Overview
The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid is the new variant of the standard Prius with recharge-at-home capability and a lithium-ion battery system which provides higher capacity and improved efficiency. It offers comfortable seating for five passengers and luggage space like standard Prius model.
The 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid is available in Base and Advanced body styles.
Powertrain And Performance
The 2012 Prius Plug-in Hybrid has the Hybrid Synergy Drive of the standard Prius model which faultlessly switches into hybrid operation at a pre-determined state of battery charge. A newly developed 4.4 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery replaces the standard Prius model?s nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery and adds an easy-to-use external charging cable. A full charge using an external AC outlet takes approximately 2.5 to 3.0 hours using a 120v household outlet or 1.5 hours using a 240v outlet.
A1.8-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a pair of electric motor/generators rated provides power to the Prius Plug-in Hybrid. They send a net power of 134 horses to the front wheels through a unique continuously variable transmission (CVT). The battery system consists of advanced lithium-ion technology and has more capacity (4.4 kWh) than the regular Prius. It delivers 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 in hybrid mode alone.
Build And Styling
The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Base model is equipped with LED taillights, 15-wheel alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, navigation system, Toyota?s Entune smartphone and Web integration system. The Advanced model adds unique exterior styling treatment, foglamps, adaptive cruise control, upgraded seat upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a head-up display, more Entune capabilities and a premium eight-speaker JBL sound system with a larger touchscreen display.
Safety Features
Like all Toyota models, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid come with standard Star Safety System which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and the Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS), paired with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a frontal crash is determined to be unavoidable. The Prius Plug-in offers seven standard airbags. Safety Connect, which includes automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator, emergency assistance button (SOS) and roadside assistance (three-year complimentary subscription included) is also available.
