Environment Transportation Mama Prius: The More Voluminous Prius v (2011 Detroit Auto Show) By Michael Graham Richard Writer University of Ottawa Michael Graham Richard is a writer from Ottawa, Ontario. He worked for Treehugger for 11 years, covering science, technology, and transportation. our editorial process Twitter Twitter Michael Graham Richard Updated October 11, 2018 Migrated Image Share Twitter Pinterest Email Transportation Automotive Active Aviation Public Transportation The Prius Goes Plural It's now officially official, the Prius is now a family of cars and not a single model. We had already seen some concept cars with the Prius badge, but the new Prius V is a production model that should be available next summer. It's very similar to the 2010 Prius, but it trades some fuel efficiency for room: It's a bit bigger, but combined MPG is 40 instead of 50 (which is a bit disappointing). The "V" stands for "versatility", says Toyota. The big plus is 50% more cargo space than the regular Prius. "With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, 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." Preliminary Specifications 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-iEngine horsepower: 98 hp @ 5,200 rpmEngine torque: 105 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpmElectric motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motorElectric motor power output: 80 hp/153 lb-ft torqueHybrid system net horsepower: 134 hpEmission rating: SULEV/Tier 2 Bin 3Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission Drive System: Front-wheel-driveHybrid battery pack: Nickel-metal hydrideEstimated fuel economy: 42 mpg city/38 mpg hwy/ 40 mpg comb. About the rear seats: "Comfortable seating for five is specifically designed for young families. Sliding second row seats allow for easier ingress and egress and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo." Sadly, no info about pricing yet. At the latest, it should appear before launch around the late spring/early summer.