2012 Toyota Prius C Review

Courtesy of Time Warner Cable/ YNN
Aired: 5/31/2012

The 2012 Toyota Prius C is a new compact hybrid. Lauren Fix, the Car Coach, brings you a closer look.

Model – 2012 Toyota Prius C
MPG – 53 city/ 46 hwy mpg.
Engine – 1.5L, Hybrid Synergy Drive
Transmissions: 8-speed automatic with E-Shifter.
Price – $18,950 – $23,230
Test vehicle: $22,669
Warranty: 3 year / 36,000 miles
Free Maintenance: 2 year / 25000 mi.

The 2012 Toyota Prius C offers a smaller footprint and price to match. This car should appeal to drivers looking for a subcompact hatchback that gets 50 mpg.

Standard features include:
•Navigation System
•Bluetooth
•iPod input
•Satellite radio
•Side/Curtain Airbags
•Stability and Traction Control
•AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo

Toyota includes both Eco and EV mode buttons. The EV mode tries to maintain electric propulsion but, during my test drive, kicked in the gas engine as soon as put slight pressure on the accelerator. Eco mode detunes acceleration to achieve better fuel economy. I found that I could use the accelerator lightly enough on my own to achieve great fuel economy.

The Eco Score display contributes to efficient driving by allowing you to gauge your driving style and improve the mpg results. I became obsessed with trying to test my driving style by watching this little display sitting to the right of the digital speedometer. The information panel displayed current battery level, average fuel economy and trip miles, as well as the time.

Competes with:
•Honda CR-Z
•Honda Insight
•Ford Fiesta SFE
•Hyundai Accent

Likes:
•Outstanding fuel economy
•Inexpensive for a hybrid
•Standard Bluetooth and USB port
•Tons of storage everywhere

Dislikes:
•Underpowered engine
•Hard plastic interior pieces
•Tight second row seating

The 2012 Toyota Prius C is inexpensive for a hybrid. This impressive ride comes with a very modern, high-tech cabin and excellent fuel economy, all in a size that’s easy to park anywhere.