Used Toyota Prius Hatchback 2003 - 2009 review

What's the used Toyota Prius like?

The second-generation Prius is more practical with the four-door saloon body of the previous car ditched in favour of this five-door hatchback. True, the boot is not massive, but it can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. And, when those seats are upright, they provide plenty of room for six footers.

As with the previous Prius, you can go green without having to make any sacrifices. The car's low emissions will help you do your bit for the environment and the hybrid electric/petrol powerplant is easy to live with.

Overview

Proves that going green doesn't have to be dull

Pros

• Safe, practical family car with high-tech interior and low emissions

Cons

• You'll struggle to match the claimed mpg

Used cars available now

In partnership with

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£2,290

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T4 CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£2,375

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T3 CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£2,699

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£2,990

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£2,995

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T3 CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£3,595

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£3,795

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£3,899

Toyota Prius

1.8 VVT-h T Spirit CVT Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

£3,990

See all available cars

The performance is lively enough and fine on A-roads. Unlike its predecessor, this Prius copes well enough with motorway hills, and the ride and handling are on a par with conventional-engined rivals.

Inside, it's all suitably high-tech, which some people will love, but others may take a while to figure out. For instance, there are a total of 16 controls for the stereo, air-con and other functions on the steering wheel.

Our recommendations

Which used Toyota Prius should I buy?

There are three diferent trim levels to choose from, and even the base T3 comes with excellent safety kit. Eight airbags are standard, as are anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and Toyota's vehicle stability control. Climate control, all-round electric windows, a CD player and electric windows are also part of the standard package.

Step up to T4 and you get cruise control, front foglamps and a six-disc CD autochanger. The T-Spirit is the top version and gets a sophisticated sat-nav system complete with voice control and a Bluetooth interface to hook up to your mobile phone.

We'd go for the entry-level spec. The used car section of your local dealer is a good place to start looking.