Toyota Prius c

The Toyota Prius c is a subcompact hybrid hatchback sold by Toyota as part of the Prius family.

The Toyota Prius c is a subcompact hybrid hatchback that was sold by Toyota as part of the Prius family. It was positioned as a lower-cost, city-focused alternative to the standard Prius, using a Yaris-sized platform. Production ended in North America after the 2019 model year, and it was later discontinued in other markets including Australia.

History

The Prius c was introduced as the third member of Toyota's Prius family and targeted buyers seeking a smaller, less expensive hybrid. It expanded the Prius lineup with a smaller and more affordable hatchback.

Design and powertrain

The model was based on a Yaris-sized platform and used a 1.5-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with Toyota's hybrid system. It was offered with e-CVT transmission and front-wheel drive. Toyota described it as offering three drive modes: Normal, Eco, and EV. Trim naming changed over time, including Prius c One through Four and later simplified L and LE in some markets.

Fuel economy and performance

Fuel economy was a major selling point. The U.S. EPA rated the Prius c among the most fuel-efficient compact cars in its class when plug-in vehicles are excluded. Later model-year ratings included 48 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 46 mpg combined.

Discontinuation

Toyota ended Prius c sales in North America after the 2019 model year. The model was also discontinued in Australia in early 2020.

Canada

The Prius c was sold in Canada, where it appealed to buyers looking for a small, efficient hybrid hatchback at a lower price point than the standard Prius.