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2001 Toyota Prius Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.25
Based on 12 Owner Reviews â–¶
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Toyota Prius, a groundbreaking vehicle, was among the first mass-produced hybrid cars. It's a compact, four-door sedan, and the 2001 model was part of the first generation (2001-2003 in the US). There was essentially one trim level. New pricing was around $20,000. Its popularity stemmed from its exceptional fuel economy, futuristic design, and pioneering hybrid technology, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.
The Good

The 2001 Prius offered excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking to save money on gas. Its hybrid technology and unique design gave owners a feeling of contributing to a greener future, fulfilling an emotional desire. Toyota's reputation for reliability added to its appeal, despite its modest performance and comfort compared to conventional cars.

The Bad

The 2001 Prius's weaknesses include its relatively slow acceleration and somewhat unrefined ride. The early hybrid battery technology had a limited lifespan, and battery replacements could be costly. Also, the regenerative braking system can feel unusual to some drivers, and early models had some issues with inverter failures.

2001 Toyota Prius: Quick Overview

Here's a bullet-point summary of the 2001 Toyota Prius's key specs:

  • Engine: 1.5L Inline-4 gasoline engine with Toyota Hybrid System (THS)
  • Horsepower: Total system output of 72 horsepower (engine and electric motor combined)
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 52 mpg city / 45 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
  • 0-60 mph: Around 12-13 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
  • Trim Levels: Essentially one trim level, but options could be added.
    • Standard Features: Automatic climate control, power windows and locks, AM/FM radio with CD player, keyless entry.
    • Available Options: Side airbags, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels.
    • Safety Features: Driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS).
    • Hybrid System: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, regenerative braking. The hybrid system allowed the car to run on electric power at low speeds, increasing efficiency. The car used a CVT transmission.

The interior, while functional, was made of relatively basic materials. Space was decent for a compact car. The Prius was a trailblazer regarding information displays showing real-time energy consumption.

2001 Toyota Prius Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Toyota
Model Prius
Trim -
Style -
Type Hatchback
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Japan
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.5L L4
Engine Size 1.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2001 Toyota Prius Have?

The 2001 Toyota Prius, being an early hybrid, had some frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. One of the most significant issues was the lifespan of the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. These batteries degrade over time, leading to reduced fuel economy and eventual failure, requiring a costly replacement. Inverter failures were also a concern, potentially causing the car to stall.
Regenerative braking systems sometimes experienced issues. There were recalls related to software updates for the hybrid system. Some owners reported issues with the combination meter (instrument cluster) failing.
Other commonly reported problems included issues with the mass airflow sensor and occasional problems with the engine control unit (ECU). Early models also had issues related to cold weather performance affecting battery performance and causing slow starts. The model years 2001-2003 shared similar weaknesses as they were part of the same generation. Regular maintenance, especially fluid changes for the hybrid system components, was critical to mitigate these issues.

How long will the 2001 Toyota Prius last?

With proper maintenance, a 2001 Toyota Prius could reach 200,000 miles or more. However, the lifespan heavily depends on battery care. Owners who diligently performed scheduled maintenance, including hybrid system checks and fluid changes, likely saw longer lifespans.
Long-term weaknesses primarily revolve around the battery's degradation and potential failure. Suspension components and brake systems may also require attention after years of use. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Toyota Prius had relatively limited tech and entertainment features compared to modern cars. Standard features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player and automatic climate control. One notable feature was the Energy Monitor display, which showed real-time energy flow between the engine, electric motor, and battery.
There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking.
Safety features included driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were available as an option.
The 2001 Prius did not have a wealth of high-tech features. Features like navigation, touchscreen infotainment, and smartphone integration were not available. It did offer a glimpse into the future of automotive technology with its hybrid system and energy monitoring display.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are available for the 2001 Prius. While not exceptional by today's standards, they were generally acceptable for its class and era.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Alpine Silver Metallic
Tidal Wave Blue Metallic
Black
Sierra Beige Metallic
Interior Colors
Gray

2001 Toyota Prius Prices and Market Value

The 2001 Toyota Prius had a starting price of around $20,000 when new. Today, used market prices are significantly lower, ranging from a few thousand dollars to possibly under $5,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location.
Depreciation has been substantial due to age, wear and tear, and advancements in hybrid technology. The biggest factor affecting resale value is the condition of the hybrid battery. A failing or degraded battery will severely reduce the car's value. High mileage and cosmetic issues also contribute to lower resale prices.

2001 Toyota Prius Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2001 Toyota Prius are typically lower than average due to its age and value. Fuel costs are very low due to its exceptional fuel economy. However, maintenance and repair costs can be unpredictable. Replacing the hybrid battery can be a major expense. While routine maintenance is generally affordable, specialized hybrid system repairs can be costly. Overall, long-term ownership can be economical if the battery is in good condition, but potential battery replacement costs should be factored in.

2001 Toyota Prius Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2001 Toyota Prius Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2001 Toyota Prius Recalls & Defects

Steering:gear BOX (Other Than Rack and Pinion)
Recall date 2000-09-21
Recall no. 00v285000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Insufficient Electrical Contact CAN Occur IN THE Torque Sensor That Controls THE Power Assist Operation OF THE Electric Power Steering Gear Box. THE Torque Sensor Could Send Improper Electrical Signals.
Consequence IF This Occurs, THE Power Steering Warning Icon Will BE Displayed ON THE Center Panel, and THE Driver Could Experience Higher Than Normal Steering Effort Depending Upon Vehicle Speed.
Remedy Dealers Will Repair THE Electric Steering Gear Box.
Notes Owner Notification Began October 27, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2006-07-19
Recall no. 06v266000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, DUE TO Improper Molding OF THE Resin Body OF THE Crankshaft Position Senor Installed ON THE Engine Block, Engine OIL MAY Penetrate THE Seal and Enter THE Sensor Wiring Connector. THE Wire Harness Connector MAY NOT BE Sufficiently Attached TO THE Locking TAB OF THE Sensor Wiring Connector.
Consequence Engine OIL Inside THE Sensor Wiring Connector Could Cause Expansion DUE TO THE Heat OF THE Engine and Could Deform THE Sensor Wiring Connector. THE Connector MAY Become Disconnected, Which Could Cause THE Engine TO Stall While Driving and NOT BE Able TO BE Restarted Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Crankshaft Position Sensor Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 26, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Toyota Recall NO. SSC 60g.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:electric Power Assist System
Recall date 2011-06-01
Recall no. 11v304000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2001 Through 2003 Prius Passenger Cars Manufactured From January 28, 2000, Through MAY 30, 2003. THE Steering Linkage MAY Loosen, Resulting IN Reduced Electric Steering Assistance When Making A Left Turn.
Consequence Loss OF Power Steering, Particularly When AN Operator IS Actively Intending TO Steer THE Vehicle, MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Replace THE Nuts IN THE Steering Linkage Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 8, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

2001 Toyota Prius Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Toyota Prius is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Toyota Prius Compare to Other Hatchback?

The 2001 Toyota Prius was a unique offering with few direct rivals in its class at the time. Compared to traditional compact cars like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla of the same year, the Prius offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The Civic and Corolla were more engaging to drive and had proven track records for reliability (excluding the Prius's hybrid components).
Features-wise, the Prius was comparable to other compact cars but lacked advanced tech. In terms of price, the Prius was initially more expensive than its gasoline-powered counterparts.
Today, a 2001 Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be a better alternative for buyers prioritizing reliability and lower maintenance costs. Later model year Prius cars (2nd generation and newer) addressed many of the first generation's shortcomings, offering improved performance, battery technology, and reliability, making them a superior choice if considering a used hybrid. If fuel economy isn't the primary concern, a conventional compact car from the same era would likely be a more practical choice. Also, hybrids from Honda (Insight) are good comparisons as well.

Ranks #176 Sedan

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5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
176 2001 Toyota Prius (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Toyota Prius a Good Hatchback?

The 2001 Toyota Prius is a historical vehicle, best suited for someone interested in early hybrid technology or a very budget-conscious buyer willing to accept its limitations. It's generally not worth buying unless it's exceptionally cheap and the battery is verified to be in good condition.
Avoid if you need strong performance or modern features. A pre-purchase inspection by a hybrid specialist is crucial. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history, especially regarding the hybrid system. Given the age and potential maintenance costs, newer used hybrids or efficient gasoline cars are often a more sensible choice.

2001 Toyota Prius Owner Reviews

4.25
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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alternative fuel fan on September 17, 2012

Can't beat 40 mpg in this economy

Love the Prius. Travel more now than ever before on the same money. Seats 5 and has all the power we need. Plenty of cabin and trunk space. Awesome.

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Computer Enthusiast on July 3, 2012

Great MPG and Money Saver

My 200,000 mile Prius has an average of 31 MPG over the 200+ I have driven. Can easily get 50 MPG on the highway. Tip: Avoid buying new hybrid batteries from a dealership. Refurbished are cheaper and can have a 3 year warranty (longer than a new batt). The hole I care about it isn't in the ozone, it's in my wallet.

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usnavystgc on November 10, 2011

Great car. Excellent overall value

Purchased an 01 in Jun of 09 with 86K miles. I was initially concerned about that but, after two years of driving it with virtually no issues, I have grown to respect the reliability and unique value these cars provide. Avg fuel economy is about 40 mpg in all types of driving. It is amazingly easy to service. Highly recommended.

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Prius Driver w/ One Battery Failure on February 1, 2010

Great car, I've gone through one battery

Performance, reliability, and driving are excellent. I have a cute spoiler and a couple small racing stripes that make the car look sporty. It's a quiet car. I love it! Of note: I experienced battery failure at 79,600 miles and after about 8 years of driving in Mesa, Arizona. The car began to lose power and the brake would come on automatically and at random times while I drove. I'd have to pull over, turn the car off, and then on for the auto brake to shut off and allow me to drive again. I took my car into the local toyota dealer and they said my battery was dying. Fortunately the battery was replaced under warranty (warranty was up at 80,000 miles or 8 year so I barely was under warranty) without cost to me. The car is running in excellent condition once again. I average 50 miles to the gallon. It lacks power up steep hills and accelerating onto the freeway, but I don't mind, it's saving me money in gas. Also, it takes a little while to get used to the brakes, just stop a little before you should brake until you are used to them. When I drive this car I feel safe and know that it will be reliable. I would highly recommend this car to anyone. One word of advice: save up enough money to replace a battery (if needed) in advance and enjoy the ride.

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A Prius Person on February 14, 2009

A dependable automobile

This generation Prius established the hybrid as a dependable automobile. Toyota, and its dealers in general, provided excellent service throughout the warranty period. While other auto manufacturers are finially building hybrids, Toyota now has a 10-year headstart.

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m on February 8, 2009

nothin but trouble

i bought this car brand new and it was a great car for about 2 yeaars. Once it hit the two year mark i have had nothing but trouble with the brakes, alighnment, tires not lasting long, enigine trouble twice now, and well just the overall fell of a good rreliable toyota.

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Euonymous on January 4, 2009

I love my Prius

I bought a 2001 Prius in April 2001 when my Saab 900s blew a headgasket. The Prius has great headroom, is comfortable, and has great visibility. It took a while to get used to not having a big engine stretching out ahead of me, but now I'm ok with that. In 2001 there was no cruise control factory option, although there is now. That was the only feature I wanted that wasn't available. I had wanted a fuel cell car, but nothing was available then. Oh, wait, there's STILL nothing like that available. (&$*!) Fit and finish are excellent (that ruled out the PT Cruiser). I bought the extended warranty although that goes against my cardinal rule about wasting money, but it supported another cardinal rule about not buying the first production or introduction year of ANYTHING. Pleased to say the warranty was not needed. The big battery has never been a problem. No real problems with the car. After a year or two I bought a new set of tires and immediately thereafter got a recall notice from Toyota on the tires. They replaced all 4 and repaid me for what I had spent on the new tires. I thought that was admirable. So, FYI, Toyota feels strongly about the tires you use with the Prius. Only use of the extended warranty was due to a torrentially raining day, parked in a deep puddle in restaurant parking lot and shorted the 12 volt battery. Toyota replaced it, otherwise it would have been $212 for a 12 V battery !!! (By the way, Uncle Pete's Hickory Ribs in Revere... pulled pork to die for.) My dealer has slimy sales people but an excellent service department, so I still use them. At 90K miles I'm getting about 45 mpg on mostly highway driving. I take good care of it, but my only add-on to the car was some matching-color, vertical, door side guards. Only got white because it was available immediately, otherwise would prefer the metallic light green. The brakes and acceleration are a bit funky, but I'm used to it and it's ok with my driving style. Love the car. Highly recommended. Will probably buy a new Prius if a fuel cell car isn't available when this one dies.

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Oscar on November 2, 2008

very good car no major problems in 130,000+ miles,

Bought new in 2001 and no problems with any part of vehicle. Seems to be hard on tires as I am on my 4th set in 130,000+ miles. I am still geting good milelage 45 to 52mpg consistingly.I am still on the same set of brakes and the original 12v battery. Have not had any problems with the hybrid batteries or system. I will definitely buy another one if this one wears out.

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alternative fuel fan on September 17, 2012

Can't beat 40 mpg in this economy

Love the Prius. Travel more now than ever before on the same money. Seats 5 and has all the power we need. Plenty of cabin and trunk space. Awesome.

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Computer Enthusiast on July 3, 2012

Great MPG and Money Saver

My 200,000 mile Prius has an average of 31 MPG over the 200+ I have driven. Can easily get 50 MPG on the highway. Tip: Avoid buying new hybrid batteries from a dealership. Refurbished are cheaper and can have a 3 year warranty (longer than a new batt). The hole I care about it isn't in the ozone, it's in my wallet.

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.