2015 Toyota Prius v

NEW FOR 2015:

- New colours: Attitude Black, Absolutely Red, Toasted Walnut

The family-friendly Prius v rolls into 2015 with a host up updates as a part of a mid-cycle refresh. The biggest Prius gets a new front fascia design with an integrated gloss grey grille insert and vertical vents, new headlamps with LED daytime running lights, and new tail lights.

Although the overall design of the v’s cabin remains unchanged, upgrades have been made throughout. A full-colour 4.2-inch TFT information display sits to the right of the white-on-black digital instrument cluster atop the dashboard, while the mid-grade Luxury package now receives a power-operated driver’s seat, in place of last year’s resin panoramic sunroof. The top-spec Technology Package combines equipment from the Touring package, and also adds lane-departure alert and full-LED headlamps with automatic high beams. The clumsy self-parking function has quietly been dropped, as has the premium JBL sound system.

Powering the Prius v is the same 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine and Hybrid Synergy Drive setup as the standard Prius. With multiple driving modes including an EV-only mode, it delivers excellent fuel economy if driven carefully. However, given the fact that it hauls an additional 230 lbs of glass and metal about, it’s not especially quick.

Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, 6.1-inch display audio system, AM/FM/MP3/CD player, auxiliary input, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, reverse camera, cloth upholstery, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, four-way manually adjustable passenger seat, 60/40 split-folding sliding and reclining rear seat, proximity key with push-button start, auto up/down windows, automatic headlights, exterior temperature gauge, Eco Drive Monitor with full-colour 4.2-inch multi-information display, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio and climate controls, floor mats, cargo cover, cargo net, cruise control, digital clock, illuminated entry, front and rear splash guards, rear bumper protector, rear spoiler, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear washer/wiper, LED taillights.

The Luxury Package adds eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, synthetic leather-wrapped steering wheel, navigation system, SofTex synthetic leather upholstery, heated seats, satellite radio, garage door opener, additional proximity key lock/unlock points, resin panoramic sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror and front footwell lighting.

The Technology Package adds 17-inch wheels, resin panoramic sunroof, fog lamps, LED headlights, automatic high beams, radar cruise control, lane-departure warning and pre-collision alert.