2009 Toyota Prius Features Review

February 19, 2009

FEATURES | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Comes well-equipped, with options only offered in packages
ForbesAutos

Can be loaded with such high-tech features as a rearview monitor and DVD navigation
Kelley Blue Book

Option packages are "capable of transforming this hybrid from an economy car to a near-luxury sedan
Edmunds

For 2009 Toyota has broadened the Prius’ appeal with models that start out spartan but can be equipped up to the levels of a luxury car.

ForbesAutos reports that the 2009 Toyota Prius "comes well-equipped, with options only offered in packages." Edmunds asserts that those optional features packages, of which there are five, are "capable of transforming this hybrid from an economy car to a near-luxury sedan." Edmunds adds that some of the more noteworthy optional features on Toyota's 2009 Prius include "a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system with an in-dash six-CD changer" and "leather upholstery and steering wheel" that replaces the standard cloth treatment on the seats. ConsumerGuide also notes that a "navigation system" and "antiskid system" are available as options on the Toyota Prius Touring edition.

When it comes to standard features, the 2009 Toyota Prius doesn't disappoint. Kelley Blue Book notes that "every Prius features...illuminated remote keyless entry, AM/FM stereo with CD," and a "tilt-wheel with touch controls." Moving up from the Standard to the Base models of the Toyota Prius, Edmunds finds that this Toyota 2009 "adds cruise control, different wheels and heated sideview mirrors," while the top-of-the-line Touring edition brings standard "16-inch wheels and Xenon headlights."

However, Cars.com notes that standard features "like cruise control and minor accessories have been deleted from the base trim level to lower the cost." While these features have been eliminated as standard fare, they have not been removed entirely from the Toyota Prius. If buyers still want cruise control, they can add it as an option.

Conclusion

With a laundry list of available high-tech options, the 2009 Toyota Prius allows you to save the planet in style.

FEATURES | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:Comes well-equipped, with options only offered in packagesForbesAutosCan be loaded with such high-tech features as a rearview monitor and DVD navigationKelley Blue BookOption packages are "capable of transforming this hybrid from an economy car to a near-luxury sedanEdmunds For 2009 Toyota has broadened the Prius’ appeal with models that start out spartan but can be equipped up to the levels of a luxury car. ForbesAutos reports that the 2009 Toyota Prius "comes well-equipped, with options only offered in packages." Edmunds asserts that those optional features packages, of which there are five, are "capable of transforming this hybrid from an economy car to a near-luxury sedan." Edmunds adds that some of the more noteworthy optional features on Toyota's 2009 Prius include "a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system with an in-dash six-CD changer" and "leather upholstery and steering wheel" that replaces the standard cloth treatment on the seats. ConsumerGuide also notes that a "navigation system" and "antiskid system" are available as options on the Toyota Prius Touring edition. When it comes to standard features, the 2009 Toyota Prius doesn't disappoint. Kelley Blue Book notes that "every Prius features...illuminated remote keyless entry, AM/FM stereo with CD," and a "tilt-wheel with touch controls." Moving up from the Standard to the Base models of the Toyota Prius, Edmunds finds that this Toyota 2009 "adds cruise control, different wheels and heated sideview mirrors," while the top-of-the-line Touring edition brings standard "16-inch wheels and Xenon headlights." However, Cars.com notes that standard features "like cruise control and minor accessories have been deleted from the base trim level to lower the cost." While these features have been eliminated as standard fare, they have not been removed entirely from the Toyota Prius. If buyers still want cruise control, they can add it as an option. ConclusionWith a laundry list of available high-tech options, the 2009 Toyota Prius allows you to save the planet in style.  2009 TOYOTA PRIUS STYLING | [7 out of 10] Cars.com: "Styling has driven the car's success" ConsumerGuide: "Cabin has its own hi-tech look but materials are nothing special" Edmunds: "Upscale, if not a little oddball" When the Toyota Prius launched its current iteration in 2004, it ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The 2009 Toyota Prius dominates the highly fuel-efficient compact car class, but it does have a couple of interesting competitors. The Volkswagen Jetta TDI is a 50-state-certified clean-diesel vehicle that delivers excellent fuel economy and is more fun to drive than the Prius. And in the SportWagen body style, the Jetta is even more spacious and versatile than the Prius. The Honda Civic Hybrid approaches the Prius' fuel economy numbers, but has a little less interior room.

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See the Toyota Prius in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

Comments (2 total)

  1. By George Lauster Sr #1, Posted: 2/22/2009

    2008 Prius

    This the worst car I have ever drove in the winter and on wet roads. The traction control needs a switch to shut it off. I have almost been rear-ended a couple of times.

  2. By AutoBoy #2, Posted: 9/10/2009

    while not an owner, having driven the prius on a couple of occasions, i have to say it is impressive to a point. that point is passed when it comes to navigating wet roads. things feel quite "loose" - as if losing control is a distinct possibility (and not because there is any overly aggressive driving mixed in)

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