Originally I ordered a 2011 Solar Roof Prius 3. I cancelled it because I heard about the possibility of the 2012 models having Toyota's new EnTune system. I could afford to wait and I wondered what other new features 2012 might offer. Today, however, my dealer called and said the Solar Roof package does not exist as an option in the 2012 Prius model? What????
Having not seen it mentioned here, I'd assume they're lying to try and get you to buy at today's inflated prices. Yep, I'd trust them that much. A RAV4 driving friend was told by somebody at a Toyota dealership that Toyota was going to release a Prius crossover (it's a wagon) and not making the RAV4 any more.
I've had my solar since last fall and find that it's more effective in the winter since it's pulling in chilled, dry air vs the moist, hot air of the summer (which is still better than nothing).
So the panel is pulling in air from the winter during the summer? Where is it obtaining the air from? Does your Prius have one of these in it that allows it to time travel? and one of these?
Because, when I left work today, there was not a cloud in the sky and the temperature is 92F. My car, closed because of the thunderstorm this morning, nearly killed me. (and it is such a neat feature!)
He may mean it will not be available in the area you live. If it is still announced as an option for 2012, and you really want it, you may have to buy out of state in an area which will be allocated the solar roof option.
Since I can't build a 2012 MY Prius on Toyota's website & haven't heard of any announcements regarding availability except for the TRD package I am heavily discounting your dealer's statement. Ask to see the source. Bet you won't. IMO this is pure FUD to get you to buy now.
Would they change it from being an option in 2011 yet not an option in 2012? Minnesota summers have not gotten any cooler this year!
I find it doubtful but who knows... Anything could be possible I guess. I'd give it more time until solid information is out about the 2012's. I simply think they don't know at this point. Maybe a member on here who works for a dealer can confirm/deny if they know anything.
At least I can still order a 2011. I have some time. I thought I read that the ones the solar roof option were selling well. I don't know why they would abandon them.
Like I said, it's not been said they are abandoning them. I think your dealer is speaking prematurely. But again, no info is out and I still don't think they know. Again, I think your region may not get them if he is in fact right, BUT that is not to say they will stop making them. It means you will have to travel to get one...
First, don't believe a word a dealer, car salesman or any businessman, for that matter, says. Second, I like my solar roof on my 2010, but it is not very common. I see many Priuses every day but I would estimate only 5 to 10% have the solar roof.
I doubt it. There hasn't been any info on the 2012 released to the public. Now if the dealer has some info from Toyota, then maybe get him to show it to you (they'll have it on computer). If he can't show it to you, then I call BS (most product advisors are more than happy to share that kind of information with you).
You'll be surprised how useful it is up here. Getting into the 2005 is like sitting in a tandoor oven.
:smow: I live in Buffalo and love my solar roof on my Nissan Maxima. I am looking forward to getting it on my Prius that's coming in ~3-4 weeks. The fan cooling sounds great, but I like how much light it brings into the car.
Lars, did the sunroof cost as much as the solar panel roof on the Prius? It' s a very pricey gadget IMO.