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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  Its everything and more! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By jj - January 7 - 9:43 am

  Having not had a chance to test drive a Prius before I bought one, I didnt quite know what to expect, except great gas mileage. I was very pleasantly surprised all the way around. It has great pickup, maneuverability, it is fun to drive and loves to pass gas stations!

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  Best Car I have owned - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By geroge - January 7 - 2:00 am

  The Prius is an experience. I had been gett blaise about cars. This one I love. But it isnt about performance or interior comfort. It is about doing the right thing for our lungs, our country and the planet. Cut smog, reduce use of non-renewable resources, save money, and enjoy it.

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  1st Day - GREAT! - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By So-Cal Driver - January 5 - 7:50 pm

  My wife and I have only had our Prius for exactly 1 day! We did a TON of research and car shopping before we bought this car and I was skeptical at first, but it has definitely lived up to the hype. 46.7 mph on the first drive to work, clean, I love the silence when you stop at a light and during parking and backing up, acceleration is not a problem AT ALL! Coming from 93 Honda Accord this thing is a beauty. Enjoy your vehicle!

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  Gas mileage is "sick" - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By George - January 2 - 1:30 pm

  Trading in my Infiniti G35X "rocket ship" in on the Prius. Decided to go green and couldnt wait any longer for a plug-in hybrid. Mileage is ridiculous. Getting 72 MPG commuting to work! (mostly back roads). Highway mileage is averaging 65 MPG at 70 MPH. Have to force myself not to stare at the display as getting higher MPG gets to be a game with yourself. It is very comfy and the leather seats are top shelf. Fit and finish is excellent as you would expect in a Toyota. Bluetooth works great and the voice Nav is fun. Just say "Im hungry" and restaurants start populating the map. Ride is smooth and very quiet. AC is like ice.

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  My Silver 2009 Prius - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Chessie - January 2 - 2:23 am

  Ive had my 09 Prius for 2 weeks and 400 miles. Ive driven two round trips of 150 miles each and some city driving and have an average of 52.5 MPG so far. Ive read that the mileage goes up significantly after break in. Cant wait!! Feels like Im driving a concept vehicle. Displays and controls are easy to understand and use.

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  Pleasantly surprised - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By ss63 - January 1 - 10:53 am

  More room and acceleration than expected. Ride is good but not great. So far we like it a lot.

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  recommend to everyone - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Jalexa - December 31 - 9:53 pm

  My husband and I have crossed the USA from Georgia to British Columbia with 2 dogs and have found no problems with the car (round trip 2 times). The cost of fuel is minimal compared to the SUV I had before.

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  Toyota prius 2007 - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By prius - December 30 - 11:36 am

  Love this car, fast learning curve, very easy to park with back up video, plenty of spaces for things, 2 glove compartments, remote compartment, glasses compartment, 4 cup holders, external audio in to radio for cassette tape player or mp3 - love it, love it, love it!

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  Knock One Outta The Park - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By nha4233b - December 30 - 3:36 am

  Have had car for 1 month. Love it. I drive 40,000 miles per year commuting and needed a car that would save me on gas. Seat is comfortable for me (58"). Rear view is nice. Can haul when you need to merge on highways. Amazing how much room is in the inside of the car!!! Rear seat space is good.

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  30,000 miles later would I buy it again? - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Mark Fritzler - December 26 - 3:20 pm

  Absolutely!! No regrets. A very cool car.