Toyota facelifts Prius c

Toyota has released an updated Prius c match, featuring improved body rigidity, cosmetic changes and new technology in the form of a new satellite navigation platform with Suna live-traffic information and Toyota Link connectivity.

The new model costs $590 more at entry level, reflecting the added equipment. That takes the price to $24,040. For the high-grade Prius c i-Tech, the increase is just $30, lifting the price to just $26,540. That keeps the Prius c the most affordable hybrid in Toyota's range.

Externally, the Prius c now measures 4050mm in length, 55mm longer than before. Toyota designers have extended the rear spoiler, but 40mm of that added length is in the nose. The new grille is larger and the i-Tech version incorporates a chrome bar across the intake. Headlights, bumpers, bonnet and front quarter panels have all been restyled. LED tail lights have been redesigned also.

The Prius c i-Tech now rides on a new style of 15-inch alloy wheels and two new colours are introduced: Hornet Yellow (solid) and Aquamarine (premium).

Inside, the Prius c makes the move from a 3.5-inch multi-information display (MID) to one measuring 4.2 inches. At entry level, the Prius c adopts the upmarket steering wheel previously available only in the i-Tech flagship. This wheel, finished in piano black and silver accents, is equipped with the switchgear necessary to operate the MID, essentially a trip computer.

In the centre fascia, the climate control panel has been redesigned, with grouped LCD functions 'floating' within a piano black and chrome bezel. Storage bins in the dash are trimmed in a new, softer material.

Extra spot welds for the rear-wheel housings and larger, stiffer lower rear panels are claimed to enhance the updated car's rigidity and Toyota has reduced weight by specifying a space-saver spare for both grades.

"Prius c excels with its remarkable fuel economy and resultant low environmental impact, both of which are becoming increasingly important factors in any new-car purchase," says Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing, Tony Cramb.

"Equally, Prius c owners appreciate their car for being a practical and roomy five-door hatch that offers zippy city-car motoring at a price that no other hybrid can match.

"Toyota hybrid offerings also include the famous Prius hatch, the seven-seat Prius v and the Camry and Corolla hybrids that have been praised as being the best choices for keen drivers in their respective line-ups."