2012 Toyota Prius C Reviews
It's worth noting that this is little different from the regular Prius lift back’s 51/48/50 mpg rating. On the downside, the Prius C isn't quite as refined. If you're looking for a budget-friendly vehicle with superior fuel economy and a city-friendly size, the Toyota Prius C should work out well.
.The 2012 Toyota Prius C is powered by a similar hybrid powertrain as its bigger Prius siblings, albeit downsized a bit. Of course with any Prius, the most important numbers relate to fuel economy, and the Prius C does not disappoint. Standard safety features on all 2012 Toyota Prius C models include stability control, traction control, antilock brakes (front discs, rear drums), hill start assist, front-seat side seat cushion airbags, and a driver knee airbag and side curtain airbags.
In terms of comfort, the Prius C presents a mixed bag, particularly for taller passengers. Thanks to smaller dimensions, a lighter weight and optimized locations of its hybrid components, the 2012 Toyota Prius C delivers a livelier driving experience than its stalemates.
Known worldwide for its outstanding fuel economy ratings of 51/48 mpg city/highway, the Toyota Prius is one of the most successful cars on the market. One of the new additions to the Prius lineup is the Toyota Prius c. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (Prius PHV) should come out in early 2012 along with the Prius c. Combined, the Prius c low price, stellar fuel economy and small size should make it ideal for small families and singles who live in urban areas. How does the Prius c compare to these models? If Toyota’s fuel economy predictions are accurate, the Prius c will be the most fuel-efficient car in the class, besting the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid’s combined fuel economy rating of 45 mpg. Ratings above 51/48 mpg city/highway also place the c above the Insight’s 40/43 mpg city/highway and the CR-Z’s 35/39 mph city/highway.
As a Prius, the c gets outstanding numbers with a 50 mpg average rating. As a Prius, the c also delivers as promised. Of note, how the Prius c achieves that combined number is quite different than the regular car, with a higher city rating of 53 mpg and a lower highway rating or 46 mpg. Down-sized in all ways over the conventional Prius, including being 18 inches shorter in length and 2 inches less wide, the Prius c also makes use of a smaller engine. Shared in size with the second generation Prius, it’s a 1.5-liter unit, compared to a 1.8-liter in the current Prius, and makes use of smaller electrical components as well. Perhaps more important for the smart phone generation is in-car technology and the Toyota Prius C has gobs of it, with the usual items as well as some innovative added-value features that make the Prius as much of a green video game on wheels as it is a car
High grade trim levels get the optional Display Audio screen with a Toyota’s Entune telematics system. Currently an option on numerous other Toyota products, the Prius c gets some unique new toys as well, accessible on an additional 3.5-inch display screen. Along with the usual hybrid drive monitors, Toyota has added an Eco Score screen that will rank your current drive’s fuel efficiency compared to the past 100 trips. If there’s anywhere the Prius c doesn’t deliver its in driving enjoyment. Base Toyota Prius C One to Three trim levels come with tiny 175/65/15 steel wheels with hubcaps, with some grades available for a 15-inch aluminum wheel upgrade. Trim level Two ($19,900) adds an upgraded audio system with Bluetooth streaming audio, two-tone seats and cruise control. Prius c three models ($21,635) then toss on the 6.1-inch display audio system with Entune, Touch Tracer controls on the steering wheel and keyless access with a push button ignition. Compared against a Prius lift back, you’ll save roughly $4,000 to $5,000 depending on the trim level.
