Toyota Prius+ T4: Test Drive Review

Date: 31 October 2012

Category: Mini-mpv P11D price: £26,140 Key rival: Renault Grand Scenic

The Prius+ is a seven-seat hybrid that resembles the hatchback Prius model until you get to the rear, where an extra pair of seats lurk, which can be folded flat into a more practical, large boot area that's much bigger than the hatch. The rearmost seats are helped for space by a middle row that slides forward, but is still a bit cosy and not somewhere adults will want to spend too long. But they easily fold down flat for the largest luggage space yet offered by a hybrid at this price region.

This T4 trim level is down at just 96g/km, making it comfortably the most efficient seven-seater on sale, although beware that the T-spirit trim's larger wheels tip it over 101g/km for higher BIK and non-exemption from London congestion charge payments. That trim level also adds standard satnav, Bluetooth, leather interior and an upgraded stereo, but it does take the Prius+ up to nearly £30,000.

It's not a fun drive and performance is lethargic unless you really hamper the economy, but it's impossible to argue with the Prius+'s peerless efficiency, and its faults in terms of driving enjoyment are of the kind that won't bother the kind of person looking to minimise their outgoings by picking the most efficient vehicle.

Subscribe