Specification improvements introduced for the 2015 Toyota Prius+

Advanced technologies that allow for safer journeys with greater multimedia connectivity are at the top of the list when we look at Toyota’s specification improvements to the seven-seat hybrid that now comes complete with a fresh look and a new model line-up that keeps it at the cutting edge of the compact MPV market.

The restyled Prius+ was unveiled at this year’s Paris Motor Show, and now Toyota has confirmed UK specs to a new three-grade line-up with Excel Plus joining the established Icon and Excel models. This includes the addition of two new metallic paint options - Sienna Bronze and Galaxy Black – as well as a finer tuning of the already smooth, refined and efficient hybrid powertrain, that delivers up to 68.9mpg and a road tax-exempting emissions figure of down to 96g/km.

CHANGES FROM THE TOP

All Prius+ versions come complete with LED headlamps, new LED rear light clusters and a sharper front-end treatment, with the entry level Icon grade featuring the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio and reversing camera. It also has a tyre pressure warning system that is viewable on the colour TFT screen that has been added to the upper instrument panel, part of the redesigned cabin that has a reconstructed centre console, dark trim finish and improved seat fabrics.

On Excel and Excel Plus models, the infotainment is upgraded to a Toyota Touch 2 with Go system that adds in navigation and connectivity functions that includes access to live traffic information and an expanded range of connected services, text-to-speech function and 3D city modelling.

CHANGES WHEN YOU STOP (suddenly)

All three Prius+ versions have been made safer by the addition of technology features that contribute to smoother and easier driving whilst at the same time making the drive safer by avoiding accidents and oprotecting during the unavoidable. The Excel and Excel Plus models feature Toyota’s Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), which uses a millimetre-wave radar to scan the road ahead and determine the risk of an impact. If impact is unavoidable, PCS tightens the front seatbelts and activates pre-crash braking.

Along with this, Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses the same radar to monitor the distance from the vehicle ahead when driving in traffic to slow the Prius+ down safely if required, is a part of the new technology too along with the very latest Intelligent Parking Assist system which helps getting in and out of a parking space.

So what are the key equipment features we can expect from the new and improved Prius+?

Toyota Prius+ Icon

16” alloy wheels, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, Toyota Touch 2 with DAB, Bluetooth and 6 speakers, reversing camera, LED headlights, colour TFT screen, smart entry and start, front fog lamps, rear privacy glass, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated front seats, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, and a tyre pressure warning system.

Toyota Prius+ Excel

As ICON with the addition/upgrade of 17” alloy wheels, Pre-Crash Safety System, Adaptive Cruise, Intelligent Park Assist and Toyota Touch 2 with Go system.

Toyota Prius+ Excel Plus

As EXCEL with the addition/upgrade of full leather seat upholstery and a DVD rear seat entertainment package with 2 independent monitors.

The 2015 Prius+ is available to order now, with first customer deliveries from January 2015, so keep your eye on here for the best Nationwide Vehicle Contracts deals.