2012 Prius (CANADA): Base vs. Touring?

The LED lights are not the same as HID lights. They are leds (light emitting diodes). They need the auto-leveling because they are so bright, or perceived to be bright by DOT Canada.
HID lights produce light from an arc in a gas (plasma). Those lights were problematic in the GII models but we were lucky they weren't offered in Canada.

Search on this site for LED headlamp comparison. I remember one or two threads that discussed this (they were an option starting in 2010). If I remember correctly, those who got them were impressed.

The extra cost of the touring package is for the LEDs plus other options, such as the wheels. Probably have to make a list comparing the two and tick off what you want to decide if it's worth it to you.

 

There are also a few items that have been part of the Touring Package (or 5 in the US) not cited as included by Toyota for some reason. For example, the Touring/5 includes additional sound deadening material so the cabin is a bit quieter, and the steering is a little tighter thanks to a revised ratio. Though $3500 is a lot for a single option package, the content it includes VS. the base model makes it worthwhile IMO.

It should be noted that a 2011 Touring MSRP'd for $31,865, while the 2012 with a higher level of equipment MSRP's for ~$2000 less...a relative bargain

 

We bought a 2010 Touring. The main motivations:

I didn't like the sunroof, found it reduced head room too much, and I've just never been enamoured with sunroofs.

Standing on the lot, looking at the dorky 15" wheel covers over alloys, vs the more conventional 17" alloys without covers.

In our test drive I felt much more at ease in the Touring model, comparing to an earlier test drive in a techology package, with 15" wheels. It could have been various factors, but maybe the 17" low profiles, tighter lock-to-lock steering, possible suspension tweaks, all were factors, not sure. The car felt more confidence inspiring, planted. OTOH: the second test drive in the Touring model was in daylight, and maybe I was just getting more used to the car, not sure.

At least with the 2010, touring had upgraded stereo, XM satellite ready, bluetooth for phone, keyless entry, garage opener built-in to the mirror, and so on.

Those low profile 17" tires apparently cost a bit of mileage, not too much though.

Also, per the mention above, the soundproofing is better. One thing I've noticed: we have a rear wheel well liner that's missing on other models.

Oh, and the fog lights were included. FWIW, I don't think I've ever really needed them. And I've found it hard to even tell when they're on. They look nice though.

 

As you can see on my profile, I have a Touring model. I came from a 02 Accord 4cyl, and I simply refused to own another car with 15" alloys. Asides from that, the fogs are useless but I love the LED headlights. And I hate the bluish light that tuners crave, I think it looks cheap. But these LEDs have a neutral colour temp.

It should be noted that on the 2012, while you do get NAV, you lose the premium JBL system. The JBL is by no means audiophile quality, but from what I've heard here, any Garmin/Tom Tom has better nav than the stock Toyota. But you can always go aftermarket for audio.

The question of value only you can answer.

 

okay, here I go again -- it has been 5 years during which I lost my Prius in a divorce -- and that divorced Prius is a Touring. I had a 2008, Touring, and I did not like the non-touring option's driving at all. The Touring has such a better drive. It is steady, stable, doesn't veer around on the road. So what I want to know is this: Is there a year of Prius between 2010 and 2015 that provides an equivalent to the Touring, but is not actually called a Touring? I know this is annoying for me to sidetrack this discussion, but I feel that my STRONG dislike of the non-touring is important to state.

 

not annoying at all, considering you revived a 6 year old thread from a fate worse than death.

 

To answer your question, the 3rd Generation Prius model year 2010-2015 has the trim level Five that’s pretty much equivalent to the 2nd Gen Touring models. Visually, 17” tire/wheel combo, fog lights, headlight washers etc items would tell you it’s a trim Five. In the US market Gen 3’s don’t use Touring model but Toyota brings the Touring Name back to Gen 4.

Hope this helps you identify the car you love.