If you purchased your car with "new" Navi that includes USB/iPod...

...did you also have to purchase "Safety Connect"?

The Toyota website lists Navi w/USB as an $1,800 option, the same as older systems without USB, but a couple of other sites list it as $2,400.

A local dealer has said the $600 is for Safety Connect, and that it will be included on every Prius with a Navi - effectively adding $600 to the cost if you want Navi.

I know the new systems with USB are just now coming in, but would like some feedback if this is indeed the case or not.

Thanks in advance,
Bruce

I thought that Safety Connect was supposed to be free the first year?

The service is free, the hardware is not.

Also, please note that SafetyConnect is only available on trim levels IV and V.

The only way to get Nav without SafetyConnect now is to get a level III.

agreed.

And the new codes are as follows:

III - Nav only is now the NW package. Was NV. Solar and Nav package is now the SW instead of SR. These will only have usb, no safety connect. Additional cost is $230 MSRP.

IV - Nav only is now the NY package. Was NV. Solar and Navi package is now the SY instead of SR. These will have both the USB and safety connect. Additional cost is $680 MSRP.

V - same as IV with SY exception. V has the AY code (vs. AT code). Additional cost is $680.

Sure it is mentioned elsewhere, but cost is free for the first year. $139 per year thereafter. Slight discount based on how many extra years you are buying. Plus tax if applicable of course.

I just picked up my Prius IV with nav system and solar roof. Yes they charge $690 for the Safety Connect and will not deliver a IV with navigation system w/o the Safety Connect

Since we had agreed on a price before the Toyota change, the dealer worked out a deal giving me more for my trade-in

I just picked up my Barcellona red IV today...I now have 70 miles on it! Loving it. It came with the Safety Connect as it was a required feature to have the iPod/USB port. HOWEVER, I cannot seem to get the iPod feature in my iPhone 3GS to work. My iPhone recognizes that it's connecting to something, but it just gives me a strange message about not being able to connect...and the only way I've successfully listened to music through my iPhone is with the Bluetooth streaming....which means I can't control the song playlists through the steering wheel...only via the iPhone interface. Nicer in some ways, but not as safe as Toyota would want I think.

Anyone have any real clear step by step directions on how they've gotten their iPhone 3GS to connect via the USB port to the Nav System???

How is the sound when streaming - is it as clear and pronounced as direct connect or CD/DVD?

I'm pretty sure the iPhone will only connect via bluetooth. The USB will charge your iPhone, but the documentation states iPhone won't work with USB.

I just bought a model IV yesterday with the USB / safety connect. On mine, there is a little mini plug right next to the USB port for direct connect of the Headphone output on the PMP to the AUX of the radio. Check to see if there is one on your car. You will have much better sound than via Bluetooth.

In my case, I have a Cowon S9 PMP that has much better sound fidility that either an I-Pod or a Zune. It connects via the USB and the sound through the 8 JBL speakers is great! I am able to browse though all my folders and select any song I like. (I know this doesn't really address your issue, but I couldn't resist plugging my Cowon S9. Sorry.)