My V doesn't say anything, she just laughs at my brother-in-law for buying a Dodge Charger R/T as his 'family car'.
I'm a professional photographer, Former Marine, and Apple Fanboy. I love my prius V. I think the hybrid technology is cool and that's why I have it, along with the fact that I can transport all my photography gear, light stands, etc., without driving an SUV. I'm not a tree hugger or a wuss. So your kid's wrong.
Starting in 1978, every car I have owned has been the most frugal station wagon available. The v is no different than the Mazda 808 mizer, the Mazda GLC, the Ford Escort, the Toyota Corolla All-Trac (20 years) or the Subaru Forester, the Toyota Prius. I owned Apples from 1978 to 2008, although the last one I purchased was a 1995 model, PM 7500. Since I came from a Toyota Prius (which was hit by a semi trailer) I guess my v means"well, I needed more room than that".
My v doesn't say anything either. Occasionally it does burp or cough...haha Seriously, the demographics would offer an actual ownership insight. Yet then there is the intangible - what other people think...which I think is the OP's question. I venture the guess that other people think v owners are married with children and have a dislike of the soccer mom nomenclature. Therefore, my guess other people think "distracted and slow driver - get out of my way!" Again only a guess....no science. Now a v with an NRA sticker on the rear glass...that changes everything...haha.
Two v wagons in the family. Both chosen for utility. The second bought used based on a 120miles Prius and my v experience (35k). I stopped by my grandkids school the other day and there were 4 v wagons parked nearby. I haven't had anyone comment on the car since its very early days. So not a statement car to me.
