All About Japan Autos

It’s the time of year when we stuff ourselves and sport ugly sweaters from Aunt Vera. But it’s also the time of year automakers dole out teasers of the models they plan to debut at the 2011 auto shows.

“As the 2011 Detroit auto show approaches, Toyota has released another teaser image for its addition to the Prius family,” says Kicking Tires. “This time we get a sneak peek at the interior cargo area, which adds 50% more rear space over the traditional Prius’ 21.6 cubic feet, Toyota says.”

The new addition is the Prius MPV. USA Today says the cargo figures “would give this Prius MPV – a term for small vans like the Mazda5 – more cargo space than, say, a Honda Accord Crosstour or a Toyota Matrix, but less than the Mazda5 with the rear seats up.”

Cargo numbers aren’t the only teaser Toyota has about its Prius line. Toyota says they will “stage the world premiere of the Prius family of vehicles at a press conference at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In addition to the current third-generation Prius and Prius Plug-in vehicle (PHV), the first all-new addition to the Prius Family will debut along with a Prius concept vehicle.” So, in addition to the iconic Prius that’s on the road today, we’ll get a look at a Prius plug-in, another new model (which the press seems to think will be the Prius MPV) and a Prius concept.

With Prius models hitting the road soon, it’s a good time to be a hybrid buyer – especially since the Prius is no longer the only game in town for buyers who want a hybrid. The Ford Fusion Hybrid is well-liked and gets good fuel economy, and Hyundai just released pricing for its Sonata hybrid. But, if the new Prius is an MPV, Toyota may score a win with hybrid buyers who need more seating and cargo space than a sedan or hatchback can provide.

In the market for a new car? Check out the U.S. News rankings of this year’s best cars as well as this month’s best car deals. Also, be sure to check us out on Twitter.