New for 2014
The 2014 Toyota Prius c remains the same nimble and fuel-efficient car as last year, with no major changes to the current model.
Baby Boomer
As the smallest and least expensive model in Toyota’s hybrid family, the 2014 Prius c proves that miserly fuel economy can be had at an incredibly attractive price.
Not only is the baby of the Prius bunch affordable, with a starting MSRP of $19,080,* its unique styling, seating for five passengers, and nimble handling make it an incredibly attractive proposition for nearly any budget.
Powertrains and Performance
Underneath the Prius c’s pinched hood lives a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and electric motor that is fed by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Total combined output for the Prius c is 99 horsepower, which is channeled to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
As with any hybrid model, the most important figures are that of its fuel economy. And when it comes to the Prius c, few are able to match it. That’s because the Prius c earns an EPA-estimated (and astronomical) 50 mpg combined.** Plan on driving in the city? The Prius c gets 53 mpg.** Feel like venturing out onto the highway? Well then satisfy your need for adventure and enjoy 46 mpg.**
While the bulk of your driving joy will derive from its miserly fuel economy, the Prius c acquits itself well out on the road. It’s small footprint means maneuvering in and out of tight corners and parking spaces is a breeze. It’s also quite sprightly, with driving manners that make for one fun city runabout.
Don’t mistake the c for some sort of pipsqueak Prius, though. It handles longer stretches of pavement with aplomb and passing power is more than adequate. Drivers keen to put their foot down with authority will be surprised by the vehicle’s impressive acceleration.
Features and Trims
With its versatile hatchback body style and four-door configuration, the 2014 Prius c is as practical as it is fuel efficient. It comes in four different trim levels named One through Four, and is roomy enough to seat 5 passengers
Standard highlights for One models include 15-inch steel wheels, a 3.5-inch multifunctional display, and Bluetooth® audio and phone connectivity. One models also come with full power accessories and a handy USB/iPod® port.
The Prius c Two adds to the base model’s impressive list with a height-adjustable driver seat, center console storage bin, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and six-speaker sound system.
Next up, the Prius c Three nets drivers keyless ignition/entry, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, and a navigation system. Of course, an advance car such as the Prius c deserves some advance features, and c Three models come with Toyota’s cutting-edge Entune® app suite, which includes access to Bing™, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable® and Pandora®, as well as real-time info including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks.
Finally, the Prius c Four gets a number of exterior enhancements, such as alloy wheels, heated mirrors, and foglights. Four models also come equipped with Toyota’s SofTex® simulated leather trim and heated front seats.
Exterior/Interior
Traditionally, fuel-efficient cars aren’t known for their standout styling, but the Prius c happily adds to its fuel-sipping frugality with genuine good looks. Despite being based on the Yaris platform, the Prius c has an identity of its own. Strong visual cues include sweeping headlights and long, vertical taillights that help the Prius c “pop” in a crowed parking lot.
With space for five passengers, you may have already surmised the amount of cabin space on offer in the Prius c—a lot . The interior is also rather stylish, too, with a uniquely sculpted dash that cradles the center console and available LCD touchscreen.
There is even a multifunctional steering wheel, complete with steering wheel-mounted controls for added convenience. Meanwhile, like its larger siblings, the Prius c does away with the traditional analogue gauge cluster/instrumentation in favor of an all-digital make up.
Finally, we’ve touted the Prius c’s versatility already and we weren’t just blowing smoke up your tailpipe. The base Prius c One's rear seat folds down as one piece, but Two and above models feature a 60/40 split seat for greater versatility.
Safety
As with every new Toyota model, the Prius c comes with Toyota’s Star Safety System™, an advanced suite of six standard safety features. These consist of enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and Smart Stop Technology®.
The Prius c also comes with nine airbags as standard, including a driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System. Additionally, the c is equipped with energy-absorbing crumple zones that help disperse energy away from the passenger compartment.
Bottom Line
Fun, frugal, and feisty in a curve, the Prius c proves that value and excitement can co-exist in sweet automotive harmony—and from such a wonderfully small package, to boot!
But don’t let its size fool you. With enough room for five passengers, the Prius c remains every bit as capable as its larger hybrid siblings.
It may be the baby of the Prius brood, but out on the road, the 2014 Prius c proves capable beyond its years.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, be sure to stop by or contact us at 3 Birds Marketing.
* Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee of $825 for Cars, $885 for Small/Light Trucks (Sienna, RAV4, RAV4 EV, Highlander Gas, Highlander HV, FJ Cruiser, 4Runner, Tacoma and Venza), $1100 for Large Trucks (Tundra), and $925 for Large SUVs (Sequoia and Land Cruiser). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota's charge for these services is called the "Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee" and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota's overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX will be higher. Actual dealer price will vary.
** 2014 EPA-estimated mileage. Actual mileage will vary.
Image: Toyota
