Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Consumer Reviews
Used Prius c for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2016 Prius c, so we've included reviews for other years of the Prius c since its last redesign.
An Unexpected Surprise!
KW, 05/13/2016
2016 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
49 of 50 people found this review helpful
I bought this car as a secondary commuting car to save massive amounts of gas money, as I drive probably 70-80 miles a day during the week. I figured it would just be a means to get me from point A to B, with four wheels, a steering wheel, and great gas mileage. I was pleasantly surprised, even on the test drive, but even more so after driving it daily for the past 5,000 miles. Let me start off with my complaints, although they are somewhat trivial: - The driver seat needs some lower lumbar support, at least for my back. My Jeep has an adjustment on the seat that does that; this car does not. - The forward view from the driver seat is great; however there are enormous blind spots on the side and the rear windshield is tiny. Makes changing lanes in Chicago traffic interesting to say the least. - The front collision "sensor" on the windshield gets "blocked" by the slightest rain/condensation/dirt on the windshield, and flashes an irritating warning on your dashboard until it is corrected. That's really it. Everything else about the car I really enjoy. The sound system is surprisingly decent, I love the Audio controls of AM/FM/CD/XM/Pandora/Spotify, it's so easy to switch between them and the information provided is great. The Nav works well, although I still prefer to use Google Maps on my phone when that is available. Acceleration you could say is an issue, but this is a 99hp *hybrid*. If you take that into consideration, it's more than fine. I have no trouble merging into horrific Chicago traffic every morning (Advice: Turn off "Eco" mode when you do, however). Gas mileage has been way more than stated so far, I have been getting usually 55-60mpg, and that's with absolutely no consideration on how I'm driving the car. I've gotten a few 66mpg driving days as well! Handling on both curving roads and straightaway highway has been fine. When you have a crosswind on the highway though, use two hands on the wheel, this car is pretty light and can veer in heavy wind. Driving it at night is a joy, the dashboard lighting and the LED highlights are fantastic. Also, driving the kids to a friends house on a rainy day just a few blocks away in EV mode (all electric) is amusing, also be careful in parking lots as the gas engine doesn't usually turn on and you can sneak up on people! Anyways, I could go on. The point is this car is much more than just four wheels to get you to your destination. At this price, for the gas mileage and Toyota quality you get, after a thorough test drive it really was a no-brainer for me.
- Performance
- Value
Respect the Prius c !
Rob, 10/26/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
I have previously driven Honda Fits (07 and 2012) but I didn't care for the new redesign. I never really considered the Prius (was leaning more towards a Crz or Golf) but that was before I saw the c at a dealership one night. It was shining in the moonlight and looked so edgy- futuristic. I test drove it the next day and it was mine within the week! I REALLY ENJOY my c. It hugs the road through messy weather and brakes nicely. The interior is very stylish-blue instrumentation and a touchscreen light the front. The c is so quiet. One foggy night we left the movies and before we hit highway speeds it felt surreal - silently cutting through the fog, the futuristic interior/blue glow, and high powered LED lights- so memorable. The fuel economy is excellent! The acceleration takes some time getting used to but now I know how it handles- its not peppy like a Fit but it isn't a sluggard either. Because it is a Hybrid it is not a powerhouse but I never feel intimidated merging or traveling on the interstate as the engine does have a little kick when needed! The c holds quite a bit too-flatten the rear seats in any combo and it almost gives the Fit a run for its money in storage space. I do wish it had more hidey-holes and cup holders like the Fit though. I truly feel blessed to have and drive such an amazing little car. Respect the Prius!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Safety
Lona, 11/01/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
27 of 28 people found this review helpful
The best words I can say about this car is AMAZING SAFTY!!! If for no other reason you could find, the safety of thus car should be the #1 reason to buy it. Not only is it beautiful, gas savings, roomy (for a small car) it also has great safety). My son got a 2012 modle. The other day him, and 3 passengers were in a wreak. The air bags came out from the front, at all doors, the back seats and the trunk. Thank God, because all though the engine was all over the road from where it drops down for safety, NO ONE was badly hurt. All the pain was coming from the seat belts that kept them from bouncing around. I am so greatful that my son got this car and we will be getting another one. I wish there was a bigger way to express my graditude for the people who have worked hard for making this car safe. It's worth the price to buy this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Ignore the snobby critics
Justin M. Chase, 11/10/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
16 of 16 people found this review helpful
To be honest, since this is a hybrid car and its main purpose is to get you from point A to Point B while cheap on gas, I am totally pleased with this car. I got even better mpg than the claims. Acceleration is not neck breaking however it isn't slow like critics claim. If you mash the gas it will scoot so I'm not sure why anyone would buy a Prius to race it. This car is very nice and I know that whoever chooses this car will love it like I do. I am convinced that the magazine and internet critics that rag on this car probably drive Mercedes to work and I can't help but feel as if they are biased in their opinions toward this car. They gave a good review of the Ford Focus and when I drove the Focus SE, the transmission kept slipping from 1st to 2nd during the test drive (it was a new car). Anyways, if you like the idea of a hybrid and want to save money on your gasoline, this car is the smart choice. Like I already mentioned, I love this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
If you think Prius c is too small, think again!
C. Kellaway, 12/05/2015
updated 12/07/2017
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
30 of 32 people found this review helpful
For some folks, the Prius v, with reclining rear seats is a must and while most are drawn to the Prius liftback, (the Prius that started it all) I have to emphasize the amazing parkability of the Prius c! I was given a Prius c for a day by the dealership and at the time, decided the car was too small for the long term. A month later my roomate got the Prius c and for the last two years, I've had the pleasure of test driving it on weekends. Living in Los Angeles, it is extremely satisfying to be able to fit into parking spaces that you wouldn't even attempt with the worlds best selling car, also built by Toyota. That one parking space that is truly just big enough for a compact car, squeezed-in between a cement pillar on one side, and a large truck parked at an angle over the dividing line on the other,..The only space available in the lot because nobody else could fit in one so small and compromised,.. Pull in with pride in your Prius c! Sometimes, this is the difference between making your appointment on time and circling up or down level after level in a parking structure. The interior is spacious and comfortable and it drives with a wonderful center of gravity giving it the feel of a much heavier car. There's also the fact that the Prius c is the highest mileage non plug-in hybrid car available. I've averaged as high as 92.4 miles per gallon going from point A to point B 'from trip start.' Otherwise nothing short of 50 MPG under normal driving conditions. It has a surprising amount of pep for it's size an if you step down hard on the pedal, the car definitely holds its own. I've wanted a Prius for a long time, am the last one in my circle of friends and family to get one and am happier with the car than I’d anticipated. Passing fuel stations for weeks at a time and filling a nine gallon tank when I visit one is more exciting to me now than hearing the roar of a racing car engine used to be. If you don't know the awesome definition of SULEV, may I suggest you look it up, or better yet, call a Toyota store and ask. It is the best reason to get this car! Id like to see the Prius assembled in America like many other Toyota vehicles. A nice update would be replacing Entune with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is my personal opinion that fog lights are a safety feature and therefor should be an available option on all trim levels.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Excellent Commuter Vehicle
Brian Mescher, 01/21/2016
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I drive 80 miles a day, including city streets, freeways, and mountain roads. The car has trouble going faster than 80 mph, but I don't really want to be driving any faster than that (I have a lead foot/self-control issue).
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Reliability
- Value
Awesome Prius c :)
vvj, 10/08/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I got my silver Prius c One about 3 months ago, and I am absolutely loving this car!!! Since most of my driving is in the city, I'm averaging a ridiculous 57 MPG without doing anything special. I also love the look and feel of the interior - feels very premium for an entry-level car. The light gray seats (only available on the One) are super soft and comfortable (so much better than all non-leather seats on other cars). The color combination of the seats and dashboard/head unit looks amazing with the silver exterior color. There is also a surprising amount of space inside - way more than you would think looking at the car's exterior. I'm also very pleased that Toyota added a touch screen, softer interior materials, and LED headlights & taillights all standard for the 2015 model - they really give the car a premium feel. Combine this with an incredible price of $18,500 ON THE ROAD, free 2 year maintenance, rock-solid Prius reliability with a tried-and-true hybrid system - and you have a car that's very hard to beat. The only reason I wouldn't recommend this car is if you do ALL of your driving on the highway - you'd be better off with a Corolla or Mazda3 for the same price. But even if you do mixed city/highway, this car is still fine - I have no problem getting this car up to 80-85 MPH (slightly more road/wind noise than Corolla/Mazda3). And if you do mostly city like me, the Prius c is the halo car for congested, stop-and-go traffic areas like mine - not only for fuel efficiency, but more importantly for pollution (which can be 10 times less compared to other cars in these conditions). The bottom line: I could not have wanted a better car than my 2015 silver Prius c One :)
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Reliability
- Value
Most economical hybrid, just don't expect ZOOM
Danny L, 11/30/2015
updated 06/01/2016
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
Upgraded interior from the year before, definitely was a plus. Navigation and push start is standard at Three trim and above. LED headlights and tail lights are standard on all Prius C's. The car has a smaller engine than the regular liftback, but at the same time more efficient on gas. Easy to park, being about 155" long. We did a lot of research on compact cars before settling on this one, a close second was the Versa Note and the third car, the Honda Fit. Don't expect to take road trips without letting others behind you pass because you can't make it up the hill at the same speed as they are keeping. 10% inclines had us pushing the engine. The range that this car was most comfortable in is: 5 mph parking lot - 55 mph hwy. Overall, if I had to buy a car again, I would still go with this car because of the gas savings per month, I drive 2,800 mi per month, and I spend about $135 versus a gas-only car where I'd be spending $250.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great jalopy for people who drive a lot
John, 07/31/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I got one of these as a rental for about a week. The meage was outstanding. Averaged 58mpg over the entire time. Granted I was careful with the acceleration and had watched some tutorial videos in the past on the pulse and glide driving method. I would purchase this car if I had a long commute, especially if on hilly roads, around town or in the country. I don't think the car is all that great on the highway. It's adequate and keeps up with traffic but the mileage is not so high at 75mph. The engine is underpowered but coming from a 23 year old Subaru that's not a biggie. It requires you to think ahead in some situations. The interior is comfortable. The ac works well and there is surprising amounts of room for the four people inside. Overall this is a good car for a single person, a couple or maybe a family with one kid. Two kids would be pushing it because of all the junk kids have these days. If and when gas prices rise again, you can expect resale value on these appliances to be high. I popped the hood on this car and was surprised at the size of the tiny engine. But you know what? I don't need no 5.3L hem I to get me and my lunch pail to work. If Toyota ever figured out to put a turbo on this small engine it would be even better! It would be cool if they sold a bare bones "level 0" model with roll up windows and no rear wiper, steelies with no covers and a fm/aux input radio only - but still with AC! I'd buy that.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
On my second one
Robert, 11/18/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I leased a 2012 Prius C Two, and when the lease was up debated buying it, but given it was November, I negotiated a deal on a 2015. The three years with the 2012 were trouble free, but the 2015 upgrades are noticeable. The most practical improvement is the headlights, which now project a good distance ahead. Aesthetic improvements include new vents, a vastly improved climate control interface, and updated taillights. The Three includes Toyota's E-tune system, which is a mixed bag. The voice recognition can be quite frustrating, and the navigation has little going for it verses Google maps on my phone. The Bluetooth interface however is seamless, and using apps like Pandora is great on long trips. Consistent across the years is the excellent fuel economy, and trouble free motoring.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Bargain $$$
Frankie Arambula, 09/13/2016
2016 Toyota Prius c Persona Series Special Edition 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I had a standard size Prius. I loved it for 5 years. I wanted something smaller. The price of my 2016 Prius c (compact) was good and I got a great trade in price for my 2011 Prius. I had very little left to pay. They let me put it on a credit card. It gave me a cash rebate. My insurance is less. With the free road service for two years, I cancelled my AAA. Toyota gives free maintenance for two years. I get better mileage, over 50 mpg in town. Even the cost to ride the ferry is less, because it is shorter. Edmunds gave me a $100 gift card. The savings just keep on coming. Check out photos 27, 28, 29, 35, 36, 37, 43 and 49. That is my Prius c Persona Special Edition, Black Sand Pearl with Electric Lime Metallic accents and 8 spokes black alloy wheels.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Moved UP to the FOUR - Great choice
Marian Chiara, 03/04/2016
updated 09/13/2018
2016 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for a strong engine, this is not the car for you, but if you want improved style, easy on the wallet, great gas mileage, and excellent technology - go with the Prius c 4. So happy with the daily drive now. The view of the electronics is perfectly placed, no more peeking around the steering wheel to see what's up. I would prefer a leather seat, but the current interior is easy to maintain and the seat warmers are lovely on a cold morning.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
So far, mostly great
TFarnon, 08/10/2016
2016 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
Why I bought this car: I wanted a Toyota. I wanted a hybrid. I wanted heated seats. I needed an automatic transmission due to a shoulder injury. I wanted a compact or subcompact car. I didn't want an SUV. Things I knew going in: The acceleration would be pathetic, not at all zippy like the manual transmissions I have driven for decades. I knew this would be a very tech-y car. I'm a scientist. Of course I'd like that. Things I have found to be pleasant surprises: The car is quiet. It has a smooth ride even on a street that is notorious for its potholes, rough patches and "tank traps". It's quiet compared to the manual Toyota I drove on that same noisy street for years. The climate control is great. I set it and I don't have to mess with it. The backup camera is cool. I like the eco savings display. It's fun to monitor. The things I don't like that sort of surprise me: The rear window is really small. It doesn't matter much because between the backup camera, the mirrors and my own cautious habits I don't think it's a problem. The cornering is a lot less stable than I am used to. I'll adjust. I'm used to tighter handling. The cargo space is tiny. On the other hand, that means I won't load the car up with junk I don't need.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Judge Me By My Size, Do You?
Joshua, 02/19/2016
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
15 of 17 people found this review helpful
I'm a 20-something college graduate who works in the film industry and drives across the country regularly. My priorities are functionality and pragmatism. My 2014 Prius C (lovingly appended "-3P0") was the first *new* car I ever bought, and in the 12 months I owned it I had put 45,000 miles on it driving from Albuquerque to Los Angeles, Seattle to Oklahoma City, and more. It's not a luxurious cruise, but I always felt safe, and the vehicle consistently performed as expected (a massive boon to the long drives is the flawlessly integrated bluetooth system). If you take care of this car as instructed, and I don't mean hand-polishing your paint job once a week, but simply driving smart and providing regular maintenance, it'll work very hard for you. Let's talk about size for a moment. Inside, the fold-down seats provide you with substantial storage space for a vehicle in the class. Transporting grip equipment like tripods and steadicams, is generally no problem as long as you organize your cases appropriately. And as for my *favorite* aspect of this car, PARKING, I am simply smitten with the profile of this vehicle. Maybe its because I'm a European living in the states, but I can't imagine driving a car larger than this and still being able to find parking in downtown LA--or almost anywhere in LA--on short notice during any given day. Now for some exaggerated criticism. I've had friends tell me that driving this car is not unlike riding a large turtle (I for one happen to respect the longest-living mammal on this planet). Merging onto the highway? Either slam on that gas pedal and listen to your engine scream as the acceleration meter runs red, or stay in the green and ignore the scowls of zooming passerby's blaring their horns. This isn't a threat. More of a warning. At the end of the day, I loved my little C-3P0 and don't for one second regret choosing him over the Yaris, Fiesta, Sonic, or Dart. But as it looks like I'll be driving a lot less in the days to come, I decided to trade him in for a fresh start, and after perusing all the new 2016 models of the aforementioned selections for which I am obviously a target consumer (including a very frisky crimson Scion iA whispering my name) I drove off the dealership with another Prius C. I have no regrets (I mean, just look at that gorgeous front bumper). Now I just have to find a good name...
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Join the Hybrid Team :) I love my little prius
venezuelan86@hotmail.com, 09/01/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I originally wanted a Scion Tc but since I care A LOT about the environment and I really don't need a sports car, I figured why not? I LOOOOVE how the car drives. OBVIOUSLY you wont hit 65MPH in 3 seconds because it's a small engine, but it drives SUPER SMOOTH/ SUPER QUIET, the seats are comfortable, the radio is awesome I LOVE XM RADIO BPM/AREA, it also comes with USB/AUX and the NAVIGATION comes in handy if you loose reception on your phone or your phone dies. The color I got was metallic grey and I LOVE IT! The car looks small from outside but yet IT HAS SO MUCH SPACE INSIDE. Great job whoever designed that car!!!! Also I like how its a hatchback because since I got the Hybrid C option 3 the backseats can fold and I can go to IKEA and buy a lot of stuff comfortably lol. You can comfortably have 4 people and 1 dog but 5 people is a tight squeeze. The car looks amazing inside, almost like you are driving a super futuristic car!!! I honestly have no complaints on my car. I LOVE IT!!! I STRONGLY RECOMMENDED you won't regret it :)
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Never saw the gas mileage advertised
Edward Carl, 07/25/2017
updated 02/04/2019
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I was sold on this car because a salesman did a demo he probably wasn't allowed to do. Had me take my hands off of the steering wheel and slam on the brakes in the middle of the (unoccupied) street. The car stopped perfectly without swerving in any way. The safety of this car is fabulous. The interior is clean and neat and after two years is holding up well. I have two complaints. Primarily, the combined mileage of this car is 45 mpg. Lately it's been around 43. Maybe because it's summer and I'm using the air more. However, it gets better mileage in warm than cold. I don't think the battery likes cold as well. If I can manage to coast a lot and never have to accelerate quickly, I have hit 50, but it's only been a couple of times over two years. The other complaint is the cargo room. I had a 95 Honda Civic that I gave up for this. (I loved that car and the resale was incredible!) However, I lost 6 cubic feet of cargo room when I bought this 2015 Prius C. That makes quite a difference if you go camping or ever carry lots of cargo. People's legs are squished in the minimal amount of leg room in the back seat. Otherwise, this car has grown on me. It's smooth and quiet and gets better mileage than non-hybrid cars, but just barely. Update 2/2/2019: I like this car, and it's holding up well. My average mpg is still 43-45, and the mpg depicted on the dashboard, estimated by the car's calculations, is always higher than the actual mpg when I calculate it myself, and I calculate it myself every time I fill the tank. The actual mileage is always lower than the car says. Still, I would recommend it until hybrids get the 60 plus mpgs they should be getting by now.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Small car saves big
JBMoorpark, 01/06/2017
2016 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I got this to be a commuter car. It's perfect for that, in my opinion. The gas mileage is through the roof. After 25,000 miles I average 52 mpg overall and higher under certain circumstances. It's not the quietest car but it's a lot quieter than my minivan. It's comfortable. The controls are easy and logical. The built-in USB support is really nice. Cargo space is tight if you have the back seats up but great if you fold them down. I really, really enjoy just tooling along in this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Two people and a Dog Love Prius c
Metalalic mario, 10/15/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
There are usually two of us and a dog in the car so it works out fine. I plan on keeping this car for a long time. It gets very good gas mileage. there is no reason to pay too much $ for a car of any type. I would rather be spending my money on a trip. Compared to other cars in the same price range this car is the best for the money. I wanted to buy the 1 only, but I wanted cruise control for longer drives so opted for the 2. I like simplicity so I didn't want all the extras that I can buy myself later. The mileage is phenomenal. It's a perfect car for the 3 of us.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Quality better then professional reviewer
Alan, 11/15/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Did not find this car in the budget category, the over-all quality seems superior. The dashboard, seating , workmanship are great. The ride, handling is pretty much what I expected from a gas electric powered car. I would recommend this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Belts? What Belts?
Joe Bentley, 12/28/2015
updated 01/04/2018
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
Gettin older and I needed a car with value and the least maintenance short of an EV while maintaining my 2 teen's NON hybrid older vehicles. This is it. Bought it because of the best CVT in the business and the expected reliability. I've not been disappointed. After 3 years the only thing I have done is changed the oil at 10K intervals the cvt fluid and plugs at 100K. Shocks and struts are next. The plugs were still in good shape but recommend dealer because it is not easy for most people. I know we will get 300K and beyond out of this vehicle on the original batteries alone. Mileage has only slipped 1 mpg in 3 years which is normal for any vehicle with this mileage already. My new Altima has already had problems and been in the shop twice for premature rust. Yup new car. Will likely never buy another Nissan as their CVT still has issues. Can't wait to get the larger prius hatchback after the kids leave the nest. There is a reason these cars are preferred by Taxi companies. Less maintenance, best value currently. These cars are the best bridge until EV's can go 200+ miles per charge and are cost competitive. UPDATE 1-4-12. All going well except for check engine light during summer only. It is a coolant/air temp sensor discrepancy. We get our stickers in the summer as light goes out.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Tiny Car
Dimitrij Fedorov, 05/15/2016
updated 05/15/2019
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
I bought a Prius C because I needed a cheap, reliable hatchback to use for work. Since then, I have discovered a lot of additional benefits, such as better-than-advertised fuel economy, very competent traction/braking control, quiet and comfortable ride (for a tiny vehicle), and great - for 2015 - instrumentation. The amount of space in the rear seat area is almost obscene. Four trouble-free years and 109K miles later: This is the best TCO (total cost of ownership) and value for money car I have had in the past 20+ years.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Acceleration Issues
lolo1234567, 04/23/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
37 of 48 people found this review helpful
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this car. Although it does get great mileage it doesn't perform at the advertised MPG on the highways. I typically average between 38-42 MPG and drive no faster than 70 MPH. When in traffic or the city the car's MPG really shine. The car does not accelerate or have enough power to make the drive feel safe. Even when flooring the accelerator, frequently I enter the highway under the speed limit. The car also seems like it is struggling to maintain highway speed. On hills the car is terrifying, it loses all umph and rapidly decelerates. The car also rolls backwards similar to a manual when attempting to accelerate up hill from a stop.
Compare
Edith Burris, 01/31/2017
2016 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Do your homework and use all the internet assistance. I was all prepared when I arrived at the dealer and had a pleasant experience.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great car but not for shallow people.
Ron R, 01/12/2017
2016 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
9 of 13 people found this review helpful
The Prius C is built to save gas. Acceleration is slow even if you try and and gun it. It is adequate enough to speed up more than the average car in normal driving. In freeway entrance with two lanes, I'm more than 90% faster than other cars I assume driving normally and not racing me. The battery charging without the plug in, but by the combustion engine is adequate to lower MPG by assisting in acceleration and taking over the stop and go without turning the gas engine on. I've heard people complaining about the braking system. It doesn't take long to get used to it and enjoy the regenerative braking and see the animation of your batteries being charged. If you are childlike in terms of personality you'll probably hate and throw a tantrum, so don't buy it. For the thinking person, it's quite a joy to see how efficient the Prius C is. I see it more appealing to people who eat healthy and understand the importance of quality living and not the junk food crowd who are more into satisfying their hunger and feelings. The CVT continuous variable transmission is awesome. It's actually more efficient and quicker than the regular planetary automatic or manual transmission. The CVT does not have a pause power is constantly applied making it quicker. I heard that CVT was rejected by dumb consumers on regular cars because they wanted the feel of the inefficient of gear shifting. CVT was acutally conceptualized by Leonardo DaVinci in 1490 and was first patented in 1829 for a saw mill. First cat to patent is Daimler Benz in 1886. I got the Prius C one the most basic, for me the car is not for luxury or sport use, it's a way to save money. I got 2 Mercedes, a Ram Hemi, a BMW Z4 and Mini Cooper S for the fun, sport and luxury part of driving. For my cheap side, my family drives the technologically advance, and energy efficient Prius C. You can't help but love it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Prius C Three with Navigation
merlinl, 07/08/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We went to the dealer prepared to buy the Prius C One with no extra features. We also had a TrueCar certificate for the One. We test-drove the Three and then quickly realize the features that would be missing on the One. The price difference was about $2k and being the 4th of July weekend and all other incentives we went for it. We still bought it cheaper than buying just the One on a regular day. Thanks Toyota!
Steers like a boat & can't get comfortable!
glenn magnussen, 03/27/2016
updated 04/29/2024
2016 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
10 of 19 people found this review helpful
The slightest crosswind, or crown in the road sends the car left and right. It could be in part due to the heavy battery ballast under the seats. In addition, the electric assist steering is overdone/too much assist. I've verified the alignment twice, and even scheduled a test drive with the service manager. He told me he didn't think there was anything wrong. Serves me right for thinking I was accompanied by an "expert"! My 94 Corolla wagon with the bent tie-rod steers much better than this vehicle. I am 6 ft tall. The front seats make me feel like I'm sitting in a well/no headroom. You can never get a comfortable driving position. Update 3/31/18: Edmunds wants me to update this review.. The steering wheel has two large spokes (@ 7pm/5pm) on the bottom. There is nowhere to comfortably grip the wheel.These are such a nuisance to anyone without small hands. I have prev given away the 94 Corolla wagon. I now wish I had not. It was so much better than the Prius C. Update: 4/2/19 Status the same...Turns out that the tires that came on this Prius C contained at least one defect. This was apparent at the beginning, and was confirmed when they rotated at 30k. At the beginning I complained to the service manager. He wasn't able to notice the defect in steering, as stated above. Gale Toyota of Enfield CT sold the vehicle. I took the "hit" and bought new tires. The steering is noticeably better, but not befitting a car that cost 28k. Don't buy this car! 10/6/19 Update at Edmunds request...I have increased the rating of acceleration to "OK", and shifting, to "GREAT". The remaining features are unchanged. Update @ request of Edmunds...(4/7/20) Still steers like a boat, and can't get comfortable. While it gets great mileage, I would not buy this car again. Just a little levity for the audience...I visited the dealer for routine maintenance. Outside was the salesperson who sold me the car. He asked me how I was enjoying the Prius. When I began to let him know the issues with it, he promptly found a reason to disappear. There you have it. 10/8/20 Update per request of Edmunds..The uncomfortable seats have worn in, and while the seat (bottom) portion of it is not as stiff, it is just as hot as before, and does not breathe. The seat back shape doesn't have a contour that remotely resembles the shape of someone's spine, so it follows that there is no comfort, here. Update: 4/14/21 Status the same! I'm in the market for a new car, and the bad taste left by the dealership is making me shy away from the Toy Rav4, and looking toward the Subaru Outback. You made your bed, Gale Toyota, and I have moved on. Update at request of Edmunds...10/17-21 The Prius C now has 70k miles. Gas mileage hasn't changed/is 45 highway. Though the car had an extra, 5-year warranty, paid for by me, I am glad to say that (crosses fingers) that so far, other than routine maintenance, nothing has needed attention. (Update at request of Edmunds...10-24-23) At 78k, the Prius is on its' THIRD set of tires (as of 10-2022) The main issue(s), throughout, is a worn left-front tire(s). Afterward, the steering was the same, although the fine people at Town Fair Tire stayed with me, and experimented with adjustments in the steering gear/parts, based on their road tests, and my followup comments to them. The bottom line is, steering, still, isn't correct, but, after their (TFT) assistance, holds the car more stable than before. Though another family member assumed ownership of the Prius C, I can't wait for this car to be gone.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
In the end we bought something else
Mid-Mo Car Shopper, 03/07/2017
2016 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
My husband and I are both 70. We are conservative, very conservative, and the idea of buying a high-mpg car usually drives our car searching. We were pretty sure we were going to go with a Prius and we narrowed it down to a Prius C Four or a Prius Three Touring. We wanted the amenities of leather seats and a navigation system. We were tired of allowing time to get lost every time we were going to a new location. We drove a Prius C Four first - it was bright yellow, which was probably not age-appropriate, but we liked it, except for one thing . . . the way the engine groaned when you needed it to climb a hill. We loved the car more than we had expected. Then we drove the Prius Three Touring and there wasn't anything about it we didn't like. The price difference between the two cars was about $4000. We were trying to drag out the shopping timeframe to guard against an impulse buying. Our sales person told us about his Prius Four Touring that he had just traded in the day before. It wasn't ready to test drive, but we looked at it and noticed it had the blind spot detectors. It was 3 months old and had less than 4000 miles on it. So the idea of that car was just hanging out on the "back burner" for a week or so. Another dealer let us take either of the cars we were interested in over the weekend. So we took a Prius C Three (they didn't have a four at that dealership) for the weekend. So on Saturday, we took the borrowed Prius C on an outting that took us to the dealership with the Yellow C Four and the Used Prius Four Touring. We drove that yellow car again, and still liked it. Then asked to drive the used Prius Four Touring. Our original salesman was off that day, and they were busy, so they let us drive the Four Touring without a salesperson in the car. We hardly drove off the lot before we looked at each other with eyes of super approval. When we got back to the dealership, the substitute salesperson was nowhere to be found. We waited about 20 minutes and then just left and took the borrowed Prius C back to the other dealership. I emailed the original salesperson and told him we wanted his Four Touring. And two days later we took it home. It still growls a little going up hills from a cold start, but not as much as the C did. In the end, it was the extra safety features that sold us on the car, . . . afterall, we're not as mentally sharp as we once were. :-(
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
Persona Prius C
Ulyses Villasin, 02/22/2017
2016 Toyota Prius c Persona Series Special Edition 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great car and reliable for city driving!!!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Worst Car I Have Ever Driven
Marty, 11/20/2016
2016 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
8 of 32 people found this review helpful
Buy this car if you want to fulfill your eco penance. I rent a car 4 months of the year for work, and this is the first time I have ever returned a car mid rental (it was 2 hour round trip to do so). First thing I noticed was totally numb controls. There is absolutely zero feedback from the pedals and the steering wheel. Trying to brake smoothly is almost impossible because the brakes go from not gripping to suddenly clamping down. Acceleration is non-existent. Handling, what handling? I would get body roll when changing roads on a freeway interchange. The ride is rough and loud. The seats hurt (I am in my 20s). The interior is cheaper than an 80s Escort. Last but not least, this car has a CVT, which just drones loudly and mocks you for pushing on the gas pedal.
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
this is the one you have been waiting for
philip schwartz, 04/16/2016
2015 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
2 of 8 people found this review helpful
great deal now
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Silver Bullet
Happy Car Owner, 02/26/2023
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Prius…. Handles like a dream and with back seats that fold down - there is a surprisingly lot of room to move a lot of items should the need arise. And then there’s the amazing gas mileage!
THIS CAR SOLD ME ON A PRIUS!!
Kim, 04/02/2024
2015 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was almost killed in a major car collision and wanted to be sure whatever car I purchased was very safe. I did extensive research and the Prius caught my eye with its great safety review! I have absolutely LOVED it and will definitely purchase another one!
Quicker than i thought it would be !
Greg Raymond, 07/09/2020
2016 Toyota Prius c Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great gas mileage (avg. about 50mpg) yet still very peppy!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Incredible MPG
KurtyBB, 11/07/2022
2016 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle for mpg, safety, and reliability, which is checks all the boxes for. Yes, it can get noisy and acceleration is slower but this is a Prius, not a G-wagon. The main purpose is to barely use any fuel, which is does extremely well.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I love my hybrid!
D Payne, 01/11/2023
2016 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is an easy car to own which is why I still own it! 45-51 mpg; park it anywhere, eco monitor helps keep speed down and gas mileage up; great storage for shopping; very sweet style and color; and it is reliable in any weather! Only issue is that Toyota has never (in 17 years of driving Toyotas) made a good rear windshield wiper!) Thank goodness for great defrosters🤗
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Economically Unbeatable
Bailey, 07/25/2023
2016 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Keeping in mind this is not a luxury vehicle, it is an affordable ride that's easy to drive. Easy to park and excellent mileage (50+ in the city) it was easy on the wallet. We have loved this car with its low maintenance and spunky style. We are currently struggling with trading it up for a larger car with more trunk space. However, we keep coming back to how much we love our Prius C and hate to give it up.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value