"Hey Kids, Load up the...Prius?"

While the Prius is arguably the most popular hybrid vehicle on the market, many prospective buyers were turned off because the hatchback simply did not have enough loading space. However Toyota’s 2012 model of the Prius (known as the Prius V) offers buyers a taller wagon version of the hybrid that has more cargo capacity than most crossover vehicles and small SUVs.

Improvements in Design: While the Prius V is 16% less fuel efficient than the Prius liftback, the trade off is that it offers a structure that is 6 inches longer, 3 inches taller and an inch wider with a wheelbase that is 3 inches longer than the standard Prius. This gives a lot of extra space from models past (which is an improvement that former Prius complainants will love). While the Prius V put on an additional 230 pounds of weight and is 16% less fuel efficient, it now has a quicker final drive ratio and taller aerodynamic silhouette. The increase in size didn’t slow down the Prius V as its acceleration is the same as a standard Prius.

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Notable features of Prius V: The basic standard features of the Prius V include 16-inch wheels, cruise control, seven airbags, halogen headlamps, intermittent wipers, automatic climate control, a SmartKey anti-theft system, power windows, mirrors and locks, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with Bluetooth, and the ability to connect a USB drive or iPod.

It possesses second-row seats that can slide about 7 inches and can recline 45 degrees, giving passengers plenty of leg room. It’s also equipped with an optional panoramic roof which is made from polycarbonate resin. This material is about 40 percent lighter than glass and keeps out more sunlight heat.

The Prius V is the first Toyota vehicle to feature an optional EnTune telematics system, which connects to Bing, Pandora, OpenTable, as well as weather, traffic, sports and stock tickers. It also generates a low whirring noise at around-town speeds to warn pedestrians of its presence. The technological advancements of the Prius V make this a car to love for technology buffs.

Below is a chart matching up the 2012 Toyota Prius V with the 2011 Toyota Prius

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Roomier Toyota Prius
	2012 Toyota Prius V	2011 Toyota Prius
Wheelbase	109.4 in.	106.3
Length	181.7 in.	175.6
Width	69.9 in.	68.7
Height	62.0 in.	58.7
Engine	1.8-liter inline-four	1.8-liter inline-four
Horsepower	98 @ 5200 rpm	98 @ 5200 rpm
Torque, lbs.-ft.	105 @ 4000 rpm	105 @ 4000 rpm
Hybrid net HP	134	134
Fuel economy	44/40/42 mpg	51/48/50 mpg
Curb weight	3,274 lbs.	3,042 lbs

Verdict- While the Prius V is not as fuel efficient as past models, the increase in size and the technological advancements make this the model for Prius doubters to try. Its design gives it a sleeker look when compared to other wagons, and its size increase will give users the freedom to use their Prius for road trips and vacations. Whereas previous Prius models made drivers choose between putting in passengers or their luggage, now Prius V owners will be able to fit both, making it the ideal car for that family road trip you always dreamed of.

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Want to watch a video walk around of the Prius V? Go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91NPe5raCVU