This five-seat MPV offers 50% more interior space than the Prius hatchback along with 970 litres of loadspace behind the rear seats. It also brings all the benefits of full hybrid power, supplied by the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive

The model uses the same platform and full hybrid powertrain as the current-generation Prius hatchback, with a more flexible design to meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles. Featuring a spacious interior within a compact exterior, it offers more than 50 per cent more interior cargo space than its sister model.

Inside the cabin design is spacious and flexible to meet the demands of modern active families. A high seating position supports overall comfort and good visibility, with ample headroom and a 965mm couple distance that delivers good legroom for rear seat passengers.

The second row seats have slide adjustment and can be reclined through 45 degrees. There's also 60:40 split-folding functionality while the front passenger seat can also be folded flat to allow longer items to be carried. Meanwhile the low- and wide-opening rear hatch allows for easy loading.

In spite of its size, Prius is expected to achieve the best fuel efficiency of any SUV, crossover or estate on the US market and produce 66% fewer smog-forming emissions than the average US new vehicle.

Bob Carter, Toyota Division Group vice president and general manager, said: 'Prius v is an all-new dedicated hybrid vehicle, and all future Prius family members will be as well. They will share common Prius attributes, but will be unique, with a special appeal to different buyers.'

Prius v is joined on the Toyota stand at Detroit by Prius c, a concept city car designed and engineered for outstanding fuel efficiency in a compact package, and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid.