Japanese carmaker Toyota has introduced Prius v with expanded cargo space and fuel economy of 44mpg city, 40mpg highway and 42mpg combined.

The new feature is stated to help rear passengers get in and out conveniently of Prius v and load its cargo area, riding high on a sliding second seat row.

The seat material is called SofTex, stated to be lighter than leather and its manufacturing process is said to produce 99% fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The seating arrangement has head- and legroom for five, plus 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 60/40 split folding rear seats. When the seatbacks are lowered, 67.3 cubic feet space can be created for occupants.

The fold-flat front passenger seat is also said to carry longer items.

Prius v features Toyota's Star Safety System, such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST, a brake-override system.

Besides, seven airbags have been supplied with the model, including a knee airbag for the driver.

The Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Prius v gives an output of a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a 60kw (80hp) electric motor. The maximum motor drive voltage has been assessed at 650 volts DC.

Image: 2016 Toyota Prius. Photo: courtesy of Toyota.