Generation III and Prius "v" frame reinforcing brackets

My study of Prius frame reinforcing goes on.

Quietly Toyota upgraded the earlier "L" shaped Generation III Prius with a "triangular" front rocker to frame bracket. I see the newer verslon on my Prius "v."

I had ordered a Cusco front chassis reinforcement brace, but canced the order when I found out that the Tanabe Sustec TUB153F front brace will work on the "v." Instead, I ordered the Tanabe and will report on how it fits.

If you have the older "L" brackets, you might eventually want to try to find the improved "triangular" ones in the wrecking yard. They are nearly $50 each at the dealer, but might be worth it, if you have the Tanabe two point brace.

The photos show both versions,

 

I don't know of the 2012 liftback. All I know is that the Cusco 951-492F front brace fits all 2010's through 2012's and the Prius "v." Since the installation of the Cusco brace replaces the original "L' or "triangular" brackets, they must be interchangeable.

Toyota would not have improved the bracket, if there was not a significant need to do so.