New for 2012 is the latest incarnation of the legendary Toyota Prius hybrid hatchback, the Prius V midsize 5-seat wagon. The Prius V Two, the entry-level edition, sports some adult-size dimensions allowing for a utilitarian 67.3 cubic feet of total cargo room. This heftier hauler also gains the new styling and powertrain tweaks that have been incorporated into its venerable forbear. Standard 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and heated power-adjustable mirrors, meantime, adorn the outside, with cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, a fold-down front passenger seat, simulated alloy interior trim, full power accessories, and split-folding, reclining and sliding second-row seats inside. Cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering complement a trip computer with an integrated hybrid performance display, while a rear-view camera and Bluetooth hands-free calling are among this hefty hybrid’s tech features. Standard climate control, meantime, embraces the single-CD player with its 6 speakers, auxiliary iPod interface and USB connection.
Optional in the base Prius V Two is the Preferred Accessory Package with front and rear floor mats and cargo organizers, as well as remote engine start and Toyota’s VIP Plus security system.
Available only with front-wheel drive, the bulked-up Prius V Two packs a traditional 1.8-liter gas-burning inline 4-cylinder powerplant that mates with a pair of electric motors and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a total of 134 hp and 153 lb-ft of torque. Regenerative braking helps the four-banger keep the 650-volt nickel-metal hydride battery charged, while variable valve timing (VVT) and auto engine stop/start technology ensure class-leading mileage figures of 44 mpg city/40 highway. An increased rear axle ratio allows the Prius V Two to at least approach the acceleration alacrity of its progenitors, while a number of driver-selectable performance modes, Pwr, Eco and EV (electric-only) allow some added sportiness, fuel economy and up to 25 mph on all-electric power, respectively.
Safety-wise, noteworthy standard features aboard the 2012 Prius V Two include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags, front head restraint whiplash protection and a driver’s-side knee airbag, all part of the Japanese automaker’s Star Safety System.
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