More proof Toyota needs to add a 3rd row of seating to the Prius V
More potential with a thrid row of seating?
Is Toyota blowing a big opportunity?
According to the car folks over at InsideLine, the larger Toyota Prius V is a better car than the current Prius, offering not just more cargo and passenger room, but also a better overall driving experience.
More interesting, however, is that those willing to offer a positive comment about the Prius V want a third row of seating.
In last week’s post, European Prius V offers seating for 7, why not US version?, I wondered why Toyota wouldn’t at least offer a third-row of seating as an option in the US if such a feature will be standard in Europe and Japan.
It seems there could be a battery issue. Turns out the Prius V will use a NiMH battery pack currently found in all Toyota hybrid cars. However, the European and Japanese versions – where a third row will be offered – will use a lithium-ion battery pack.
Perhaps, Toyota doesn’t believe most Americans care about a third row, therefore, it’s more cost-effective to use a NiMH battery pack? Or maybe Toyota’s lithium battery packs aren’t ready for the kind of demand potential that Toyota believes the Prius V might garner in the US versus Europe?
I don’t know, but those that seem to have an interest in the larger Prius V also seem to be very interested in a third row of seating based on the comments at InsideLine. Certainly, that’s not consumer science, but it still says something.
If I’m not mistaken, if you don’t want to use the third row seat, it folds down, essentially acting just like the 5 seat version. In my opinion, it’s a nice option to have when you need to a throw a couple extra kids in the back. Certainly, I doubt an adult would want to squeeze back there, but a couple 10 year olds might fit well enough.
After seeing the pictures of the 3rd row seats, I am glad Toyota is bringing the 5 seater version only. The third row is not bad, probably more roomy than Volt’s 2nd row seats. I just don’t think it is up to Prius’ roomy standard.