2010 was the first year of Gen 3, 2011 was no change, and 2012 was a cosmetic refresh. So I bet 2013 and maybe 2014 are just minor option/color changes. Gen 4 may be late 2014 or 2015, either way as a 2015 model year. Just my opinion.
Probably minor changes, if any. Perhaps a rear view camera will be standard in all models, and maybe an exterior color change or 2.
You most certainly will not see the gen IV for 2013. Probably not 2014 and 2015 neither. It is also highly doubtful you will see exterior changes. Probably, if anything, color changes, package changes, more packages... Who knows, nothing is available for release yet.
I'd say that '12 was more than a cosmetic refresh, as there were changes in the packages, standard features (e.g. color touchscreen, USB and Bluetooth support all became standard on model Two) and options along w/some feature additions and deletions. But yes, it's almost a certainty that the '13 Prius will not be the next generation.
I hope the gen 4 changes the confining "flying buttress" console. I will be driving one when that happens, .
Agreed, having owned a 2006, 2010 and now 2012 I much prefer the 'connected center' to the dash over the 2006 or Gen II.
MY 12 was the mid-cycle refresh. According to Car and Driver magazine, there are no changes for MY 13.
What might be nice would be to make it removable so both camps can be happy. It took me a while to get used to it but now I'm fine with the thing. I just would like to somehow make the tray underneath more useful. Perhaps bungie nets or something on the sides so you could safely put larger items in there. A project for the near future.
I wouldn't miss the flying buttress console. I've gotten used to it. But I miss the separation in my Gen2 that allowed the cup holders to be in a decent position. And I really miss the little drawer underneath the console, where I used to store little packs of kleenex. In my Gen3, I keep my umbrella in the tray underneath, because it won't fit in the door pockets. Would like bigger door pockets again, now that I think about it.
i don't mind the bridge, i would just like to see some useful space on it. move/change the shifter, move the cupholders forward, add a tray, phone and coinholder, etc.
Want better MPG and more power. Gen 4 come on! Need to add Gen3's seats to c. Gen 2 seats in c are uncomfortable.
I agree, the new console is cool after you get used to it. I miss the little drawer too, the bigger door pockets, and the little tray in the armrest. A few features I miss on the Gen II, but Gen III has a lot of other improvements to off-set the little ones.