Toyota delays the introduction of the Prius V model

Toyota is expanding its Prius range, and the automaker has some exciting news for buyers in Japan, North America, and Europe.

In Japan, Toyota plans to offer the Euro version of the Prius+ as an option to buyers of the Prius V. This move will allow Japanese customers to choose between a five and seven-seat version of the popular hybrid vehicle. However, the launch date for the Prius V in Japan remains undecided due to ongoing issues in the country.

Japan will also receive both versions of the new Prius, as Toyota has not been affected by the problems that have arisen from the recent earthquake and tsunami. The launch of the Prius in Europe is also not expected to be delayed.

Meanwhile, the UK will receive the Toyota Yaris Hybrid instead of the Prius V, with no five-seat option available. Interestingly, there will also be no seven-seat option for the Prius V in North America.

Outside Japan, the Prius V was planned for release in the United States from late summer 2011, while the Prius+ was introduced in Japan in May 2011 and later sold in Europe starting June 16, 2012. The expected launch of the Prius V in North America later this year is not expected to be delayed.

The new, bigger Prius V launch in Japan has been postponed, but the Toyota Prius C (also known as the Toyota Aqua in Japan) has already launched in the country. The Prius C will also be available in Europe later in 2012, with the TRD sporty options included.

A brochure leak revealed the first concrete news about the Toyota Prius C ahead of its Tokyo Motor Show debut. However, the Prius C will not be coming to the UK. Instead, it seems that the UK market will focus on the Yaris Hybrid.

In an effort to further expand the Prius range, Toyota is transforming it into a sub-brand. This move is expected to bring more hybrid models to the market in the future.

The Prius C is just the beginning of this exciting expansion. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest developments in the world of Toyota hybrid vehicles.