Toyota Prius v Makes its Debut in Detroit – v is for versatility
Toyota has expanded its Prius hybrid family count to 4, with the debut of the Toyota Prius c Concept and Prius v at the NAIAS in Detroit. The twinkly join the existing 3rd generation Toyota Prius and Prius Plug-In Hybrid, which is already undergoing field evaluation in the US selectively. The big ticket item is of course the Toyota Prius v, since the c Concept is still a ways away from marketplace reality. Essentially, the Toyota Prius v – with the v standing for versatility – is a larger ZVW30, sitting on the same platform and continuing to seat 5, but offering over 50% more cargo space than the latter.
Ditto the pot, which is the same 2ZR-FXE 1800cc Atkinson cycle unit, providing 98 hp at 5200 rpm and 142 Nm at 4000 rpm; together with the permanent magnet synchronous motor electric drive train’s 80 hp, the combined total output is 134 hp, identical to the ZVW30′s. Still, Toyota cars says the v is a new vehicle planned from the ground up, with a shape and style that has evolved from the current Toyota Prius rather than being an lengthened version of it. Nonetheless, one can't help but feel it is evolution rather than revolution.
Shape-wise, the v (vehicle) looks very much more rounded off than the ZVW30, but continue Toyota Prius cues well enough. The trapezoidal-shaped facade features sharp-edged headlamps, wind-slipping aero corners for improved aerodynamics and a magnified under grille, which help create a unique design evolving from the current Toyota Prius. At the back, the styling is highlighted by a refined rear door panel, intricate combination taillights and a specially designed roof spoiler that improves air flow. 2 wheel sizes are available – 16″ as standard, 17″ as an option.
Certainly, internal space is up, with improved occupant to occupant distance, especially fore-aft, and of course the cargo space volume is up from the existing Toyota Prius. Elsewhere, the cabin features and specs a more refined dashboard presentation, though the general layout is retained. The center stack has become a whole lot imposing, and that bit busier. The driving controls – including the Push Button Start, parking switch, driving mode and electronic shift lever selection – are distinguished by silver trim.
Toyota Prius v (vehicle) features a Toyota-1st, which is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades, providing an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40% reduction in weight compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size. Like the ZVW30, the Prius v has 4 driving modes, and as far as features go, there is a smart key system with Hill Start Assist Control and a reverse camera as standard fitment.
Other features and functions include Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, Antilock Braking System and Electronic brake force distribution, and the Prius also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system. When it goes on sale in the US in the late summer of this year, American Toyota Prius v models will come wearing an Entune multimedia system, which offers a richer in-vehicle experience with completely wireless upgradeable navigation and integrated, information services and entertainment.