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  New Prius is better than ever - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Carl Harrington - March 15 - 4:57 pm

  We had a 2008 Prius. Just got a 2016 Prius 3 with the advanced technology package. Great mileage so far (55+). Navigation system is much improved and allows access to traffic via apps. Moon roof is cool. The car even grades you on how fuel efficient your driving was after each trip. Only 1 glove compartment and its smaller. Back seat room seems less. Overall, a great car.