2012 Toyota Prius v: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big news for 2012 is the debut of the Toyota Prius v, a larger, wagon-style member of the Prius family. It pairs a roomier cabin and 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space with a 42-mpg combined EPA rating.
About the 2012 Toyota Prius v
1st generation Prius v (2012-2017), first year
Toyota positioned the Prius v as the versatile, family-oriented member of the Prius lineup. Its core appeal was simple: Prius hybrid fuel economy in a roomier body with more cargo space than many small SUVs, plus flexible seating for everyday family use. Buyers chose it because it delivered excellent gas mileage, a tall-roof cabin, a large rear cargo area, and easy-to-use controls without moving to a larger crossover or minivan.
The Prius v Two is the value-focused version, with a touchscreen, backup camera, Bluetooth, and a flexible rear seat. The Three adds built-in navigation, while the more upscale Five has SofTex-trimmed seats, heated front seats, LED headlights, fog lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
What changed, by category
2012 Toyota Prius v specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 44 mpg | 44 mpg | 44 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 40 mpg | 40 mpg | 40 mpg |
| Horsepower | 134 hp | 134 hp | 134 hp |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft | 105 lb-ft | 105 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 67.3 cu-ft | 67.3 cu-ft | 67.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.9 in | 35.9 in | 35.9 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was 2012 the first year of the Toyota Prius v?
Yes. The Prius v debuted in the U.S. for 2012 as a larger, wagon-style member of the Prius family and the first model year of its first generation.
How is the 2012 Prius v different from the regular Prius?
The 2012 Prius v has a longer wagon-style body, more rear-seat room, a wide rear hatch, and 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat. It was designed as the more family-focused Prius.
What hybrid system does the 2012 Toyota Prius v use?
Every 2012 Prius v uses a 1.8-liter hybrid system with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Its EPA ratings are 44 mpg city, 40 highway, and 42 combined.
What features are standard on every 2012 Prius v?
Every 2012 Prius v has a 6.1-inch touchscreen, backup camera, Bluetooth, USB connection, driver-door Smart Key access, and a sliding and reclining 60/40 rear seat.
What are the differences among the 2012 Prius v trims?
The Two covers the core family features, the Three adds built-in navigation and upgraded audio functions, and the Five adds SofTex-trimmed seats, heated front seats, LED headlights, fog lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels. All three use the same hybrid system.