Why Alloy Wheels On Touring Covered Up?, Just wondering! Options

[Whiteyprius]

Are the alloy wheels on my 2008 Touring ugly or something? It just seems odd to have alloy, then cover them with plastic. I tried for a few minutes to pull the wheel covers but they weren't going to come off to easily, so I gave up. I was afraid that I would break the covers, then find out that the alloy was in fact ugly! Any experience with what's behind the veil, and if there's a special trick to taking off the covers? Thanks!