High Tech Prius
For me, one of the most appealing aspects of Prius is the geek factor. I love things like the nav, the backup camera, the automated solar cooling system. I love how seamlessly those features perform. So one area I’ve been critical of the Prius has been electronics. While the Prius is one of the most advanced vehicles on the road electronically, it’s also behind the times in some areas. iPod integration, not just an AUX input, but true integration has been a sticking point. Why has there been a USB charging port built into Prius rather than the archaic (however admittedly universal) 12 volt lighter plug? These are all on my wish list for upcoming Prius models.
One reason why competition is good is that it pushes companies to do more. With SYNC, Ford is pushing Toyota hard, real hard. SYNC offers voice control over many of the vehicle functions as well as an ever growing set of media and internet functions. I don’t know that I need voice activation for the climate system in the Prius but it would be nice to see that iPod integration put into the built-in touch screen panel.