Roomy and capable people-movers don't have to be gas-guzzling beasts, and high-efficiency low-emissions green machines don't have to be designed down to a specific size. The Toyota Prius v combines the efficiency and very low emissions of Toyota's HSD hybrid system with a spacious -- and now rather attractive -- tall-wagon body.
What's New for 2017
After last year's refresh the Prius v receives only minor updates. The Entune infotainment system receives upgraded voice recognition capabilities; building off of that, Entune now also includes Apple's Siri Eyes Free function. And for those who prefer adventurous paint colors with J. Crew-style names, an intriguing indigo shade called Galactic Aqua Mica is available.
Choosing Your Toyota Prius v
The Toyota Prius v (reminder for when you visit the showroom: lower-case v, not V or five) is essentially a taller and more spacious body on top of Prius electrical and mechanical components which have been tuned for slightly more power to offset the extra weight and capacity. A 1.8-liter inline-4 works together with an electric motor to send up to 134 horsepower to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission.
Standard features include Bluetooth, a backup camera, automatic climate control, and a long list of safety features including whiplash-reducing seats. The one major available option is an Advanced Technology Package which contains a multitude of high-tech features (radar cruise control, lane departure alert, a heavily upgraded infotainment system) along with the simple pleasure of a sunroof; it is only available on the Five.
The Prius v is available in four trim levels:
With the exception of the bigger wheels on the Five, the four different Prius v trims are mechanically identical—the only differentiation is in interior fittings and electronics. If you don't require the Five's available Advanced Technology Package, our bet is with the Three; its standard navigation and satellite radio makes for more informed and enjoyable road trips without an undue price jump.