Alloy wheels of 2nd generation.

Hi there. I own a 4th generation prius now but back in 2008 I test drove and purchased a new 2nd generation Prius.
When I asked the question about the wheel trims on top of alloys , the sales man informed me that they are to protect the £800 each titanium wheels.
Having taken the wheels off for puncture repairs and seen them raw, they looked like standard auminium alloy. Can anybody enlighten me.?