2016 Toyota Prius c Review
2016 Toyota Prius c Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Stellar fuel efficiency
- more affordable than most other hybrids
- surprisingly roomy interior considering its small exterior dimensions
- nimble and easy to park in tight spaces.
Cons
- Rides stiffly and uncomfortably over rough roads
- interior materials look and feel a bit cheap
- noticeable wind and road noise at highway speeds
- slow acceleration.
What’s new
After a front and rear restyling in the previous model year, the 2016 Prius C is largely a carryover. It does get Toyota's Safety Sense (C) package of driver assistance technologies and a limited-edition Persona Series Special Edition that adds some contrasting color accents to the exterior paint.
Edmunds says
Are you interested in a small, fuel-efficient hybrid? In that case, you should definitely check out the 2016 Toyota Prius C. We think it's well suited as a city car, and you'll get about 50 mpg for a very reasonable price. Read on to learn more about the Toyota Prius C.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2016 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.23 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$81/mo
Prius c Two
vs
$170/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Comfort and performance take a backseat to affordability and high fuel economy in most entry-level small cars. But for many people who are shopping this segment, that's just fine. For those drivers, the 2016 Toyota Prius C is a fine choice. This is a car that embraces its station in life as a fuel-sipping, easy-to-park and practical little hatchback, a conclusion we reached after spending a year testing our long-term Prius C.

The 2016 Toyota Prius C looks rather sporty here, but in truth, it's all about efficiency.
The Prius C is the smallest (19 inches shorter than a standard Prius) and lowest-priced member of the Prius family. Indeed, it's one of the least expensive ways to get into a hybrid. And it's no watered-down hybrid either, at least when it comes to fuel economy. The EPA estimates that the Prius C delivers an excellent 50 miles per gallon in combined driving. In addition to great fuel efficiency, the C's diminutive size and lighter weight make it more agile and a snap to park. The downside, though, is that the C's entry-level status is pretty evident. The ride quality can be harsh at times, and the interior is full of uninviting hard plastics. Furthermore, the Prius C is loud and slow compared to its competition.
But given this car's chief mission, we don't consider those demerits to be deal breakers. With that 50 mpg rating and Toyota's rock-solid reputation for reliability and low running costs, there's really no other hybrid out there that compares. Honda discontinued its Insight hybrid and Civic Hybrid this year, and that leaves just the two-seat Honda CR-Z to consider. But it can't match the Prius C's fuel economy or practicality. To get the best fuel economy on a budget, the Prius C is your car.
Performance & mpg
The 2016 Toyota Prius C is powered by a hybrid powertrain that consists of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor that's fed by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Combined power output comes to 99 horsepower, and it is sent to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In Edmunds performance testing, a Prius C needed 11.3 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is slow for a hybrid or any vehicle for that matter.
As with any Prius, however, the most important numbers relate to fuel economy, and the Prius C does not disappoint. EPA-estimated mileage stands at 50 mpg combined (53 city/46 highway), making it one of the most economical non-plug-in hybrids on the market.
Safety
Standard safety features on all 2016 Toyota Prius C models include stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, hill start assist, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag and front-seat cushion airbags that help prevent occupants from sliding under the seatbelts in a collision.
The basic Toyota Safety Sense C package is available on the C Three and C Four trims and adds lane departure alert, automatic high beams and a frontal pre-collision system that provides audible and visual alerts if it senses the car is closing too fast on a vehicle or other object. The system also adds extra braking force to help a driver slow down or applies emergency braking to lessen the impact of a crash if the driver doesn't take action.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Prius C came to a stop from 60 mph in a better-than-average 118 feet.
In government crash testing, the 2015 Prius C received four stars out of five for overall crash protection, with four stars for total frontal-impact protection and four stars for side-impact protection. The government also posted a "safety concern" about rear passenger protection, although that concern is not reflected in the ratings.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded the 2016 Prius C its top rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. In the small-overlap frontal-offset test, the Prius C got the second-best score of "Acceptable." Its seat and head restraint design was rated "Good" for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Driving
The 2016 Toyota Prius C feels a bit sprightlier than other Prius models when driving city routes, thanks to its smaller footprint and lower overall weight. It's also quite easy to park in small spaces (although you may want to skip the optional 16-inch wheels, as they significantly increase the car's turning circle). However, agility and road feel through the steering wheel are notably missing when the Prius C is compared with some conventional small hatchbacks.

You'll save plenty of gas driving a 2016 Prius C.
Severe road imperfections cause uncharacteristic harshness and, combined with noticeable wind noise at higher freeway speeds, give the Prius C a budget-car feel. Acceleration is comparatively underwhelming as well, but as long as you keep your expectations in check, the C's power will likely seem adequate for around-town driving and getting up to highway speeds.
Interior
Inside, the Prius C features a mix of the familiar with the unconventional. Gauges are mounted up high and in the center of the dash, which can be a bit odd at first, but actually makes for easier reading. Sadly, the cabin's plastics are rather mediocre in quality, especially compared with those in other subcompacts like the Ford Fiesta and Hyundai Accent. The addition of piano black and chrome accents on upper trims does lessen the effect somewhat. The cloth seat upholstery is nothing special either, but we actually prefer it over the SofTex vinyl that is used in the top trim level, the C Four.

The Prius C dashboard has an unconventional layout, but it's functional.
The C's top-of-the-line audio system features a suite of smartphone-connected services that include the Bing search engine, Pandora streaming radio and real-time sports and stock information. Getting started with the smartphone integration system can be a hassle, though, since you have to install an app on your phone and register for an account, plus you always need an active data connection to use it.
In terms of comfort, the Prius C presents a mixed bag, particularly for taller passengers. The driving position is slightly compromised by the lack of enough extension for the steering wheel's telescoping function, and the tall, upright dash can be hard for shorter folks to peer over. The front passenger may also take issue with the glovebox, which intrudes into the footwell. Backseat occupants will likely fare better, as there's ample head- and legroom for adults, and the completely flat floor allows for even more flexibility.
The base Prius C One's rear seat folds down as one piece, but C Two and above trims feature a 60/40-split seat for greater passenger/cargo versatility. With all the seats in use, cargo capacity stands at 17.1 cubic feet, about what you'd expect from a hatchback in this class.
2016 Toyota Prius c models
The 2016 Toyota Prius C is a four-door, subcompact hatchback offered in four trim levels named One through Four, plus the limited-production (1,500 vehicles) Persona Series, which builds off the C Two.
The Prius C One comes with 15-inch steel wheels, LED headlights, taillights and brake lights, automatic climate control, full power accessories, a folding rear seat, a multifunction display, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, voice commands and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and a USB/iPod interface.

Every 2016 Prius C comes standard with a touchscreen interface.
The Prius C Two adds cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, a center console storage bin and armrest, 60/40-split folding rear seats, a cargo cover and a six-speaker sound system.
Upgrading to the Prius C Three gets you keyless ignition and entry, a navigation system, smartphone app integration, satellite radio and voice controls.
The range-topping Four adds alloy wheels, heated mirrors, foglights, a sunroof, simulated leather upholstery, a rearview camera and heated front seats.
Options are few. On the Three you can get 15-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof and the Toyota Safety Sense (C) package (see Safety section below). The Safety Sense (C) package and 16-inch alloy wheels are optional on the Four.
The Persona Series adds to the C Two trim with model-specific 15-inch black alloy wheels, special badging and a black exterior (the only choice) with either Electric Lime or Cherry Pearl accents on the side mirrors, lower grille and beneath the headlights and side windows.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2016 Toyota Prius c.
5 star(62%)
4 star(32%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(4%)
34 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
An Unexpected Surprise!
KW, 05/13/2016
2016 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
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.
5 out of 5 stars
Safety
Lona, 11/01/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
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.
5 out of 5 stars
Respect the Prius c !
Rob, 10/26/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
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!
5 out of 5 stars
Ignore the snobby critics
Justin M. Chase, 11/10/2015
2015 Toyota Prius c Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2016 Toyota Prius c, so we've included reviews for other years of the Prius c since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $19,560
- MPG & Fuel
- 53 City / 46 Hwy / 50 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 9.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 99 hp @ 4,800 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 157.3 in. / Height: 57.3 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 66.7 in.
- Curb Weight: 2,496 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 17.1 cu.ft.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall4 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat4 / 5Back Seat4 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.8%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
More about the 2016 Toyota Prius c
Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Overview
The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c is offered in the following submodels: Prius c Hatchback. Available styles include Two 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), One 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), Three 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), Persona Series Special Edition 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), and Four 4dr Hatchback (1.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). Pre-owned Toyota Prius c models are available with a 1.5 L-liter hybrid engine, with output up to 99 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2016 Toyota Prius c?
Price comparisons for Used 2016 Toyota Prius c trim styles:
- The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Two is priced between $17,590 and$24,590 with odometer readings between 17593 and94247 miles.
- The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Three is priced between $17,371 and$21,990 with odometer readings between 25208 and72056 miles.
- The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Four is priced between $18,000 and$21,990 with odometer readings between 30398 and80232 miles.
- The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c One is priced between $14,998 and$22,590 with odometer readings between 34536 and107569 miles.
- The Used 2016 Toyota Prius c Persona Series Special Edition is priced between $21,250 and$22,990 with odometer readings between 41882 and52754 miles.
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Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2016 Toyota Prius c for sale near. There are currently 24 used and CPO 2016 Prius cs listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $14,998 and mileage as low as 17593 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2016 Toyota Prius c.
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Should I lease or buy a 2016 Toyota Prius c?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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