The second production version added to the Toyota->ke88 Prius family is the new "v" version revealed at the Detroit Auto Show. With "v" expressing the vehicle’s versatility, the new Prius v will combine the practicability of a minivan with the hybrid drivetrain of a Prius->ke231 hatchback model.

The new "v" version is built on the same platform as the first Prius, but promises a 50% space increase inside its cabin. The car also has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, all while being produced in an evolutionary Prius design.

The car is identical to its hatchback brother: the same exterior design language, the same hybrid drive train under the hood that delivers a total of 40 mpg, and the same technology for the interior that includes an Entune multimedia system which supports mobile apps such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Toyota Prius v.

2012 Toyota Prius v

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Toyota Prius v
  • Engine/Motor: Hybrid
  • Horsepower: 134
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The car's exterior look is defined by sharp-edged headlamps, wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics, and an enlarged under grille, which all help create a unique design evolving from the current Prius. The rear gets a refined backdoor panel, intricate combination taillights, and a specially designed roof spoiler that improves air flow.

The interior offers high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom. A first for Toyota is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40% reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size.

Among the many technologies offered by the new Prius v is a new Entune multimedia system that offers fully integrated and wireless upgradeable navigation, entertainment and information services.

The Engine

Everything under the hood remains unchanged. Meaning the Prius v will get an 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle petrol engine that delivers 98 HP combined with an electric motor, for a total output of 134 net horsepower. The Prius v will deliver an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 42 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 40 mpg combined.

When Can I Buy One?

The new Prius v will go on sale in late summer 2011. Prices will be announced closer to that date.

The Competition

An obvious competitor for the new Prius v is the Honda Insight launched in 2009 at the Detroit Auto Show. The Insight is powered by an advanced 1.3-liter SOHC aluminum-alloy i-VTEC engine and CVT, along with a new generation of Honda’s IMA hybrid system that incorporates a 13 hp electric motor and a compact Intelligent Power Unit (IPU). The Insight is on sale at a price of $19,800.