3G connectivity going away on most all Prius v models...

Received roughly same 3G end of life message regarding a fixed alarm system using a different provider. Initial guidance was ‘replace it, or it dies’, which was cost and services prohibitive. Latest guidance is it will revert to a broadband only backhaul, which is acceptable.

Our 2012 v Five had no 3G services installed. It is possible to access a number of Toyota Entune services via a Bluetooth-linked 4G cellphone in the cabin.

 

The only Prius v affected by the 3G retirement is the Five with the Advanced Technology Package and an active subscription to the telematic services.

Edit: I hadn't noticed that only the 2012-2016 Prius v is affected. The 2017 Prius v Five with ATP must have gotten the 4G version of the telematics which is surprising for a model in its final year.

 

Final year in US. The Prius v continued to be sold as the Prius + in other markets. It makes a great Taxi Cab. It is only the US market with its obsession with All Wheel Drive and huge wheels, and high ground clearance of Crossover SUVs that killed the V in the US.

4G might explain the changed MFD with a new faceplate ID (510057 became 510165), but little or no other differences.

 

The Prius v got one additional year in Canada after it was discontinued in the U.S. The Prius v, "+" and "a" got 2 to 3 more years in other markets but is no longer sold anywhere.

It would have required a complete redesign to save the Prius v and its siblings and then it would have turned into something quite different. The more modern Toyota hybrids I've been in ride nicer, are quieter and get better fuel economy than our Prius v.

 

If they would only stop selling them with:

1) 19 inch rear wheels (Venza)
2) AWD (Rav4 Hybrid)
3) Greater ground clearance.
4) non-sliding back seat.​

What makes the Prius V such a good Taxi / Uber car is its back seat is so easy to get in and out of. Add to that, the great Headroom and Legroom in the back seat (with a Sliding back seat to optimize rear Cargo space vs. legroom). The low ground clearance might be an issue with snow, but it makes the seat height optimal for picking up / dropping off passengers. Having smaller rear wheels permits wider rear doors. I have had passengers who are 6 foot 4 tell me how amazed they are that they fit comfortably in my Prius.

Unfortunately, Americans don't consider back seat ergonomics at all during a test drive. It is all about making that sale.

 

2012 v Five with 49,000 miles, and a keeper, here, too!