The new Toyota Prius V, with "v" expressing the vehicle's versatility, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. It will share the current generation Prius' platform and Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Featuring a compact exterior yet spacious interior, the Toyota Prius V will feature over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius.

 

                                                               2012 Toyota Prius V Models

With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, Toyota Prius V has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, which does not inhibit the vehicle's convenient packaging. It is a new vehicle designed from the ground up, with a shape that evolved from Prius rather than being an elongated version.

                                                               2012 Toyota Prius V Models

Now Toyota is set to grow its Prius lineup with three new models. In fact, Bob Carter, Toyota division group vice president and general manager, says that the Japanese automaker fully expects the Prius family to become its best-selling product line in the near future – beating out internal combustion titans like the Camry and Corolla in the process. As a result, the company is planning to unleash of a barrage of products that include a model based on the Prius C Concept, a plug-in version of the hybrid and the taller, boxier Prius V.

Toyota won't release final pricing information on the Prius V until closer to the model's fall launch date. As a result, it's difficult to give this wagon a confident endorsement. The company says that its newest hybrid is positioned to draw buyers who are currently looking toward small SUVs, crossovers and wagons, and they're dead right. The Prius V has all of the functionality of those vehicles with the fuel economy and panache that only the Prius name can offer.

                                                                    2012 Toyota Prius V Models

If we were going to lay down a yet-to-be-determined chunk of change for a Prius, the V would certainly be the model to take home. Its small fuel economy sacrifices are more than made up for by increased versatility and backseat comfort. We even think the taller roof line makes the model more becoming. For the first time, the Prius name stands for fuel economy and functionality.