Toyota has been working on several Prius variants for the next few years of release. The almost minivan-size Prius MPV is one of them, and has finally (though not exactly officially) been unveiled to the public.

The Japanese automaker celebrates a sales milestone for the hybrid hatchback and is working on a MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) version. This "eco people-carrier" has kept Prius in the headlines of major automotive sites and magazines for months.

First seen in the US outside Las Vegas Toyota teased the Prius MPV using a billboard that showed the vehicle, which was hidden by the standard version of the Prius. The company also uploaded photos of said billboard on the Prius Facebook page.

Now, the first image of the Prius MPV has leaked onto the web. The people-moving incarnation of the Prius doesn't come with major styling changes. In fact, its higher roof line is about the only change in appearance.

The Prius MPV is scheduled to make its world debut in Detroit at next year's North American International Auto Show. Toyota confirmed that it will introduce a new member of the Prius family at the event. However, the company did not offer a name for the future car, only mentioning that it will offer a higher level of comfort, style and versatility.

According to earlier media reports, "the Prius MPV will use three rows of seats and be able to accommodate seven passengers. In addition to that, the vehicle might come with an extra battery pack for the current hybrid powertrain, which will be stored under its floor. This could mean plans to offer the vehicle as a plug-in."

Find out when these new Prius variants are scheduled to come to your local dealership - Toyota of North Charlotte - 13429 Statesville Road Huntersville, NC 28078

[SOURCE] http://www.autoevolution.com/news/toyota-prius-mpv-revealed-25641.html