Share thoughts on centre console layout

[XMAN LIVE]

I would like to get feedback from people that have been driving the 2010 Prius on if the center console layout is an issue with your right leg. With console going to dash, it seems this could be an issue with sharp or un-padded console as your leg could be resting on it. I still have not had a chance to even sit in one. Went to Houston Auto show to see it and only found a picture of it.

[yardman 49]

Originally Posted by XMAN LIVE

I would like to get feedback from people that have been driving the 2010 Prius on if the center console layout is an issue with your right leg. With console going to dash, it seems this could be an issue with sharp or un-padded console as your leg could be resting on it. I still have not had a chance to even sit in one. Went to Houston Auto show to see it and only found a picture of it.

I havent' driven a 2010, but just from the pictures that I've seen online, I don't like the 2010 console layout. Just my personal preference, but I don't like to feel that I'm sitting in a fighter jet "cockpit".

For me, the G2 console layout is just about perfect. I don't need the shift lever to be on the console, as it already is within fingers reach on the G2 dash. I almost don't have to take my right hand off the steering wheel to switch to "brake" or "drive".

I think that the G3 arrangement is meant to appeal to those that insist on a more traditional "sports car" arrangement. But no matter the size of the interior, full length center consoles always give me the feeling that a car is "smaller" inside than it actually is. Sort of like packing too much furniture into a room, and not leaving enough open space.

Just my 2 cents.

[a priori]

Originally Posted by yardman 49

I havent' driven a 2010, but just from the pictures that I've seen online, I don't like the 2010 console layout.

I'll differ with you only on one point -- I've sat in several of the 2010s. I think the center console is the one interior change I really don't care for. It hasn't kept me from ordering a 2010, but I'd be a bit happier about it without that console. And I've really liked consoles in past cars!

Originally Posted by yardman 49

For me, the G2 console layout is just about perfect. I don't need the shift lever to be on the console, as it already is within fingers reach on the G2 dash. I almost don't have to take my right hand off the steering wheel to switch to "brake" or "drive".

Yes, the G2 layout is very nice. It is open and clean, and the gear lever doesn't get in the way. You need to use it so infrequently that it should not be in a space that could be better utilized. Really, I'd rather have a cup holder there and put the gear lever back on the dashboard.

Originally Posted by yardman 49

I think that the G3 arrangement is meant to appeal to those that insist on a more traditional "sports car" arrangement.

This is the only explanation that has made sense to me. I think Toyota felt it had to go for a broader appeal and grab people who are more accustomed to "normal cars." The gear knob on the dashboard was enough to send some people screaming from the showroom, apparently.

The best thing about the console? The edges on the lower storage area. This will keep things from rolling around!

The worst thing (aside from the looks)? The seat warmer buttons are set way down low. They were on the pre-production models, at least. I don't know if it has changed, but I doubt they were going to alter that part.

[Steve Cebu]

I'd still like to see the original question answered about the width for extra room for the right leg. My 2008 Civic Si was miserable in this regard and the reason I would not buy another one.
If I could sit in and or drive this car it would help a lot but since that's not possible. We have to rely on those who already own the car.

[Jabber]

Originally Posted by a priori

The worst thing (aside from the looks)? The seat warmer buttons are set way down low. They were on the pre-production models, at least. I don't know if it has changed, but I doubt they were going to alter that part.

Still way down under the top console. I actually made a negative comment yesterday when my first one came in.

[a priori]

Originally Posted by Jabber

Still way down under the top console. I actually made a negative comment yesterday when my first one came in.

Jeff,

Thanks for the info, though I'd hoped things would have changed. The next question (perhaps a more important one): Is there an auto turn-off? I don't want to try to reach down under that console when I get a hot seat while driving!

[Jabber]

Good question. On most heated seats, there is. However, these look like the Rav4 buttons, which do not auto shutoff.

[a priori]

Originally Posted by Jabber

Good question. On most heated seats, there is. However, these look like the Rav4 buttons, which do not auto shutoff.

Ouch!! I've already got the burn going. (Yes, in more ways than one.)

[yardman 49]

Aren't the 12v outlets also under the console?

[Jabber]

There is one outlet down there.