NAIAS 2011: Toyota Launches Prius Wagon, Plug-in, and compact concept

January 12,2011

Toyota USA has expanded its Prius lineup to three production vehicles, with more on the way. The major launch is the new Prius wagon, called Prius v (for versatility). The Prius v uses the platform and hybrid drivetrain of the third-generation Prius hatchback in a new large wagon configuration. The expanded dimensions allow for greater passenger room, as well as 50 percent more cargo space than the Prius. Contrary to expectations of a seven-seater, the Prius v seats only five. It checks in at 4615mm long x 1775mm wide x 1574mm tall (vs Prius 4460mm x 1745mm x 1480mm).

The exterior styling is similar to the Prius’ and is optimized for aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, it’s also a familiar tale. The rear seats slide and split-fold, while the front passenger seat can fold flat. A new feature is a plastic Panoramic View moonroof, which saves weight from a conventional glass roof. It also carries Toyota’s Entune multimedia system, which links with mobile phone apps to provide music streaming and news such as weather, traffic, and stock information.

Being a heavier vehicle, the Prius v also loses some km for its liters, registering at 17 km/liter versus 21 km/liter for the Prius. Toyota touts this as still the best of any SUV or wagon on the US market, with less emissions to boot.

Toyota also showed a plug-in version of the Prius, which can travel by electric power for up to 20 km. It recharges in less than 2 hours on a 220V outlet. Significantly, it marks the first time that Toyota has used lithium-ion batteries in a production model. Then there’s the Prius c concept, which will be developed into a 2012 city car. Interestingly, its interior controls include an all-purpose joystick that looks similar to an Alpine audio control that seemed so high-tech so many years ago.

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