Toyota Prius V

2012 Toyota Prius v

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Shopping for a 2012 Toyota Prius V? MSRP: $26,550 - $30,140

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The Toyota Prius V is essentially a four-door wagon version of the Toyota Prius Liftback. While it retains the basic Prius formula, it expands it in every direction and is aimed at families who want to maximize their mileage but simply need more space. There are few alternatives that offer roughly the same shape, utility, or mileage, but the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, Mazda Mazda5, and Ford Escape Hybrid would be among the closest matches.

While the long-sloping 'kammback' hatchback design taken by the Toyota Prius since 2004 is aerodynamically superior, it simply won't work for everyone, as its low roofline at the back interferes with cargo capability. Enter the 2012 Toyota Prius V, which is very closely related, yet more spacious.

Compared to the Prius Liftback, the Prius V adds a somewhat higher (slightly more minivan-like) seating position, along with lots more cargo space—67.3 cubic feet, with the rear seats folded. The rear seats also slide fore and aft and recline, to optimize cargo space and legroom.

Just like the standard Prius, the Prius V comes with a 98-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motor-generators, managed through a planetary gearset and sophisticated electronic controls.

Overall, the Prius V drives much like the Prius Liftback, only it's somewhat more burdened by 300 pounds of additional weight, and those familiar with the Prius will feel that especially during acceleration from a standstill. Otherwise, the driving experience is very low-involvement, with light but precise steering, as well as the somewhat detached powertrain response that will feel familiar to Prius owners but a little off-putting at first to others. Ride quality is quite good, and practically minded parents will probably appreciate that the futuristic 'flying console' dash layout from the main Prius lineup has been replaced here with a more straightforward one.

The big payoff for the Prius V compared to other wagons or smaller minivans is of course fuel economy. Even though it's heavier and less aerodynamically smooth compared to the Prius Liftback, it manages 44 mpg city, 40 highway.

The Prius V, much like the Prius Liftback, is marketed in a way that can be a bit confusing. For 2012, Toyota Prius V Two, Prius V Three, and Prius V Five models are offered. The Two is the base model, while the Three adds Bluetooth, voice-activated navigation, and steering-wheel controls, plus navigation and a touch-screen system with Toyota's Entune infotainment interface. With the Five you step up to heated front seats, SofTex upholstery, LED headlamps, fog lamps, and upgraded wheels. An Advanced Technology Package adds dynamic radar cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and a garage-door opener.