We review the Toyota Prius+ from price to economy and all its features

THE Prius+ is about to = even more success for Toyota.

The world’s best-selling hybrid car is in the family way, with two new models set to expand its appeal.

Family friendly … Toyota Prius+

Toyota have already sold more than 2.6million Prius models since it was launched just over ten years ago.

It’s the model that single-handedly made the breakthrough for hybrids to become mainstream sellers.

While a wave of electric models and other hybrids struggle to make an impact, Prius is now part of the motoring establishment.

And its new family of Priuses includes a plug-in, plus hybrid versions of the Yaris and Auris.

The Prius+ is a seven-seater aimed at the growing family.

Considering it’s 135mm longer, 33mm wider and 85mm higher than a standard Prius, designers have done a remarkable job of making the + look sleeker and more stylish.

It’s instantly recognisable as a Prius, with its distinctive triangle silhouette, but looks more substantial.

The streamlined shape is all geared towards better aero-dynamics to improve fuel economy and handling, from the small upper grille to the big lower one which improves engine cooling and houses chrome-backed fog-lights.

The + also gets its own interior design featuring a flowing centre console, with two instrument clusters.

Sadly it’s all wrapped in bland and dull grey fabrics and trim. You get three driving modes, normal, eco and EV (electric), plus a power button to sharpen the 1.8litre engine’s performance.

But the engine is still uninspiring and sounds strained under hard acceleration, 0-62mph in a leisurely 11.3 seconds and a top speed just over the ton.

But Prius buyers are all about sensible economical driving.

And combined figures of 68.9mpg — I managed just over 60mpg driving normally — and CO2 down to a road tax-free 96g/km are the car’s best.

But what the Prius+ really brings to the party is two extra family-friendly seats.

Knee room in the second and third row has been improved by an extra 25mm, although the back row of seats are for kids rather than adults.

And everyone on board gets a good view because each row of seats is set 45mm higher than the one in front.

With all the seats in place, luggage space is reduced to 232litres. But with the third row stowed, it increases to 784litres. With all seats folded it’s 1,750.

There’s also a handy 345mm deep, 60litre storage tray beneath the luggage dock, plus lots of cubby-holes around the cabin. And you get a smart double panoramic glass roof.

So the Prius+ is perfectly practical for the growing family.

The well equipped T4 version is £2,840 more than the standard at £26,195 and goes up to £29,495 for the singing and dancing T Spirit.

And that’s still cheaper than less practical rivals.