For our family of four, the 2012 Prius v was a perfect fit; it gave us just enough space to stretch out, but not so much that we were left crying at the gas pump.
The v has three driving modes that are available with the push of a button: Power, Eco and EV. During my test drive, I kept it mostly in the Eco mode. When it came time to climb a hill or pass a slower car on the freeway, I would engage the Power mode. The availability of the different modes was convenient and an example of this wagon's versatility.
One of the most confusing aspects of this car is its name. The v stands for versatility, not the Roman numeral five. As if that wasn't convoluted enough, the trim levels are numbered. The Prius v Two is the base trim level and priced at $26,400. Take a step up to the Prius v Three and navigation and Toyota's new Entune multimedia system are added for the price of $27,165. The third and top trim level is the Prius v Five, which starts $29,990 and includes SofTex upholstery, also known as leatherette. My test car, a Prius v Five, cost $29,990.
EXTERIOR
While the 2012 Prius v looks a lot like its smaller sibling, the Prius, the body shape reminds me of the Mazda5, a mini-minivan. However, the v still retains its "I'm a hybrid" aerodynamic look.
The Prius v was designed with families in mind. Case in point: the small steps leading to the second-row seats. These three small steps are perfectly placed for the smaller, car-seat-riding crew. My 3-year-old daughter was thrilled when she opened the rear door to find her own personal staircase. Yes, the Prius v's step-in height is a tad higher than the regular Prius, but that made loading the littlest ones into their child-safety seats easier on my back.
The Prius v's shining star is the enormous cargo area. It has 58 percent more cargo space than the Prius. On our road trip in the Prius v, we were able to fit three suitcases, three backpacks, a diaper bag, a portable crib and a double jog stroller in the cargo area. In our 2008 Prius, our jog stroller takes up the entire cargo area.
The Prius V utilizes the same hybrid technology as the regular Prius. It's powered by a 98-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that's paired with an electric motor, making 80 hp. While it doesn't hit the Prius' EPA-estimated 51/48 mpg city/highway, the v does get 44/40 mpg, which is nothing to sneeze at.
SENSE AND STYLE
Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Excellent
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