The vehicle boasts essentially the same Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the third generation Prius but with 58 per cent more cargo space. Despite its spaciousness it still delivers fuel economy ratings of 44mpg city, 40mpg highway and 42mpg on the combined cycle.
In addition to standard driving mode, the Toyota Prius V also comes with an Eco driving mode, an electric vehicle driving mode and a power mode. The latter enhances mid-range response making it easier to cope with mountainous terrain; while in electric vehicle mode the Prius V can run on battery power alone for around one mile; and in eco driving mode the engine management system priorities fuel economy.
A new feature of the Prius V will be pitch and bounce control, which works with suspension enhancements to improve ride comfort and control. As the Prius V is larger its front and rear suspension components have been redesigned to improve handling and ride quality; and the pitch and bounce control uses the torque of the hybrid motor to work with wheel-speed sensors and suppress bounce and toss motions to improve comfort for all occupants.
Great emphasis has also been placed on improving the aerodynamics and weight of the Prius V with the wheels and wheel caps designed with aerodynamic effects in mind. Further weight reductions include the door panels being foam injected with polypropylene and the deck board with lightweight urethane. It also boasts a resin Panoramic View Moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40 per cent weight reduction.
There will be three configurations of the Prius V available: the base model at $26,400; the Prius V Three at $27,165; and the Prius V Five at $29,990. It will arrive in dealerships from late October.
