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In the land down under, Toyota Australia has just expanded the iconic Prius into a family of vehicles with the arrival of the seven-seat Prius V.
The ‘V’ stands for Versatility. It is also the first car in Australia to offer customers the flexibility of seven seats combined with a hybrid powertrain. From now in Australia, the Prius available in 3 models – the flagship Prius hatch, Prius C and latest Prius V.
Newly designed from the ground up, Prius V is longer, wider and taller than a standard Prius with an extended wheelbase, making it possible to accommodate adults in all three rows.
The adoption of three-row seating has been achieved by the installation of a highly compact, space-saving lithium-ion battery pack which placed under the centre console between the front seats. It is the first lithium-ion battery to be fitted to a Toyota sold in Australia.
Prius V will be priced from AUD 35,990 with advanced features including a 6.1-inch display-screen audio system, automatic air-conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, energy monitor, head-up display, keyless entry and ignition, daytime-sensing headlamps, electric power steering, cruise control and daytime running lamps.
Seven airbags, a reversing camera, hill-start assist, stability and traction control, and anti-skid brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution are standard.
Prius V showcases the latest generation of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, which employs a 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and a powerful 60kW electric motor for a combined system output of 100kW. The fuel economy wise, Prius V returns class-leading fuel economy of 4.4 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 101g/km.
Toyota Australia’s executive director sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said Prius V will hold a unique position in the Toyota line-up as well as the industry.
“Prius V will compete in multiple segments with its combination of size, versatility and fuel efficiency in a mid-size package,” Mr Callachor said.
“We see Prius V as an alternative to small or mid-size sedans and wagons as well as compact SUVs and crossover vehicles – with fuel economy few of them can match,” he said.
“With the added cargo space, the Prius V might also make an ideal light delivery vehicle for florists and small-package delivery services.
“With all its useable interior space and convenience, as well as its competitive price, performance and fuel economy, Prius V will present a compelling choice for buyers,” Mr Callachor said.
The new car’s seven-seat format features three independent sliding, reclining and split-folding second-row seats and a 50:50 split-folding third tier, providing a huge range of seating and cargo-carrying combinations. Each row of seats is raised slightly above the one in front, providing clear forward visibility for all occupants while maintaining ample head clearance and legroom throughout. In addition, the Prius V provides 180 litres of cargo space. Stowing the third row of seats provides a flat luggage floor with a capacity of 485 litres.
Just like the Prius, there are three “on-demand” drive modes to increase the capabilities of the full hybrid powertrain – EV, Eco and Power.
The new Toyota Prius V, like all new Toyota vehicles, is covered by Toyota Service Advantage with a capped price of AUD 130 for each of up to six scheduled logbook services in the first three years or 60,000km.
Photo Gallery: Toyota Prius V Australia
