2019 Toyota Prius c

Released in 2012 as a cheaper version of the Prius, the c offers a simpler option in the subcompact hybrid segment, priced between $21,530 and $22,955. Only two trim levels are available, each powered by the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired to an electric motor that produces 99 hp and 83 lb-ft of torque. A full suite of safety features is available from the entry-level model, and although the top-end variant only upgrades the infotainment system, it is the better choice between the two. With excellent fuel efficiency and a surprisingly roomy cabin, the Prius c is a good option for those seeking a reliable small car as their urban daily driver. It doesn't fare quite so well in terms of acceleration and passing on the highway, due to the modest power output. Honda's Fit and Chevrolet's Bolt EV both give better performance overall. With talks of the Prius c being discontinued in 2020 in favor of the new Corolla Hybrid, we would wait for this much-anticipated release, or consider the standard Prius instead.

The base model Prius c is priced at only $21,530 excluding a destination charge of $930. The fully-loaded LE variant has an MSRP of $22,955 (also excluding destination). Price is one of the biggest factors keeping the Prius c relevant. The non-hybrid Honda Fit costs at least $5000 less. By contrast, the Chevrolet Bolt all-electric EV is priced at $37,496 - substantially more than the budget-friendly US price of the Prius c.

Smaller than the standard Prius, this hatchback offers agility and a nimble sense of handling around town. Light steering makes it perfect for navigating parking spaces or negotiating busy traffic conditions. With a short wheelbase, the Prius c picks up a lot of bounce and the suspension makes for a firm, possibly too rigid, ride. The low-rolling-resistance tires don't provide good grip, but despite this, it still feels composed. The Prius c features regenerative braking that seeks to convert energy from deceleration into battery power. Here the Prius c excels: the brakes are well-modulated and reassuring. Overall the Prius c is adequate for grocery runs, school trips and going to work and back, as not much is required in terms of performance or exertion for exceptional or sporty handling.

The Prius c has been around since 2012 and upon release featured prominently as a good hybrid option. However, by 2019 it almost seems out of place amongst competition such as the all-electric Chevrolet Bolt and the forthcoming Corolla Hybrid. Even the standard Prius has more to offer in terms of a more comfortable cabin, better performance and more interior space. So, despite the excellent reliability ratings, a high number of safety features and rather good fuel economy statistics, if budget is not your biggest motivating factor, you'd fare better to look at other options. If you are searching for a cheap, low-cost vehicle to do basic school runs or grocery shopping, then yes, the Prius c might be worth it, and at the end of its lifespan, you're bound to pick up a great deal.

If you are convinced that the Prius c is the right hybrid hatchback for you, then go for the top-of-the-range LE trim, featuring the better infotainment system with a high-resolution touchscreen, navigation, traffic and weather overlay by means of the Entune Premium App. Whilst there are no other powertrain options available, it makes no sense to stick to the base model, for only $1,425 less. Overall the Prius c offers value-for-money to the city-dwelling driver whose fuel consumption is their main concern.

This comparison is significant as the Honda Fit is a non-hybrid hatchback competing in this segment, offering a much cheaper base price. The Honda offers four trim levels, each available as either a manual or CVT and provides better outputs from its 1.5-liter engine: 130 hp as opposed to the Prius's 99 hp. The Prius is only available in two trim options, with main differences being its infotainment system. The Honda offers a much more dynamic and engaging drive, with a more powerful engine, offer stronger acceleration and higher speeds, which the Prius c simply can't match. The Prius c is a valid option if the buyer's focus is on fuel economy and city driving, where a strong engine is not required. Otherwise, the Honda is a superior option, with gas mileage that is admirable for the segment.

Another important comparison in terms of superior fuel efficiency is to compare the Prius against its full-electric rival, Chevrolet's Bolt. At first glance, the Bolt EV presents an exorbitant price premium at more than $15,000 to the Prius c. However, the Bolt is fully electric and uses no gasoline. Therefore it can achieve an equivalent 119 mpg on the combined cycle. It also offers a powerful 200 hp engine, larger infotainment screen, and standard navigation, satellite radio and keyless entry on even the most basic model. To its credit, Prius c offers better interior space, with a little more room and much more comfort. Buyers would have to choose whether they want the convenience of a hybrid, or live within range of quality recharging, which can serve an electric vehicle, but as far as we're concerned the quality and drivability of the Bolt make it the superior choice.

A comparison to the standard Prius is important since the Prius c has lost some of the benefits it brought the market in 2012. For a little more than $2,000 more than the c, the regular Prius offers a base model with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 121 hp. Despite being a more powerful vehicle, it returns better fuel economy than the Prius c, at 58/53/56 mpg. It's larger too, with better road manners and around ten cubic feet of cargo volume more than its smaller counterpart. Although head- and legroom is much of the same in both vehicles for the front and rear, the standard Prius also has a nicer overall cabin ambiance. Available in all-wheel-drive on two of its trim levels, it makes no sense to downscale to the Prius c when the Prius costs only a little more.