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A 2012 Toyota Prius Review
There have been several changes made between the 2011 and 2012 models of the Toyota Prius. Some of these are upgrades to the usual features like improvements to fuel economy and standard options. Other things are new to the 2012 model and represent advancing technology. Not only is there the hybrid model that everyone has come to know and love, but 2012 brings with it an improved plug-in version of the Prius as well as other differences.
The plug-in version of the Prius arrives on the scene for the 2012 model year and is a first. While some testers might not have been too keen on the car at first, Toyota has improved it from the first preproduction version. No only can this car reach highway legal speeds (62mph) without engaging the gas engine, it joins three other models as the main focus of the company. These other models are the Prius Liftback. The Prius V, and the Prius C.
The current plug-in qualifies for the $2,500 federal tax credit, which lowers the cost of the basic version to under $30,000. This comes with a fifteen mile electric range, while combined with a gas engine extends miles per tank to over five hundred. The mpg is projected to be listed at 87. The charging port is located now on the right rear side, opposite the gas tank opening. The battery charges in 3 hours at a 110-volt outlet, 1.5 hours at a 220-volt one and with a special charger in minutes.
The Prius Liftback remains the main car sold in this line with the plug-in being most similar to it. The Prius V is a larger version that has more cargo space, while the Prius C is a sporty, smaller version designed to offer better mileage while being more affordable then the other versions. The Prius Plug-in is still a hybrid, as hinted. While the engine is supposed to have a switch to allow you to kill it and only run on electric, one test driver found that this is slightly imperfectly designed, and that an acceleration at more then half power would kick the engine in and that it took a long idle period to get the car back into electronic only mode.
One should note however, that the plug-in version does have some benefits, particularly if you have a under fifteen mile commune and have a place to plug in at work. For many people who live close to where they work this type of car can cut down on the gas they use quite a lot. Those with a longer commute might wish to save their money and get the standard lift-back Prius or wait for the Prius C to come out. In either case, the 2012 Prius maintains storage space regardless of the version you chose. Be aware that the Prius V has a sound generator that the Plug-in version currently lacks. This might be a slight safety issue if people around your car are listening for the engine to start.
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