Wasn't sure if this should go in the newbie section or not. Can't search archives with the term "II and III". The $1,000 difference between the II and III is just the radio with bluetooth? Anything else? I don't use bluetooth and I mainly listen to talk radio on satellite. Do the II's radios have XM where all I need to do is call and subscribe? The brochure reads "satellite radio capability" and for the JBL radio it reads "integrated satellite radio capability". So wanted to ask for some clarification. Thanks!
The site Toyota Prius Hybrid - 2010 Models: Prius II, Prius III, Prius IV, Prius V will give you all of the differences between the II and the III along with package options. As for the XM, I believe on the II that you will need to have a XM receiver installed as an option. Hopefully someone with a II will reply and let you know for sure.
Thanks for the link, I'll likely be looking at a III then as I'd like it integrated and who knows maybe someday I'll do the bluetooth thing. And on a lease it prob wont be that much more per month anyway. George
The Bluetooth hands-free phone system is a really nice feature. If you like XM radio and bluetooth, I would think it would be worth the extra $1000.
Your other option is to just put in an aftermarket radio - with a nice big screen and interface (and GPS). At the end of the lease, swap back the stock radio... You can get aftermarket with XM and Bluetooth for around $700.
But then again, if the OP ever puts in a CD, he can enjoy the excellent JBL sound system, which comes with better quality speakers and a separate JBL amp/DSP unit. So, $1000 difference is a tremendous bargain IMO.
That's right. And I believe you'd find the JBL amp mounted under the front passenger's seat. btw, I talked to the owner of a stereo install shop recently. I know he puts in some high quality systems and saw his crew working on a Lambo one time. Anyrate, he suggested a good system and install can run up into thousands of dollars. I got the keen impression that paying a shop $1,000 to put in a system would likely not get much. Lot of work to pull door panels, pull up carpets, trim. So, yes, the $1k upgrade is worth it except maybe not for DIY types.
Stock car audio seems to split owners into three groups: those that will *never* be satisfied by stock; those happy with the upgraded audio; and those who are happy pretty much with anything. The middle group seems to be the minority.
It's a good comment SageBrush but I won't go as far as to say I'd be happy with anything. I won't use the bluetooth and the satellite radio, so the only thing of value there to me was the JBL upgrade, which is worth maybe $400 to me. I would have purchased that by itself if I could have. That said, I didn't spend much time comparing radios before purchasing my II and I have been pleasantly surprised with the unit. Better than the upgraded stock radios on my previous two cars, very good imaging, good sound. I'd like the JBL unit but I like saving $700-1000 more .
