Toyota Prius 2012

Say adieu to the Prius as a stand-alone vehicle name. Beginning with the 2012 model year, the car which has become a synonym for hybrid in the American lexicon will have a new name, the Toyota Prius Liftback.

Why is this? Because the Prius sub brand is growing. The larger Prius v is already on sale, and joining the Prius family in 2012 will be the Prius Plug-in Hybrid and the subcompact Prius c.

When it arrives in dealer showrooms in January, the Prius Liftback will have more than just a new name. Toyota has given its hybrid star a mild exterior refresh, newly styled 15-inch wheel covers, other enhancements and a small bump up in pricing. The 2012 model will continue with four trim levels – Two, Three, Four and Five – and seven configurations. The Prius Liftback One trim is available only to fleets.