Toyota has pulled many rabbits out of the hat and the Prius is yet another trend setter in its segment. Toyota has left most other auto manufacturers behind with its second generation gas-electric hybrid vehicle, the Toyota Prius. This is a unique type of vehicle as yet not manufactured by many companies who are still behind on technology advancements. But Toyota leaves no wheel unturned in bringing out the 2009 Toyota Prius, now at MSRP of $22,000 to $24,270.
Three trims are available for this year, the base trim, 4-Door Liftback trim and the Touring Hatchback. The Prius has received rave reviews, with NewCar saying “The engine is so quiet that some of its owners refer to driving it as driving in the stealth mode”.
The Pruis is definitely touted to break all barriers in its 2009 setting. Currently, the fuel economy in city is 48 mpg while the car delivers economy of 45 mpg on highways. All trims are available with continuous variable transmission (CVT). The 5 door hatchback is definitely up there in terms of fuel economy, but it also scores well in many other aspects like styling and convenience. Of course, it is also low on emissions.
Performance and acceleration is no way compromised in the 2009 Toyota Prius. All trims come with a standard 1.1L l4 gasoline engine that delivers 110 hp. Hybrid Synergy Drive technology uses an electric drive motor with the standard engine to utilize fuel effectively. While making transportation environment friendly, the car also takes care of he ride quality. Driving is smooth and handling the car is not difficult. The interiors are pleasant and the exterior is stylish like most Toyota models. Automatic air conditioning, keyless entry, power mirrors and tilt steering wheel with climate control options are standard in the 2009 Toyota Prius.
The hatchback utility is a strong point. The cargo is roomy and the instrument panel is user friendly. Durability and reliability are hallmarks of any Toyota model, and the Prius is no less. Of course, many customers are wary of maintenance issues. But overall, the car leaves no room for complaint, because it is simply good enough for regular commuting as well as a long drive. The Prius also comes with vehicle stability system, tire pressure monitoring system and other features. It scores 4 on 5 in the NHTSA Frontal Crash Test for safety features.
The impressive fuel economy, pleasant design, standard safety and convenience features coupled with affordable pricing work well for this car.
2009 Toyota Prius Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Toyota Prius 4-door hatchback
Wheelbase, in. 106.3
Overall Length, in. 175.0
Overall Width, in. 67.9
Overall Height, in. 58.7
Curb Weight, lbs. 2932
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 14.4
Standard Payload, lbs. –
Fuel Capacity, gals. 11.9
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head Room, in. 39.1
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.9
Rear Head Room, in. 37.3
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 38.6
Engines dohc I4/electric
Size, liters/cu. in. 1.5 /91
Horsepower @ rpm. 110 @ 5000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. @
Availability Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
CVT automatic 48/45
Model Prices
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Standard 4-door hatchback $22,000 $20,680 $660
Base 4-door hatchback $23,375 $21,524 $660
Touring 4-door hatchback $24,270 $22,276 $660
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