Toyota Announces Pricing For 2012 Prius C
Toyota announced Wednesday manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the all-new 2012 Prius c which extends Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment. The new five-door hatchback will arrive at Toyota dealerships in March 2012.
Designed to function as a city-friendly vehicle with an “engaging driving experience,” hatchback utility, and an EPA-estimated city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, Prius c offers the highest city mpg rating of any vehicle without a plug. The all-new Prius c joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius Liftback, the new Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which will be available in early 2012.
Unique Place in the Prius Family
A gateway into the Prius Family, the new Prius c is aimed at younger shoppers seeking a smartly designed, fuel-sipping subcompact car packing advanced drivetrain and in-car technology.
The SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) rated Prius c is billed to offer “engaging driving dynamics and superior urban maneuverability.”
When the 2012 Prius c arrives in showrooms in March 2012, this all-new hatchback will offer the highest rated city fuel economy of any vehicle without a plug – 53 mpg in the city, and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg.
Additionally, the vehicle is slated to have a starting MSRP of $18,950 with a proven hybrid powertrain and premium technology
The Prius c will also have a wide array ofadvanced in-car electronics features, including a standard 3.5-inch full color TFT multi-information display, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod connectivity, and available Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune.
Prius c: Four Grades
The Prius c will be available in four grades, and all Prius c models will be equipped with a Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.5-liter DOHC, 16-valve engine with VVT-i, a 60 hp permanent magnet AC synchronous motor, and a 144 volt nickel-metal hydride battery which generates 25.9 hp of electric propulsion for a total hybrid system net output of 99 horsepower.
The Prius c will be equipped with 9 standard airbags, driver and front passenger Advanced Whiplash-Injury-Lessening seats and Toyota’s Star Safety System that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
The Prius c One base grade will offer many standard features such as automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, multi-information display and Bluetooth hands free phone controls; and remote keyless entry with illuminated entry.
The Prius c Two grade offers a 6-speaker audio system, variable intermittent windshield wipers, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with adjustable headrests, cruise control, engine immobilizer, center console with armrest and storage compartment, and a cargo area tonneau cover.
The Prius c Three grade enhances the technology in the vehicle with improved audio and connectivity. The Prius c Three includes a Display Audio system with Navigation and Entune that adds a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Sirius XM Satellite Radio capability (includes 3 month trial subscription to XM Select Package), HD Radio with iTunes Tagging, USB port with iPod connectivity and control, vehicle information with customizable settings, and advanced voice recognition. Toyota Entune includes Bing and Pandora; real-time info including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports, and stocks. Apps available spring 2012 at no charge include iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com and OpenTable. Access to Entune services is complimentary for three years.
In addition, the Prius c Three grade includes color-keyed outside door handles with touch- sensor lock/unlock feature, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, Multi-information Display, Bluetooth hands free phone and voice command controls, a Touch Tracer Display, and a Smart Key System on the front doors and liftgate with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry. The Prius c Three allows buyers to add 15-inch alloy wheels and a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade as optional equipment.
The Prius c Four grade is distinguished by its 15-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels, Softex-trimmed heated front seats, color-keyed heated power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, and integrated fog lamps. Optional equipment for the Prius c Four includes 16-inch, 8-spoke alloy wheels with 195/50R16 tires and power tilt telescopic moonroof with sunshade.