Toyota has revised the Prius for 2012 with fresh styling and more equipment. Even with the changes it promises that the car's 89g/km CO
2 emissions and 72.4mpg economy (92g/km and 70.5mpg for cars with 17-inch wheels) are unaffected.
The front of the car has been updated in line with the rest of the Toyota range. There is a new front bumper with a larger lower grille that incorporates the front fog lights. The daytime running lights have been moved to the bumper and there are new clear-lens headlamps.
All models come with heated, power folding door mirrors and the rear lamp clusters have also been redesigned. The T3 model gets new wheel caps for its 15-inch wheels and the top T Sprint version comes with LED headlamps.
Changes to the interior trim have been designed to improve perceived quality. There are silver inserts on the centre console and air vents while the hybrid start button is now illuminated blue. The T4 and T Sprint get new black seat trim. The front seats are new and offer a wider range of adjustment. All three trim levels - T3, T4 and T Sprint - come with Toyota's touch-screen navigation and entertainment system.
Under the skin the body is claimed to be more rigid thanks to an increase in the number of welding spots and reinforcements. This has allowed the suspension to be re-tuned for greater comfort. At the same time the steering column support is now more rigid for improved steering feel. There is also more soundproofing to reduce noise and vibration.
The updated Prius goes on sale in March with prices starting at £21,350.
Paul Healy - 23 Jan 2012