2012 Toyota Prius Improves With Subtle Changes

The secret to keeping a market-leading product atop the sales charts is contained with the Hippocratic oath: in regards to redesigns or refreshes, first, do no harm.

Toyota knows better than to roll the dice on a product like its Prius Hybrid, the perpetual sales leader in the hybrid segment. There are indeed changes for the  2012 model year, but they’re subtle enough to escape the untrained eye.

On the outside, the 2012 Toyota Prius gets a slightly restyled front end, complete with new headlights and LED daytime running lights. Out back, the Prius gets new taillights, and some models get new wheels for 2012.

Inside, the Prius gets more content across nearly all trim levels, which still consist of Prius One (reserved for fleet customers), Prius Two, Prius Three, Prius Four and Prius Five models.

For 2012, Prius Two models come with restyled 15-inch wheel covers, a new infotainment system with a 6.1-inch touch screen, a USB port, Bluetooth phone connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming.

Prius Three Models now get navigation as a standard feature, Toyota’s Entune telematics and infotainment system, a back up camera, Sirius XM satellite radio, HD Radio and a revised Smart Key system that now opens all three doors.

Opt for the 2012 Prius Four, and you’ll also get an eight-speaker JBL audio system, specifically designed to reduce power consumption.

If you buy the Deluxe Solar Roof Package on the Prius Four, you’ll get an included heads-up display and a seven inch touch screen monitor with split-screen capability.  

Finally, the range-topping Prius Five gets no new features other than the ones described in packages Two through Four above. Prius Five buyers can, however, opt for the Advanced Technology Package, which isn’t an available option on lower models.

The Advanced Technology Package includes the upgraded navigation system with larger screen, the heads up display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System and Lane Keep Assist.

Finally, for buyers who want a little more “sport” with their Prius, Toyota is offering the dealer installed Plus accessory package. The package includes a seven-piece body kit, lighter 17-inch wheels with performance oriented tires, lower springs and a rear sway bar for reduced body roll in corners.

Pricing for the 2012 Toyota Prius hybrid hasn't yet been released.

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