The NHW20 received some mid-life improvements in 2006. Notable was fixing the MFD soldering problem. So to, the NHW11 only had three years before it was replaced with the NHW20 but notable changes included making cruise control standard. It is reasonable to expect a mid-life improvements in the ZVW30.
We know backup cameras will become standard by 2013. This means the graphical display is coming back but whether or not Toyota returns to the integrated display of the earlier models remains unlikely.
I would like to see "fuel exhaustion you are now on battery" provided as another safety feature. Unlike the 1.5L models, Toyota hid this safety notice so only by monitoring the energy flow can a clueful driver know when the last of the fuel is burned.
Now the Prius V addresses the 'station wagon' version to directly complete with the Jetta SportsWagen. The mini-Prius, the commuter version, will be out next year. Also, the plug-in Prius. But there are a few holes in the line-up:
o hybrid panel van - take a Highlander and fix the body so there is a utility van version and possibly an after-market, mini-RV.
o hybrid pickup - take a Highlander (or Prius V) and chop the body so it is a two-seater or put in a front bench and then a flat-bed, pickup bucket behind it. Give it some towing capability.
Bring back the bladder, only if the variable fill problem is solved. But the goal should an improved fuel monitoring system that is accurate and keeps the driver informed about the exact fuel state. Include a software hook so the indicated MPG can be calibrated for the car including dealing with different tire sizes.
Provide the same instrumentation as the default displays of the ScanGauge: (1) coolant temperature, (2) engine rpm, and (3) fuel consumption per unit of time. This would provide exactly the data needed to efficient driving.
Put cooling air inlet vanes that minimize air drag. When the car is cold, close the vanes, even in the summer, until the engine and inverter coolant reach operational temperature. Then open only as much as needed to provide adequate cooling flow.
Inside, it would be nice to see the center bridge go away. I know it insulates the driver but we don't need 'walls' and it isn't clear that it contributes to safety or structure.
Make sure the non-USA Prius still have the option of turning off the pedestrian noise maker. There are ways to making a Prius noisy that can never be defeated but they are not needed. Let the USA foolishness show up on the roads until a future Congress 'gets a clue.'
Midlife Prius, a low profile, sports car with the largest electric capability; a turbo-charged light-weight ICE; tuned steering, and; independent rear wheel suspension (or rear-wheel motor.) Tune the car for 0-60 in under 6 seconds and high-G turns with steering that actually tracks yet responds with precision.
Bob Wilson