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 joy to own, a joy to drive - 2006 Toyota Prius
  By wolfcrow - February 26 - 6:16 am

  It was a difficult decision to give up my beloved Lexus, but after watching Al Gores movie, we decided to put our money where our beliefs are.... We tested the available hybrids and chose the Prius for environmentally positive reasons, but were also seduced by the advanced technology, design, and other features. Although we havent had it very long, were completely happy with it; it was easy to start driving although we still have things to learn about the dps system and other advanced features. We went for the top of the line since we liked the add-ons, but friends are happy with the basic, as well.

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  My 05 Prius (3 Months & 800 Miles) - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Al Abanes - February 24 - 4:30 pm

  Not to picky on color, top notch finances got our Prius sooner. Zips through traffic, turn radius good, and easy to park. Urban, rural (2 lane hilly) and interstate milage 45-50 mpg. Cruise control good but goes out of range on down hills at times. Climate control excellent. Voice command system ok. Repeat commands necessary at times. Nav system usually gets you from point "A" to "B" but not necessarily by the shortest, safest route. Use common sense when traveling or planning route. Back seat uncomfortable on long trips. Front seat VG. Interior material will dirty up fast and cost in trade-in value. Prefer leather. Side air bags prevent use of full seat covers. I will buy another Prius.

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  I love my Prius! - 2011 Toyota Prius
  By Rob garfield - February 23 - 6:15 pm

  I leased my Prius new in 2011. I really loved the car. The gas mileage is great of course but so is the overall design. The radio, the interior, the electronics, the acceleration and quality. The only real complaint I have besides being run off the road on a regular basis would be the seat covering. I cannot understand why Toyota used a white crushed velour material to cover the interior with. I think I stained it on day two. Otherwise the car is a real feat of engineering. I put almost 50,000 miles on it without so much as a hiccup. Regular oil changes and routine maintenance was all it required. With the rear seats down I find the car can haul a great deal of things. I have had a hundred feet of 10 long conduit ( protect the dashboard!) I have had several hundred pounds of raw materials and other construction equipment in it without a problem. Its pretty comfortable on a long haul as well. Now that my lease is up, I will buy one.

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  Civic Hybrid vs. Prius - 2010 Toyota Prius
  By civictoprius - February 22 - 4:29 am

  Having traded in a 2005 Civic Hybrid after putting over 150,000 miles on it and have been driving Hondas for 20 years, I purchased a 2010 Prius II. The new versions of the Hybrid Civic can not come close in MPG. After having the Prius for months and 7000 miles I can report the Prius rides better, is more powerful (in regular and PWR mode) more stable on the road, quiter, and is more roomy. with at least 50 MPG commuting and carpooling over 130 miles per day. The late versions of this model only goes to 9 mph in EV mode and not 25 mph as advertised.

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  Toyota Prius never lets me down - 2005 Toyota Prius
  By Musikflier - February 21 - 9:46 pm

  Would you like at least 10 hours more free time per year? The time saved by not having to go to the gas station as often is worth the extra premium of having a Prius. The mileage is terrific (avg. 48 mpg in a hilly region), the ride is very quiet, and the bells and whistles are a joy to interact with. Burning less fuel is great for my wallet, my time, and eventually for the next generation.

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  Great Car - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Jack - February 21 - 10:20 am

  The Toyota Prius is the greatest car we have ever owned. We traded in a Ford Escape Hybrid and the Prius gets much better gas mileage and is much quieter and fun to drive. It has everything a Lexus has, for half the price. My wife was in a head-on crash that totaled our first Prius and it did a fantastic job protecting the everyone inside. The car was totaled.

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  Love this car! - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By deenao - February 18 - 2:00 am

  I have been very pleased with the performance and value of my Prius. Ive averaged 40 mpg driving only in the city, which is less than the estimate, but I expected that. Ive been especially pleased with the way it handled in the snow. And its sooooo quiet!

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  I love this car! - 2002 Toyota Prius
  By skippythetaxboy - February 17 - 6:50 am

  We now have 9000 miles on our Prius, and every time we get in it my wife and I still look at each other and say out loud, "I love this car!" Incredible build quality and zero problems after one year of ownership. Legendary "stealth mode"...still have fun freaking people out (usually bikers or joggers) by cruising by silently. Only one minor complaint...gas mileage really suffers in our cold winters. Sometimes the engine will turn on just to produce heat for the passenger compartment!

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  Great Car - 2009 Toyota Prius
  By Roger - February 16 - 9:50 am

  I have only owned the car for a week so Im still learning how to operate a high tech hybrid vehicle, I drove a similar size car for five years that rode, felt and sounded like a small car. The Prius drives like an upscale mid-sized sedan. Its quiet, comfortable, handles well, and has gotten over 50 mpg in city and highway driving the first week of operation. Fit and finish is outstanding. According to CR, reliability should be well above average. So far, Im very satisfied with the car. I was interested in waiting for the new 2010 model but was able to save thousands by purchasing one of the last of the 09s.

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  Great car! - 2007 Toyota Prius
  By Wes - February 15 - 3:30 pm

  This is our first new car in 7 years. Im a real techy, gadgety type of guy and absolutely love this vehicle. We are getting approx 44 mpg with less than 1000 miles on the car so far. Traded in a 2001 PT cruiser that got a whopping 18 mpg in the city. The gas bill is already much lighter. Plenty of room for the rear facing car seat, stroller, and a full weeks worth of groceries. Its true that the MFD actually makes you a more "speed aware" driver. I dont see any speeding tickets in my future. Im too busy trying to get 75+ mpg every 5 minutes. Highly recommend this car. Especially the touring edition. It definitely looks better than the base model.