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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  Surprisingly fun car to drive - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Peter - September 27 - 4:23 am

  So far, I’ve been driving it mostly on the highways and only get about 42 – 45 MPH on those trips. I haven’t been able to get to the 50 – 55 MPH range some of the other people reported. I mostly drive in the ECO mode. I know that it’s designed to get a better mileage in the city driving. I will be switching to city driving next month and will probably be able to achieve a better mileage. Some people complain about the continuous chime in reverse. The dealer can switch it of by modifying one of the settings of the car. I had my dealer do that before I picked my car up. The EV mode is not as useful as I thought it would be. Most of the time, I can only go up to 10 MPH in EV mode.

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  A stellar car - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By Dondoh - September 26 - 12:26 am

  I waited until I put on 2000 miles before reviewing as I was afraid my initial enthusiasm would cloud my judgment, but nothing has changed. This is a terrific, well-designed car. Many comments here lament the lack of power, but it scoots fast enough for me. In fact it feels MUCH faster than our 96 Civic - Love the CVT. So far I have been averaging over 51 MPG (calculated, over 53 mph displayed) and I have not been trying hard. I have a 12 mile commute with a suburban-highway-city mix. Toyota really thought out all the details. Everything is where it should be and form follows function well here. (ps. The reverse beep issue that others raise is easily solved for free at the dealer)

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  Mikes Review - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Mike Foreman - September 23 - 6:33 am

  My 2007 Prius has been a joy to drive. It has met my expectations & then some. I especially enjoy the dynamic brake that can be manually controlled to reduce the wear on the mechanical braking system & improve gas mileage.I hope to buy an all electric car someday, but in the mean time my Prius is my pride & joy.

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  Phenomenal Gas Mileage - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By M. Evans - September 21 - 8:13 am

  Gas mileage is not nearly what is displayed on the sticker... BUT 48 mpg in the city is not bad. Car is fun to drive and everyone asks about the vehicle and performance.

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  WHAT A CAR - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By MIKE G - September 20 - 2:00 am

  IF YOU NEED A COMMUTER VEH AND WANT TO SAVE SOME MONEY THEN THIS IS THE VEHICLE FOR YOU. ITS A MINI LEXUS. CLIMATE CONTROL, QUIET, FUN, AND CAN CRUISE AT 75. THERE IS JUST SO MUCH THAT YOU CANT SEE ON THE FIRST DRIVE. I STEADILY GET 47 MPG HWY AND CITY. I GO ALL WEEK WITH OUT FILLING UP. THE BACK SEAT CAN SEAT ADULTS AND BE COMFORTABLE. TRUNK IS LARGE. AND THIS CAR IS QUIET.I LOVE THIS CAR, I AM A BIG CAR GUY, BUT THIS FITS THE BILL FOR WORKING, I TRAVLE 30K MILES A YEAR AND NO PROBLEMS

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  Car of 2004 America & Car of 2005 EUROPE - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Puica C - September 18 - 7:46 pm

  Absolutely EXCELLENT! Car of 2004 in N America & Car of 2005 in Europe! YES! enjoy every minute driving this hi-tech jewel! (And other drivers peeping and pointing with their finger toward my new Prius!) Coming from Toyota RAV4, I found turning visibility a little obstructed by bottom corners of the front windshield. Also too bad those Edmund editors forget that Prius is a midsize sedan and comes with full side airbags …. (!) – HM! Why is that? Where is the verticality and credibility of Edmunds.com? Should I contact the Better Business Bureau or the managers?

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  Jacks update - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By Jack Harris - September 18 - 10:00 am

  Just returned from a 4200 mile trip to TX and rtn to CA. Traveled Rte I-40, altitude 7334 plus, on problems. averaged 45 MPG for the trip driving 70 - 75 MPH.

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  Toyota Prius evaluation - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Gordo - September 17 - 4:30 am

  Best vehicle I have ever owned!! Terrific gas mileage, handles well and is comfortable on long or short trips.

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  prius - 2003 Toyota Prius
  By pivocome - September 15 - 2:00 am

  excellent gas mileage and a very smooth ride. excellent interior and extreamly low emissions. I love this car. it rewards all of the proper driving techniques that everyone should follow. slow starts and slow stops, perfect.

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  Ten years ahead of the competition. Prius - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By SunPoweredPrius - September 12 - 6:36 pm

  This is the most technologically advanced car mass produced today. We love our car. We average anywhere from 45 to 80 miles per gallon depending on how we drive the car. Very reliable, means weve never had a problem with our car. I give this car the highest rating but Im still waiting for Toyota, to release the Prius that gets 100 miles per gallon. I want more miles per gallon Toyota. When?