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It seems as though my driving route does not really make the most of a hybrid vehicle’s powertrain. Over the week, during my regular commute, I only travelled 8 percent EV mode, and as a result I averaged only 4.8L/100km for the week. What did strike me as interesting, though, is that on a day trip to Peterborough and back, I averaged a pleasing 4.2L/100km.
So yes, you can save some fuel with a hybrid, but how much will vary greatly depending on your driving routine. This vehicle is in our long-term fleet so we will keep track to see if, with our various driving styles, it would pay off in the long run to go with a compact hybrid over a conventional compact vehicle.
*Rating out of 5:
2012 Toyota Prius C
Acceleration 2.5/5
Handling 3.5/5
Comfort 3.5/5
Interior 3/5
Audio System 4/5
Gas Mileage 4/5
Overall 3.5/5
*Rating based on vehicle’s classification
2012 Toyota Prius C
MSRP as tested (including destination): $27,000
For more information on Toyota and the Prius C visit Toyota Canada
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So last week I was driving a vehicle that many considered underpowered with more than 150 horsepower, and yet no comments this week on the lowly 99-horsepower Prius C? I guess it can be excused, as this is a much smaller car but it certainly is not fast. Surprisingly, though it feels quicker than a Yaris, perhaps due to the CVT and the extra torque that the electric motor provides.
Acceleration is smooth, but not brisk, and switching between ECO mode and normal mode simply changes the sensitivity of the throttle — actual performance doesn’t change.

The first thing I noticed in the Prius C is that it is much louder inside than the Mazda CX-5 I just got out of. But that said, the road noise is about equal to that of other sub-compact cars, so despite the price premium you are unfortunately not offered a premium cabin experience.
It has been asked if this Prius is fun to drive. I suppose that depends on your definition of fun. It is not fast, so that kind of fun is out the window, but it does sip fuel, and that part can be enjoyable. But is it fun to toss around? Yes, it is, actually, although ultimate grip levels are hampered by the low rolling resistance tires; the Prius C is small and light and this allows you to toss it into corners to inject a little entertainment into your drive.
Surprisingly, though, for a city car, the turning radius is rather poor. I’d like another half lock on the steering wheel after having been surprised a few times when entering parking spots. Today, I had to readjust my poor parking effort twice before I was satisfied, due to unexpectedly running out of steering wheel lock on entry.
http://www.autos.ca/car-test-drives/day-by-day-review-2012-toyota-prius-c?all=1