With gas prices soaring high, it is quite impractical to get transportation that guzzles up gasoline and diesel fuel. Most, if not all, car buyers' first requirement when they consider buying a brand new car is the fuel efficiency factor. It is followed by the space-efficiency of the car to allow more passenger space and a wider cargo space to put baggage. The 2009 Toyota Prius has the combined fuel- and space-efficiency to meet almost any requirement.

Three Trim Levels

What is interesting about this midsize hatchback 2009 Toyota Prius is that it is wonderfully available in three trim levels. One can choose whether to stay with the Standard, take a leap to the Base, or soar high with Touring. The standard model has 15-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, keyless entry, touch screen, steering-wheel controls, tilt-only steering wheel, and a hybrid system display. The Base trim, in addition to what the Standard Model has, has a cruise control system, a cargo cover and heated mirrors. The Touring trim has a sportier suspension, 16-inch wheels, fog lights, xenon headlights, and a larger rear spoiler.

The Prius' Base and Touring trims do have extensive options, which can give this economy car a feeling of a luxury car. Buyers of the 2009 Toyota Prius can have in their cars an auxiliary audio jack, a rearview camera, and a keyless ignition/entry. They can also add Bluetooth, an alarm system, an upgraded nine-speaker JBL stereo, xenon headlights and fog lights. Aside from that, a voice-activated navigation system, leather-trimmed seats, and custom-made steering wheel may also be added.

Spacious and Comfortable

Prius stands out against other sedans because of its funky design. More so, it has spacious cabin and comfortable seats, which makes its space-efficient body unique. The backseat gives plenty of room for adults and it can accommodate rear-facing infant seats. It has a wide area of legroom so that traveling hundreds of miles won't be leg-cramping anymore. It has a 14.4-cubic-foot hatchback trunk that is large enough to house several roller suitcases, double strollers, or golf clubs. It also has a folding seatbacks feature that will provide a bigger cargo area. There is no other sedan that can match the interior design and features of the 2009 Toyota Prius.

Airbags

The 2009 Toyota Prius is loaded with accident-protector airbags that ensure the protection of both the driver and its passenger. Among them are antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, and full-length side curtain airbags as well as front-seat side airbags to protect the driver and passenger from unexpected or sudden frontal impacts. The Base and Touring Trim level are provided with a Stability Control System.

Hybrid Synergy Drive

The 2009 Toyota Prius has a special Hybrid Synergy Drive located underneath its hood. This Hybrid Synergy Drive drivetrain consists of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and has two electric motors, one of which is functioning exclusively as a generator that allows the car's battery pack to recharge. This is also the first one with front wheel drive. The power is routed to a specialized automatic transmission that is continuously variable. The gas engine is so powerful that it produces up to 76 horsepower and 82 pound-feet of torque. The power delivery of its engine motor is smooth and consistent while it is cruising or while running on its top speed.