The Prius v is an obvious choice for hybrid shoppers who want a wagon.
Introduction
To satisfy buyers who need more utility, Toyota introduced the Prius v -- a wagon -- in 2012. When compared to the hatchback model, the Prius v provides an additional 16 cubic feet of interior space, and 27.7 extra cubic feet of cargo room.
The 2013 Prius v carries over from 2012 with one slight change: the addition of a SofTex-wrapped steering wheel in its top trim level.
The 2013 Prius v comes in three trim levels -- Two, Three and Five -- and all feature the same hybrid drive system in which two electric motors assist a 1.8-liter gas engine. This drivetrain puts out a total of 138 horsepower and is mated to a fuel-saving continuously variable transmission. No one will mistake the Prius v for a sports car, but it holds its own with a 10.3-second 0-to-60 mph run.
Best Alternatives
2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
Powerful drivetrain, stylish body and exceptional efficiency, but little cargo capacity and shaky brakes
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
Great highway mpg rating, low base price and VW quality, but little cargo space and a new technology for VW
2013 Honda Insight
Good highway mpg ratings and known Honda reliability, but few standard features and little room for cargo
2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen
42 mpg highway rating with TDI model, no finicky hybrid drivetrain, but diesel fuel is pricey, low city mpg rating
