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Not Your Father’s Prius - The 2008 Toyota Prius Base

March 13th, 2009

Toyota Prius

Consumers who buy a Toyota Prius are often enthusiastic about their purchase. Since its launch the Prius has been one of the workhorses of the Toyota brand. This has always been a meaningful car, and the 2008 model is no different. A hatchback for everyone in the family is what the Toyota Prius provides.

Toyota Prius Engine Specs

The restyled Prius Base is equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The engine is mated to a N/A four-speed transaxle. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2007 version.

The Prius uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are drum. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The car uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.

The fuel system for the 2008 Prius is a traditional SFI, running on ELECTRIC/GAS fuel. The fuel is controlled by an electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The capacity of the fuel tank is 11.90 gallons.

Vehicle Statistics

The dimensions of the Prius Base are 67.90 inches wide by 175.00 inches long. It sits 58.70 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 4 doors. The wheelbase of 106.30 allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers.

A powertrain guarantee is provided (60,000 miles/60 months), and a 36,000 mile, 36 month guarantee also comes with the Toyota Prius. This is standard for the price range.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $22,475 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $20,695. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Hatchback.

MPG Ratings

The 2008 Prius gets 45 miles/gallon on the highway and only 48 in the city. This is subpar for a hatchback car.

The vehicle is available in Barcelona Red Metallic, Black, Classic Silver Metallic, Driftwood Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Seaside Pearl, Silver Pine Metallic, Spectra Blue, and Super White.

What We Think of the Toyota Prius

There are several reasons why the Toyota Prius Base sold well in 2008. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Toyota, specifically a Prius.

Karen 2008, Prius, Toyota , , , ,

  1. March 18th, 2009 at 18:13 | #1

    greate car, i would like to have it

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