Prius Interior Noise Test

Check out the noise isolation thread in audio forum. There's nothing in the doors.

 

I think it would be interesting to hear the results when comparing to a Gen III with 15" wheels & tires. Most of the noise seams to come from the GIII's choice of tires no matter what the size.

 

I test drove a 2010 Premium pkg (Prius III) and the interior noise level was disappointing. I didn't know what to expect but the engine noise while stationery was a low bass rumble. Dealer said it was cold (-16c, 3F) so we let the car sit for 20min in their garage while I learned about it. Test drove it and it was annoying, like I was in an econobox. I hoped it was an isolated case. I had been wanting a Prius for months and I didn't think I could find something to dissuade me.

Same night, I test drove at another dealer, the exact Prius I wanted: Touring (V), Blizzard Pearl. This time, the car was even colder, buried in snow. Even with 1/2 the warmup time as previous car, this Prius V sounded like a different car. But I'm not talking road noise. I heard the low end drone from the ICE and/or CVT just once at start, but once we got going, I totally forgot about it. Not as hush as my Accord when the ICE is engaged and driving, but within reason.

Now I'm waiting for delivery

 

I have a 2004 and with the right tires and adding insulation in the doors (dynamat type product) makes the car relatively quiet at highway speeds. It certainly is not like a Lexus, but I think Toyota should definitely install more sound insulating material in this car. Sure the mileage may suffer a tad, but I think most people would enjoy the car more. There is nothing as annoying as driving a car that is noisy on the road.

 

The engine buzz toned down a lot on my 2010 after it broke in just a little. Now I can hardly feel it run and I'm actually impressed with how smooth the four banger is.
I plan on changing the tires to Goodyear Assurance Comfort Treads and doing some sound insulation too.

 

The rough road test would definately be affected by the low profile tires, with shorter, stiffer side walls. Do you know anyone with a gen III with a model other than the V to make a comparison?