Haven't gotten my 05 yet, but have been looking at lots of pictures. There's one in the lib of a Taxi Prius that has a protector below the liftback so that the body is protected when items are being moved into and out of the back. That looks like a great idea and I"m surprised Toyota didn't put it there standard. I realized then that our 2001 is sort of the same way and while it's not terrible, there are some light scratches. Anyone know if Toyota or third part makes some type of protector? Obviously someone does cause that Taxi car has one.
A Rear Bumper Appliqué is an available accessory. This Polyurethane film provides protection against the scrapes and scratches that occur with everyday use. Features Prius pearl-coat logo with a UV protection to prevent yellowing and assure long-term durability. Accessories: 2005 Prius
Of course it is an add-on... you can get it, I think, from your dealer or order it from an after market seller... Rear Bumper Applique Loading and unloading cargo can take a toll on a painted bumper, Help protect your bumper from scratches with an anti-skid Rear Bumper Applique. PT747-47040 $40.50 http://www.partznet.com/toyota/prius/04EXTERIOR.html http://toyota.autowebaccessories.com/store.../cat385_475.php http://www.toyotapartsstore.com/default.ph...12929828d9edff7 Bob Andersen
Prior to receiving my '05, the pictures of the rear bumper applique appeared to me as a thin almost clear plastic with a design imbedded in it. I ordered it with my car. When the car arrived, there was a heavy black rubber protector glued on the top of the bumper. I like it much better than the one I thought I was getting.
The Prius taxi has the black Matrix bumper protector. There are other threads here discussing using the Matrix protector vs the Prius applique. For use as a taxi, the Matrix version is the way to go I'm sure. My car has the applique and so far, so good. BUT, I am mindful of its less rugged material so I try to lift over and figure the applique will catch the occasional 'oops'.
I removed my applique and installed the Matrix Protector after I had scratched through the applique. I got my Matrix protector from: http://www.brandsport.com/toy-pt278-02021.html They have a lot of Prius stuff too.
For those of you that have the Toyota applique, is it the clear one or the black rubber ones that have been described and how well has it held up?
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(tntna\";p=\"52032)</div> It's essentially clear, faint "Prius" logo stuff on it. The black one is actually for the matrix but several folks mention that they like the durability and slip resistance of that style.
The site now list the black protector under their Prius thread as well. Don't know if it has different dimensions or is just a relabeling of the same protector they sell for the Matrix.
Here's a pic of mine. It's the Matrix version, but fits just fine on my Prius. It just sticks onto the bumper with the included tape. Holds very solid and looks good too! Best to apply/install it when it's warm. Forms better, seemed to stick to the slight upward curves on either end. Drive fun, drive clean, drive Prius.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jchu\";p=\"52057)</div> Take another look! The Prius Bumper Protector is pictured as black but the description says CLEAR VINYL.
