Two weeks after puzzle packages were first sent out to 50 of the web's biggest Prius fans, the pieces have finally fallen into place and we have a better picture of what the Prius v wagon will be all about. So here's what we can gather from the completed puzzle:
- 50% more cargo space. This is the big feature of the Prius v. A 50% increase in cargo volume will bring the "v" up to about 32 cu ft. That's still about 5 cu ft short of the cargo space in an SUV like the RAV4, but is still very competitive for families who would otherwise look at midsize SUVs.
- No third seat, at least here in the US. The early reports we had heard about a 3rd row in the Prius v came out of Japan, so it's no big shock that we aren't getting it in North America. Still, it is disappointing since it won't meet the needs of those hybrid fans who want minivan passenger space without the bloat that has taken over the van segment like the Sienna.
- Dual panel moonroof. Let's hope at least the front one opens. I've always thought moonroofs that don't open are a total waste, but that opinion could be the minority. The added cost and weight (think MPGs) would not be worth the trade-off for a fixed piece of glass.
- New audio system with internet streaming. Toyota showed us in one of the earlier teasers that the Prius v is going to get a new audio system with internet audio streaming, at least in the form of an "iheartradio" app (a ClearChannel service). Pandora recently updated their smartphone app to enable AppLink compatibility with Ford's SYNC system. Hopefully Toyota is using a similar API to connect Android and iOS phones to the new Prius v's audio system. I mostly hold out hope so that Prius owners aren't stuck with a ClearChannel service on their future Prius.
- Power outlet in the trunk. Finally, a power source in the Prius' trunk. I can't tell you how many times I've wanted this feature in my 2G and 3G Prius, and we'll finally get it in the Prius v.
- Hard plastic seatbacks on the rear seats. This is a small, but great addition to the Prius family. Hopefully they are unlike the interior plastics on the 3rd Generation Prius and won't scratch easily.
What stood out to you amongst all of the teaser images we've seen so far?
