I am trying to decide b/w a Prius III (fabric seats, no NAV, no backup camera, etc.) or a Prius IV (leather, NAV, and all the other tech bells and whistles). The price difference is a little over $5,000 between the two models. If I don't get the IV, I will probably pay a $1,000 to upgrade the seats to after-market leather. The IV interior definitely looks "cooler" and more high tech than the III interior. But, are the tech bells and whistles (the NAV, etc.) in the IV actually worth it? Any thoughts? Thanks!
I would have bought the radar cruise control and lane assist if it had been offered in the lower priced models. These provide well documented improvements in safety and reductions in cross-country driving load. But it was only available in the 'top of the line.' Bob Wilson
I have no regret with my Prius IV; I think the solar moon roof adds character to the car and I would have bought the Prius V if they offered such Below is what comes with the IV that doesn't come with the III. Driver and front passenger water-repellent side windows Safety connect Leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel with driver seat power lumbar support and heated front seats with bottle holders in front doors. SKS - unlock passenger side and hatch Plasmacluster ionizer Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver
You know, your not the first person to ask. My answer, is you've got to decide for yourself. Savings or Sweetness? Keep in mind, that in the end when we are heading towards that bright light with the faint shadows of loved ones that have passed away before us and our life flashes before our eyes we probably aren't going to take too much comfort in the money we saved by going economical. When my life replays? I want to say, there I am...sitting on the leather...and punching my Nav Computer....with my heated seats....NOT there I am, looking at my bank statement and enjoying the slightly bigger number. If it's NOT a matter of make or break budget, I say in general? Go Nicer.
Being in LV, perhaps consider the Solar Roof option? (either on the III or IV). Also, would cloth be easier to sit on in the summer? On the other hand, the IV looks a little more upscale with the nav screen and the leather interior. I do like the feel of the leather-wrapped steering wheel and as nice as the cloth is, it never wore well on our 2005 Prius which is another reason why I went with leather.
Thanks for all your thoughts! I think I will just bite the bullet and just go with the upscale IV--particularly since Toyota now has 0% financing for 60 mos.
