Joining the Prius lineup for 2012 is the compact Prius c. C stands for “city”, and the car is a small and inexpensive hybrid that seats five and gets an EPA-estimated 53/46 mpg city/highway. The Prius c is a four-door hatchback that’s available in four trim levels — One through Four. Competitors include the Honda Insight hybrid and high-mileage subcompacts like the Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Sonic. Exterior Despite being 19 inches shorter than the regular Prius, the Prius c still inherits traditional Prius design themes. The front end has familiar Prius-like headlamps and a big trapezoidal grille. On the upper level Prius c Four there are heated power side mirrors and fog lights.
From the side, the Prius c maintains the traditional subcompact hatchback look. There are standard 15-inch steel wheels with covers while 15- and 16-inch alloy wheels are optional. Toward the back, tall LED taillights rise from the bumper up to the rear spoiler. A power tilt/sliding moonroof is available. Interior Inside the Prius c cabin, there’s a surprising amount of room. The regular Prius’ steering wheel makes its way into the compact c and is fitted with both audio and climate controls.
The digital dashboard features a standard 3.5-inch customizable display that shows fuel economy, hybrid system operation, and intuitive Eco Score/Eco Savings data.
Standard on the Prius c One is a four-speaker CD stereo with USB and auxiliary inputs as well as Bluetooth music streaming. Upper level trims get a six-speaker premium stereo with the Entune multimedia system. Cloth seats are standard and heated leather seats are available. Power windows, locks and a fold-down rear seat are standard while cruise control and a 60/40-split folding backseat are optional. With the rear seats up, cargo room measures 17.1 cubic feet. Under the Hood The Prius c features a 73-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine matched with a 60 hp electric motor. Safety Nine airbags are standard, as is an electronic stability system with traction control and antilock brakes.
