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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  Happy Greener - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By HappyGreener - December 25 - 9:26 pm

  Ive never loved a car like I love my Prius. Not only is it comfortable for the entire family (two adults, three kids and two dogs), but it also handles beautifully. Im convinced we dont need all the oil weve become so dependent upon, and it feels GREAT to put my money where my mouth is. The Prius is my way of contributing to a cleaner, less politically divisive world and enjoying the ride along the way. Only thing is, I average 50 mpg, not the 60 that they promise. Am I complaining? Not after driving my other cars and averaging 17 mpg! Get one. Youll never look back.

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  2005 Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By M Ward - December 25 - 6:06 pm

  Current gas milage: city 46, highway 51. Surprisingly comfortable. Easy drive and maneuverability. Good interior storage & glove boxes. Too much road noise unless all windows closed. Looking forward to seeing how hybrid evolve. Would buy this vehicle again (even tho is ugly). This is a one or two person car, 3 or 4 OK persons for short trips. Rear visibility poor. Would like more luggage room for long trips. Cruise, light and wiper controls need impovements--awkward to use. *Please note: reliability of vehicle unknown to me now. Will make judgement after longer ownership. Marked survey with a 5 because of unknowns.

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  2010 Prius is superb! - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By norther4ests - December 24 - 9:23 am

  The fuel economy is better than advertised, at least this summer during the first 3000 miles. I have been averaging 56.2 mpg, and this car makes you really think and re-learn better driving habits. The interior is roomy; headroom is fantastic! I have no regrets. It is a fun car to drive. When given the choice of driving our Camry or the Prius, I always take the Prius.

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  Gas up and pay - less - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By JK Liu - December 22 - 10:00 am

  There is a reason why there is a 6 month wait for this car. It has exceeded all my expectations in performance, comfort, convenience, consumption. If you want to half your trips to the gas station, and half the bills everytime. This is the car to get! I will trade-in my other car, an SUV for a hybrid SUV as soon as possible.

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  Waited 9 months to get, and was worth it - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By larry ganoung - December 22 - 10:00 am

  Least gas milage 37.5, 42.4, 47.5,50/s to 60/s up to 68.8 Best gas milage, and this includes highway and hills. Speed up to 70,71,72,73,74+, you think you are doing 40 or 50, it is so smooth and quiet, you have to watch your speed. the first day I drove it, I was on 70 mile speed limit, interstate, and did not know how to operate cruise and did not want to go over 45 or 50 with a new car. Later on interstate, My wife said you are doing 70, later she said you are doing 75, and later she said you are now doing 81. I would not normally, go over 70 to 74 or 75 max. The speed limit is 70. I defintly learned how to use the cruise control. It has the best map system, and easily seats 4 people

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  Not one regret - 2004 Toyota Prius
  By klid - December 21 - 11:36 am

  Best decision I have made in awhile. It will take a few months to internalize the new driving methods for best fuel efficiency. Otherwise, this is like driving any other car.

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  Great Car - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By Pat BROWN - December 19 - 2:24 am

  Driving a Prius for the last 8 years. Its great for fuel economy and maintenance. I highly recommend it.

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  Best car I have owned. - 2001 Toyota Prius
  By JR - December 18 - 12:36 am

  I bought one of the first Prius cars in the Seattle area. It has been an outstanding car, very reliable and extremely fuel efficient. I have had no serious problems with this car and have it routinely serviced at a Toyota dealership. This first generation Prius fits 4 adults easily and can take my family of 4 and their luggage on a week long road trip. Gas mileage ranges from the low 40s in stop and go traffic to the high 40s on long highway trips. This car is still going strong and I plan to give it to my now 16 yo daughter in a year or two.

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  Prius or Civic Hybrid or a Honda Insight ? - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By fyler - December 17 - 6:02 am

  If you reading this, chances are, you are considering a hybrid and you are torn between a Prius, Civic Hybrid and a Honda Insight. Get the Prius. I used to be a Civic Hybrid and an Insight owner, the Honda IMA hybrid system is the worst and their MPG sucks. Before I get my Prius I owned a 2001 Insight (IMA light showed up at 78K mile), I also tried 2005, 2006 and 2008 Civic Hybrid and the MPG was 38 MPG at the best and again IMA battery issues before 100K miles. The 2008 Civic Hybrid interiors are comfier than the Prius (at least for me) but the space on the Prius is awesome if you haul stuff.The Prius Hybrid system is VERY reliable. The Prius is similar to a Camry or an Accord.

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  Prius - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Jim Pepper - December 16 - 4:03 pm

  Great little car. Well built and surprising performance. Lots of room for passengers and luggage. No flaws yet