MELBOURNE: Toyota’s updated Prius C has arrived in Australia, bringing refreshed styling and price cuts for 2015.
Thanks to the Free Trade Agreement with Japan, Toyota’s baby hybrid hatch now starts at $22,990 for the entry-level model and $25,990 for the up-spec i-Tech variant – both plus on-road costs.
Buyers of the 2015 model not only save on their initial purchase but also at the bowser, as the updated model retains the frugal 3.9 l/100km fuel figure as its predecessor.
The same 74kW hybrid drivetrain carries over from last year, comprising an electric engine matched with a 1.5 litre petrol engine making 54kW/111Nm.
The Prius C also retains its 1-2km electric-only range at speeds of up to 40km/h.
Exterior changes include a fresh face in line with Toyota’s Yaris and Corolla models, new headlights (LED in i-Tech), a new bumper and new fog light surrounds.
The base model gets new wheel covers for its 15-inch wheels while the i-Tech retains its 15-inch alloys. Importantly for many Australian buyers, both models come with a full-size spare.
For added ‘green’ factor, the updated Prius C uses more Toyota Super Olefin Polymer (TSOP) and Thermo Plastic Olefin (TPO) materials for easier recycling.
New LED tail-lights are fitted for 2015, and Toyota has added Tango (orange), Aura (light blue) and Zest (lime) to the list of available paint finishes.
New colour themes continue on the inside, with new fabrics on the base Prius C and silver highlights on the i-Tech.
Climate control settings are now channelled through a multi-purpose dial, which also controls the standard air conditioning.
Other interior features include a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, keyless entry and start, while the i-Tech adds privacy glass, a premium steering wheel and satellite navigation.
Toyota says the suspension has been re-tuned for an improved ride, better steering response and added stability through corners.
Safety features include a reversing camera, seven airbags, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes and emergency brake signal, and the new model retains its 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Toyota says its Prius C is now the cheapest petrol-electric hybrid on the Australian market, joining the Prius, Prius V and Camry in Toyota’s local hybrid range.
“Prius C is a smaller and lighter sibling to the Prius hatch yet it still provides ample space for five adults thanks to Toyota’s clever solutions,” Toyota Australia’s Tony Cramb said.
“A great example is the placement of the hybrid battery and fuel tank under the rear seat, which means there is also room for plenty of luggage and a full-size spare wheel.”
Mr Cramb said an updated Prius V – first unveiled at the LA Auto Show – will arrive mid-year, while the all-new Prius is scheduled to debut next year.
The 2015 Toyota Prius C is on sale now, backed by Toyota’s capped-price servicing plan at $140 each for up to six standard services.
