Overview & Reviews
Capitalizing on the success of the original Prius, the Toyota Prius C is a smaller and more urban-friendly variant. The Prius C's smaller dimensions allow for a downsized hybrid powertrain and a lighter curb weight. These, in turn, result in improved driving dynamics while returning nearly identical fuel economy figures to its larger sibling. As further enticement, a new Prius C rings in several thousand dollars less than the standard Prius liftback.
Sacrifices made in the name of pricing are few, and are generally limited to ride and interior refinement. Considering the Prius C's strengths of unmatched fuel economy, nimble handling (for a hybrid) and hatchback versatility, we think it's a pretty smart choice for an affordable economy car, hybrid or not.
Current Toyota Prius C
The Toyota Prius C debuted in the 2012 model year as a smaller, entry-level alternative to the standard Prius liftback. The smaller size places it in the four-door subcompact segment. As one would expect, the Prius C is powered by a smaller, less powerful version of the hybrid powertrain used in its larger stablemates.
A 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine is paired with two electric motor/generators that combine to produce 99 horsepower. The gas engine both drives the wheels and charges the nickel-metal hydride batteries, while the electric motors augment propulsion and charge the battery under deceleration. Power is sent through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the front wheels. The Prius C obviously won't provide much in the way of excitement, but its performance is adequate, and owners will likely find satisfaction with an EPA-estimated 53 mpg city/46 mpg highway and 50 mpg in combined driving.
The Toyota Prius C is available in trim levels that are numbered from One to Four. Standard feature highlights for the Prius C One include 15-inch wheels, automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and a USB/iPod interface. The Prius C Two adds cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, 60/40-split-folding rear seats and an upgraded sound system. The Prius C Three is further enhanced with navigation, keyless ignition/entry, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system and satellite radio. Finally, the Four adds alloy wheels, heated mirrors, faux leather upholstery and heated front seats. Sixteen-inch wheels and quicker-ratio steering are optional on the Four, while a sunroof is available on both the Three and Four.
While the Toyota Prius C is pretty similar to other Prius vehicles, there are a few distinct differences to be aware of. Taller drivers may find it hard to be comfortable due to a lack of steering wheel adjustment range, while the front passenger's footwell is limited by an intruding glovebox. Backseat adult passengers, by contrast, will enjoy ample head- and legroom. The cabin suffers from an overabundance of hard plastic surfaces, which give the Prius C a decidedly cut-rate feel.
Hybrid vehicles in general, and the Prius lineup in particular, tend to be rather dull and uninspiring to drive. The Prius C, with its more compact dimensions, manages to inject a little liveliness into the mix, with more responsive steering and composed handling. Unfortunately, this added athleticism results in some ride harshness. But considering the Toyota Prius C's miserly fuel consumption and its favorable pricing, these faults are pretty easily forgiven.
Used Toyota Prius C Models
The Toyota Prius C debuted in 2012. Since then, changes have been very minor.
User Reviews:
Showing 21 through 30 of 84.00-
Great little car - 2012 Toyota Prius c
By main1462 - April 23 - 6:35 amI bought a red Prius C Two a week ago, and its as good as advertised. I live in a small town, so most of my trips are no more than 4 miles one way. Im averaging 57 mpg right now. I owned a Prius sedan before this, and the Prius C hybrid system seems to warm up faster, which translates to better mileage on shorter trips. The ride is smooth. It really is a fun car to drive. Im very happy with this car so far.
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Better than expected - 2012 Toyota Prius c
By oddsandends - March 26 - 12:12 pmAt six foot four, I expected to be ridiculously cramped. At 1.5 liters, I expected it to be ridiculously slow. Neither are true. I dont have an excess of room, but theres enough. It doesnt have an excess of acceleration, but its enough. I just manage my drive carefully and am rewarded with 60+ mpg on my morning commute. I also own a BMW 740i that I bought used for 1/3 of what I paid for the Prius C. When I need to go fast, I take it out. Otherwise, I am very pleased with my little gas-sipper. Build quality is good, ride is quiet, and there is room for groceries. Id buy it again tomorrow.
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Acceleration Issues - 2015 Toyota Prius c
By lolo1234567 - March 12 - 4:55 amUnfortunately, I cannot recommend this car. Although it does get great mileage it doesnt perform at the advertised MPG on the highways. I typically average between 38-42 MPG and drive no faster than 70 MPH. When in traffic or the city the cars MPG really shine. The car does not accelerate or have enough power to make the drive feel safe. Even when flooring the accelerator, frequently I enter the highway under the speed limit. The car also seems like it is struggling to maintain highway speed. On hills the car is terrifying, it loses all umph and rapidly decelerates. The car also rolls backwards similar to a manual when attempting to accelerate up hill from a stop.
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Worst Car I Have Ever Driven - 2016 Toyota Prius c
By Marty - October 16 - 7:38 amBuy this car if you want to fulfill your eco penance. I rent a car 4 months of the year for work, and this is the first time I have ever returned a car mid rental (it was 2 hour round trip to do so). First thing I noticed was totally numb controls. There is absolutely zero feedback from the pedals and the steering wheel. Trying to brake smoothly is almost impossible because the brakes go from not gripping to suddenly clamping down. Acceleration is non-existent. Handling, what handling? I would get body roll when changing roads on a freeway interchange. The ride is rough and loud. The seats hurt (I am in my 20s). The interior is cheaper than an 80s Escort. Last but not least, this car has a CVT, which just drones loudly and mocks you for pushing on the gas pedal.
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Two people and a Dog Love Prius c - 2015 Toyota Prius c
By Metalalic mario - October 15 - 1:34 pmThere are usually two of us and a dog in the car so it works out fine. I plan on keeping this car for a long time. It gets very good gas mileage. there is no reason to pay too much $ for a car of any type. I would rather be spending my money on a trip. Compared to other cars in the same price range this car is the best for the money. I wanted to buy the 1 only, but I wanted cruise control for longer drives so opted for the 2. I like simplicity so I didnt want all the extras that I can buy myself later. The mileage is phenomenal. Its a perfect car for the 3 of us.
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Two people and a Dog Love Prius c - 2015 Toyota Prius c
By Metalalic mario - October 15 - 1:34 pmThere are usually two of us and a dog in the car so it works out fine. I plan on keeping this car for a long time. It gets very good gas mileage. there is no reason to pay too much $ for a car of any type. I would rather be spending my money on a trip. Compared to other cars in the same price range this car is the best for the money. I wanted to buy the 1 only, but I wanted cruise control for longer drives so opted for the 2. I like simplicity so I didnt want all the extras that I can buy myself later. The mileage is phenomenal. Its a perfect car for the 3 of us.
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Excellent Commuter Vehicle - 2015 Toyota Prius c
By Brian Mescher - August 29 - 7:35 pmI drive 80 miles a day, including city streets, freeways, and mountain roads. The car has trouble going faster than 80 mph, but I dont really want to be driving any faster than that (I have a lead foot/self-control issue).
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Excellent Commuter Vehicle - 2015 Toyota Prius c
By Brian Mescher - August 29 - 7:35 pmI drive 80 miles a day, including city streets, freeways, and mountain roads. The car has trouble going faster than 80 mph, but I dont really want to be driving any faster than that (I have a lead foot/self-control issue).
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Fun to drive our Prius C - 2012 Toyota Prius c
By satx2 - June 20 - 7:55 amWe have about 4000 (most city) miles on our Prius C and really enjoy it so far. It has adequate power to get onto the expressway and behaves well at 75 mph. What we like most is that this car is fun to drive. I dont try to baby it to get maximum mileage, but it still gets 42-44 mpg overall. Were still getting used to all the electronics, but are enjoying the Bluetooth feature and satellite radio. If you can live with a little less power and comfort, the Prius C is a really good buy.
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I hate this car more than anything. - 2012 Toyota Prius c
By lspeed1983 - April 3 - 5:02 amMy fiance just bought this car a few months ago and claims to love it. Despite this she still always finds a reason to take my 2012 Golf TDI rather than her Pruis C. Way to often I get stuck with her loud, annoying, joyless, unrefined, hopelessly slow, dork box of a car. Im a car guy not a Prius guy, so I dont and never will understand.
