Toyota Prius C

Angular Front Exterior View - 2012 Toyota Prius C 5dr HB Three (Natl)

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Shopping for a 2012 Toyota Prius C? MSRP: $18,950 - $23,230

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The Toyota Prius C is a hatchback that brings the high fuel economy of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive—and some of the same high-mpg technology as other Prius models—together with a smaller body style that's easier to maneuver and park, as well as a simpler feature set and lower price. The $19,710 Prius C has the same best-in-class 50-mpg mileage as the Prius (and 53 mpg city) and competes with budget-conscious hybrid models like the Honda Insight, as well as mainstream-market small cars its size, like the Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Sonic, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai Accent.

Although the Prius C looks like a mass-market model, perhaps fitting right in between the Yaris and the Matrix, in keeping with the Prius family traits, it's a unique, hybrid-only body style. The rather ordinary five-door hatchback layout is exactly as you might think inside—offering just as much space inside in front as the standard Prius, and nearly as much in back, thanks to a somewhat more upright seating layout. Cargo space isn't plentiful with the rear seats up and in place, but it's enough for a small load of groceries, and the seatbacks fold forward to expand the cargo hold.

The instrument-panel layout borrows some minor controls from the Yaris but shares its central gauges and readouts with the rest of the Prius lineup. Trims and materials are clearly a step down in quality compared to the Prius, but that's to be expected given the bargain price.

Because the Prius C is smaller and lighter than the Prius Liftback (and Prius V), its powertrain has been downsized as well—although it fundamentally uses the same mechanical layout as the other Prius models. Its 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine makes 73 horsepower, while a smaller electric motor system and 0.9-kWh battery pack tuck under without getting in the way of seating or cargo. Altogether, the powertrain makes 99 hp, and in a first drive of the Prius C we found it to be responsive enough—and actually very nimble and maneuverability—although by no means sporty.

At a price this low, something has to give, and so it shouldn't come as a surprise that the Prius C has a simplified feature list. Four trims are offered (Prius C One, Prius C Two, Prius C Three, and Prius C Four), and even the most affordable Prius One models come with automatic climate control, keyless entry, power accessories, and USB/iPod connectivity. A navigation system and Toyota's Entune infotainment system come in the Prius C Three, while Prius C Four models get heated seats, alloy wheels, and fog lamps.