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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  A Great Car to get use to Hybrids - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By JG - February 25 - 4:13 pm

  Overall, I must say this is an amazing car. I drove it almost across country, from Indiana to California, and I could not believe the milage I was getting on that small 11 gallon tank. I was driving with a Lexus RX 470 (the SUV) and we were filling up about the same time and it has 2x the tank size. The only draw back wa sin the mountains you battery is drained really fast and the engine cant handle the steep climbs by itself, but the Brake (B) feature on the gear shift was awesome. Instead of using my brakes alot, I just kicked that on and crused down the other side of the mountain. I also, discovered that if you want to see good mileage, rethink your driving habits, no fast starts.

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  Problematic - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By SoCaluser - February 25 - 2:00 am

  Weve owned lots of Toyotas and usually expect high reliability from the company. The 2001 Prius hasnt met that expectation. Our car has been the shop every couple of months with lots of problems including: tires wearing out, steering column noise, battery dying, mysterious engine stalls, electrical problems that disabled the radio and assorted other nagging things. Weve been quite surprise by the severity of the problems and the inability of Toyota to diagnose and fix them. Presumably, the newer version of the Prius have worked through the problems. But the 2001 was been a disappointment.

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  Pros & cons - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By dehaas5 - February 24 - 6:50 pm

  We just got in a head-on accident in our 2005 Prius. The cars "crumple zones" performed perfectly keeping the engine out of the interior, greatly reducing injuries. However, one of the rear seat belts did not "grab" sending my son flying into the back of the seat in front of him resulting in head injuries. Also, the gas mileage was never at 60 mpg as touted. Even with conservative driving (slightly letting off the gas) the best we could maintain was about 46 mpg. Also, the interier dash finish rubbed off easily and seats needed better fabric. Even with these flaws, we are considering re-buying, because other features worked great,it was very dependable and improvded exterior styling.

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  Happy with my Prius! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Randy - February 24 - 1:53 am

  The Prius was bought to replace a BMW 3 series wagon. Its a leap foward compared to the BMW. Things that I didnt think I needed in this car, like the display, has changed my driving and attitude. I now look at other drivers driving like I used to, and wonder what is the big rush. Its not like the Prius doesnt have enought power but it is not necessary to accelerate up to the car in front or to a red light. This kind of driving just isnt necessary and wasteful. Most of the time I am accelerating faster than most of the cars on the road to get to my cruising speed and cant understand articles critizing its power to accelerate fast enough. Try one and you will be a believer!

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  Excellent Car with Great Technology! - 2008 Toyota Prius
  By amerosola - February 22 - 4:36 pm

  I drive 100 miles a day, and I love watching to see what I am getting for MPG as I go. I also love all the high tech features that this car came with. I considered the Audi A3 first (I wanted a hatchback) but to get all the options I have now in the Audi I would have had to have spent $10K more. Not worth it for a little more wow factor and fun driving. I also love feeling so green.

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  New Prius a BIG Winner! - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Jim tuck - February 22 - 11:20 am

  You really want to buy it. The 2016 redesign makes it one of the best looking car on the road. It is a first class improvement over the old style. GAS MILAGE EXCEEDS THEIR ESTIMATES. I get 59/60 without trying. (They rate it at 54.)

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  Its Easy to be Green! - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By Mikey1951 - February 22 - 9:46 am

  Bought the car just before the hurricanes of 05, so great timing on our part and a stroke of luck. The car immediately did pretty heave road duty ferrying our son to travel soccer tournaments and games...most out-of- state or on the other side of the state. Love it! Rides well, road noise is minimal, has a bigger interior feel than our Mercury Sable, great mileage. Head room is great, cargo capacity is fine, good visibility.

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  Skeptic but won over - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By hillabeans - February 22 - 12:27 am

  I purchased a new 2011 Prius as they were clearing them out for the new year and have had it for a few months now. Having gone from a 2000 Toyota Echo I am amazed that even having a fuel efficient car before, this one is phenomenal. I started to nerd out watching what powers what on the dashboard screen and naturally am becoming a smooth driver. With the smart key I never take my keys out. The car will beep at you often until you get used to its logic. The inside is not the most luxurious but I could only afford the minimal options. I am very proud to own this car.

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  Ugly car runs well - 2016 Toyota Prius
  By Evan - February 20 - 4:23 pm

  The interior of this car is great, the dashboard has improved. The exterior rear light are ugly. The entire exterior rear end is ugly. The sea-glass green looks like a giant insect from the back.

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  From Zoom Zoom to Sip Sip... - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By moondog12 - February 20 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a 2009 Mazda 6, that I loved, for a 2011 Prius III. It darn near broke my heart to do so, but I did it because of my 70 mile + daily commute into the DC Area. I had a friend with a 2010 Prius and she couldnt recommend it enough, so I finally gave in and started calling dealerships once gas prices hit $3.50 a gallon. I got my Prius as an end of year special and I must say, Im impressed. While it certainly doenst Zoom Zoom like my last car, it has umph in Power Mode! Dont let the ho-hum of the hybrid nature fool you. These cars *can* be zippy. If youre on the fence, go to a dealership and test drive. After 10,000 miles I went from 45 mpg on average to 53! Fantastic!!