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Toyota Prius Touring 2009 vs 2010

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Joe Wall, Jan 8, 2019.

  1. Joe Wall

    Joe Wall Member

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    I found a pretty decent deal on a 2009 Toyota Prius for $7900 with 66,000 miles. What are the pros and cons to the Toyota Prius Touring 2009? The 2010 would be nicer due to the MPG but would have about 100,000 miles for $8000.

    Any advice? Any issues with either of these vehicles?
     
    bisco likes this.
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Do you know what a touring model has on it? 2009 has a smaller 1.5liter engine. 2010 has 1.8 liter
     
  3. Joe Wall

    Joe Wall Member

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    I know it has a backup camera. Do you want to know the generation of the Touring?
     
  4. Joe Wall

    Joe Wall Member

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    I would need to check on what is exactly on it. I can call tomorrow and followup.
     
  5. Skibob

    Skibob Senior Member

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    Biggest issue with the 2009 would be lack of battery exercise. Less miles is not always more with a hybrid.
     
  6. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    welcome!
    2009 is a nice year. you can put 15" wheels on if you want better mpg's. 2010 mpg's won't be better and they have a lot of problems.
    both cars are old and susceptible to expensive repairs, especially if you don't diy.

    all the best!(y)
     
  7. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    The 2009 Touring models have HIDs which have been problematic compared to the halogens on the Gen 2. The 2010 has an engine oil consumption potential after 100,000 miles (I just crossed that so I haven’t seen it yet but you can search the forums for those who are well past 100,000 miles).


    The 2009 is bulletproof (except for the HID) and is likely to be very reliable. The 2010 has a bit more power, better mpg and a smooth engine on/off shutdown.

    I guess do you wanna deal with headlight problems or engine problems. Both hybrid systems are reliable.
     
  8. Joe Wall

    Joe Wall Member

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    I chose the 2009 because of the engine problems. Any suggestions to increase the MPG? I'm getting 37.9 in the winter. They advertised at like 45 to 48.
     
  9. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    Use an engine block heater to preheat the engine. It’s more efficient to use electricity to preheat the engine block than to use gasoline (especially since the Prius engine is efficient which means it creates less heat byproduct).

    Below 32°F, block the lower air dam with foam pipe insulation (do a search for blocking grille or foam pipe insulation).

    In really cold temps (e.g. below -5 or -10°F), block half of the upper grille).

    Ensure your tire pressures are inflated. You lose 1 psi per 9°F drop.
     
    FireLawdZuko and srellim234 like this.
  10. wild desert

    wild desert New Member

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    Why do 15" wheels give better mpg than 16" wheels?
     
    #10 wild desert, Mar 24, 2024
    Last edited by a moderator: Mar 25, 2024
  11. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    it has something to do with 'sprung weight' i think? not an expert, just what i've read here