Rear view visibility problem

The rear spoiler (larger on Gen III) is an important part of the aerodynamics of the car which are critical to our great gas mileage. I'm guessing our CD (coefficient of drag) is one of the best in the world, possibly matching or exceeding exotic sports cars.

 

I'm sorry I beg to differ form several other prius owners. I've been driving my beloved '03 Prius and I'm at point that i am considering selling it all due to what I see as a great danger...the many blind spots...Left front post and the ridiculous rear view. (1) I have to check the rt mirror, rearview, over shoulder and rt mirror again and pray no one is to the right of me before i venture into the lane to the right of me. (2) I have 20 -20 vision but I've come close to running over people as a I attempte a turn due to that blasted driver side pillar. (3) Backing up with that very limited rear view is taking a gamble. The rear camera does not help as much as one would think. Why did Toyota shade so much of the rear view!!?

I participated in one of those round table discussions to give our opinion to Toyota people about the then new Prius. I praised it as I truly think it is wonderfully designed car. I said I was disappointed to find as many blind spots on the car and mentioned speciffically the right and rear view, most other particapants agreed. The representative told us that Toyota was well aware of this short coming and that future models would improve the both views. I awaited the Prius III and was very disappointed to see little has changed in the design of the car.

So for those of you who are consideing a Prius I say it is a great car but "buyer beware" and take a nice long test drive especially on a freeway where you have to change lanes. And try parking parallel. That too will challenge you

 

A ) Thats why they have side view mirrors
B ) Thats why there is a backup camera

Cant get any better rear view then that!