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How does one identify a Gen-4 trim level?

Discussion in 'Gen 4 Prius Main Forum' started by bwilson4web, Mar 23, 2017.

  1. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

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    I saw one today in the parking lot but could not tell how to identify it. Other than the lack of rear window wiper for the Level Two ECO, what other distinguishing marks?

    LATE THOUGHT: take photo of VIN and use a VIN tracking package to see what shows up.

    Bob Wilson
     
    #1 bwilson4web, Mar 23, 2017
    Last edited: Mar 23, 2017
  2. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    the sticky table might have a clue, but i'm not sure there's anything else on the outside, besides trying to distinguish led's, fogs, wheels and such.
    edit: touring gets a unique rear bumper treatment? a couple have moonroof available.
    visible inside:
    both fours get the old style tonneau cover. cloth vs softex. bone china accents, 6" and 7" displays.
     
    #2 bisco, Mar 23, 2017
    Last edited: Mar 23, 2017
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  3. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

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    Some day @john1701a might write a 'Prius Spotting' handbook.

    Bob Wilson
     
  4. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    Four vs. Three/Two:

    • SofTex interior
    • Auto-dimming mirror w/ Homelink
    • Wheel cover with black accents will differentiate the Three/Four from the Two (which has a full silver wheel cover)
    That's the base Four. If the car has the following, it's definitely a Four
    • 12 ultrasonic sensors around the car (ICS)
    • large cutout on the dashboard fore of the steering wheel (HUD)
    • moonroof
    • JBL speakers (you'll see the JBL logo on the dashboard speakers)
    • BSM icon in the wing mirrors.

    Four Touring vs. Three Touring:
    • Heated seats (this one is harder to see)
    • Auto-dimming mirror w/Homelink

    If the Touring model has the following, it's definitely a Four Touring
    • 12 ultrasonic sensors around the car (ICS)
    • BSM icon in the mirrors.
    • JBL speakers
     
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  5. pattom

    pattom Junior Member

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    Where is the BSM icon on the side mirrors? I checked mine and don't see anything. Yes I do have BSM. My model 4 is fully loaded. I also have wondered how to tell the difference between models.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
  6. Harters

    Harters Active Member

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    It's at the very tip of the mirror glass. Looks like two cars with a couple of lines between them, they are feint and look like they are etched into the mirror.

    If you have BSM activated you will seem them flash amber everyime someone passes in your blind spot.
     
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  7. wrprice

    wrprice Active Member

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    They also light up briefly as a lamp check at power-on.
     
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  8. afob3

    afob3 Member

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    Good thread to watch. I drove a '17 last weekend and rather liked it. My timing isn't till end of this Summer and I've been scouting the few used Gen 4 cars that are starting to hit the market. This is good info as I look at used pics on Autotrader etc. After playing with the safety features that are now standard on the 17, I'd like to be able to spot them in pics of used 16's to see if they have that package. Is the LKA button on the right of the steering wheel the thing to look for?

    Still frustrated by the packaging scheme of the Gen 4 cars. I haven't figured out the compromise necessary to get as close to the 4 + sunroof that I have now. Spare tire is a requirement so I may need to budget or negotiate for that addition.
     
  9. bobthejedi

    bobthejedi Active Member

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    as mentioned before regarding the white china bone accents, The easy way to tell the two between the three/four is the steering wheel and center console are black and without QI charging. That's what I look for.

    That's probably a good strategy looking for the lane assist, there are also more buttons on the entune premium models starting with the 3 up.

    If there are front pics and they have decent pictures of the windshield area, then you can check for the camera in center top of the windshied. looks like a triangular trapezoid.

    If the its a three 2016 with a moonroof and HUD ala advanced tech package, its definitely has Safety sense, I would know as that's what I have.

    My only regret is maybe not splurging a little more for the 4 with advanced tech and the BSM and leather seats.

    The lack of spare tire in the 4's is frustrating for sure
     
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  10. pattom

    pattom Junior Member

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    I have a 2016 model 4 with all the safety packages. I was told that the plugs around the body are for the Park Assistance sensors.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
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  11. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    As well as Intelligent Clearance Sonar. There are 12 ultrasonic sonar sensors around the car.
     
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  12. pattom

    pattom Junior Member

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    Only trouble I have is driving our 08 without the tech stuff the 16 has.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
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  13. ATHiker

    ATHiker Senior Member

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    I have no real knowledge on this, but I assumed they also played a roll with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and the Blind Spot Monitor.
     
  14. wrprice

    wrprice Active Member

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    BSM yes, and those sensors are sonar-based. RCTA needs two additional, side-looking millimeter-wave radars. Those are hidden behind the rear skirt and are not visible.
     
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  15. Prodigyplace

    Prodigyplace 2025 Camry XLE FWD

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    The Two has a matte black center console. No white rings left over after an applique application.
     
  16. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    BSM and RCTA use millimeter-wave radar mounted behind the bumper, facing outwards towards the side of the car. The 12 ultrasonic sonar sensors are used for ICS and S-IPA.
     
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  17. yeldogt

    yeldogt Active Member

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    The touring models don't have a sunroof -- The 4T is a nice package if you don't want the SR