Toyota Prius V Set For Australian International Motor Show Appearance

Toyota has confirmed that its Prius V people-mover will make an appearance at July's Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) in Melbourne, ahead of a possible market debut.

The Prius V will appear alongside the current Prius hatch, and along with the tiny Prius C city-car, Toyota will use the event to gauge customer interest in the brand's growing hybrid range.

"Later this year, we expect to be in a position to make further announcements about bringing an extended Prius family to local showrooms," Toyota Australia boss David Buttner said.

The announcement follows the Japanese market debut of the Prius V last week, where it will be sold as the Prius Alpha.

Power for the Prius V is provided by the same 1.8 litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine driving the regular Prius, mated to an electric motor. Power for the petrol engine is rated at 73kW and 142Nm; the electric motor adds 60kW and 207Nm of torque.

Unlike the regular Prius, the Prius V will be available - in Japan, at least - with both a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and a longer-lasting lithium-ion battery pack.

"Prius v is a family-oriented five-seater designed to meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles," Mr Buttner said.

The Prius V is based on the existing Prius hatch, but thanks to its stretched underpinnings and taller design, it offers up to 60 percent more storage space. 

A five-seat layout is standard for the Prius V, however a seven-seat Prius+ variant also exists - and both models are under consideration for Australia.

• Click here to learn more about the Toyota Prius V.
• Click here to visit TMR's 2011 AIMS page.