Toyota Prius c, 2012: Prices revealed for four models in expandng hybrid family

Toyota has announced a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) range of $18,950 to $23,230 for the 2012 Prius c which extends Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment.

The 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 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.

The Prius c will find favor with 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 will offer engaging driving dynamics and superior urban maneuverability.

 
The Prius c will be available in four grades. 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).

Here are the prices for the 2012 Toyota Prius c

Prius c One, $18,950; Prius c Two, $19,900; Prius c Three, $21,635; Prius c Four, $23,230.