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2010 vs. 2009

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by dschwalm, Nov 5, 2010.

  1. dschwalm

    dschwalm New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 5, 2010
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    Location:
    austin
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    I
    OK - my wife wants to purchase a Prius. We can get a 2010 basic model for $17,500 with 24k miles or a 2009 basic model for $14,500 with 38k miles. Is the $3000 premium worth going for the 2010 model with 15k miles less? I think it is but would like to get some input from other owners.
    Thanks in advance.
     
    #1 dschwalm, Nov 5, 2010
  2. paprius4030

    paprius4030 My first Prius

    Joined:
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    Location:
    York,Pa.
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    Since I had a 08 (which is identical to an 09) and now a 2010 I'll give you my quick 2 cents. It really depends on what's important to you or not. For me the big difference between the 2 is:

    1. Front seat comfort is much better with 2010 especially if your tall. Seat goes back farther and stering wheel is both tilt and telescoping. Some people like the new bridge and console, some don't. I didn't initally but doesn't bother me now.

    2. MPG's is even better with 2010 especially noticed with highway driving. Lifetime avg. with my 08 was 46.7 and my 2010 so far with 25k. mi on it is 49.7mpg.

    3. 2010 doesn't seem to wear out tires as fast as the 08.

    Like the exterior styling better with the 08 but that's a very subjective thing.

    The big improvements for me is the increase in mpg's and the better front seat comfort, is that woth 3 grand to you? Only you can answer that.

    PS. Our local dealer here is advertising brand new 2010 out the door for $18 grand and change, unless your looking at one with an expensive pkg, the one your looking at seems a tad high. Good luck.

    The new 2010 have $1000 rebate now so that makes a used 2010 worth less also.
     
    #2 paprius4030, Nov 5, 2010
  3. fotomoto

    fotomoto Senior Member

    Joined:
    Apr 22, 2009
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    Location:
    So. Texas
    Vehicle:
    Other Hybrid
    Anything with less than 3yr/36000 miles is still eligible for the extended 6 yr/100,000 mile warranty available here on PC for $1k.

    The dealer down here in CC (4 hrs from Austin) where I just bought my 2010 has a blue 09 Touring with only 13k miles for $16,900 which somewhat splits the differences of your two listings.

    Their extended warranty charge was offered to me $1800. I *cough* politely declined. You don't have to get the PC warranty upfront but have until either the 3yr (starting from time of first sale) or 36k miles comes up first.

    http://priuschat.com/forums/sponsor...rius-extended-warranty-service-contracts.html
     
    #3 fotomoto, Nov 5, 2010
  4. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
    Staff Member

    Joined:
    Oct 2, 2004
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    Location:
    Canada
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    2010 adds:


    • Driver's Knee Airbag
    • Updated Traction Control
    • Vehicle Stability Control (opt. for 2009)
    • Active Front Headrests
    • Exhaust Heat Recovery System (replaced coolant thermos system)
    • Cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation System
    • More efficient engine (completely beltless, torquier and more powerful)
    • Better mpg (both city and highway)
    • Better rear headroom (due to the reshaping of the roof)
    • Better rear kneeroom (due to new front seat designs)
    • More cargo space (width, depth and height due to more compact battery ventilation system)
    • LED taillights (uses 88% less power than the previous halogen taillights)
    • Slightly wider tyres and better suspension for a more competent ride
    • New gas tank (no more flexible rubber bladder inside the fuel tank)
    • Rear disc brakes
    • Aerodynamic front wipers
    • EV/ECO/PWR drive modes to alter the Prius' personality
    • Telescopic steering wheel
    • One-Touch Power Windows
    • Touch Tracer display
    • Variable Speed Power Rear Windows
    • Illuminated Power Window Switches
    • Driver's door Touch-Sensitive SKS (base 2009 Prius had no SKS)
    • Automatic Door Locks (Drive-Away Function)
    • Nearly flat rear center hump
    • Strengthened underbody brace
    • Hill-Start Assist
    • Height Adjustable Driver's Seat
    • Acoustic Windshield
    • Auxiliary Input Jack (opt. for 2009)

    and depending on how basic the 2009 is, it might not have:

    Cruise Control, Heated Mirrors, Trim Rings for Alloy Wheels, Tonneau Cover or seatback pockets

    Now tell me if it's worth $3,000 more.
     
    #4 Tideland Prius, Nov 5, 2010
  5. dschwalm

    dschwalm New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 5, 2010
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    Location:
    austin
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    I
    I test drove both - there is no comparison - the 2010 is so much more refined. I am going to find a 2010. I wish the local dealers were offering one for 18k - I would pick it up in a heartbeat.
    Thanks everyone.



     
    #5 dschwalm, Nov 6, 2010
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