The so-called ‘Toyota Prius Family’ has expanded to the extent when it is difficult to distinguish one vehicle from another.
In recent years, Toyota has added a larger Prius v and a smaller Prius c to the lineup and divided all of them into several versions. We will try to explain the differences for those who is interested in buying a new Prius.
Exterior Differences
All of the Priuses are designed to fit their own niche of the market which means they are different in sizes and shapes. Prius c (‘c’ stands for compact) is the smallest among them. It has a traditional hatchback body configuration; its styling is simpler and not so distinctive as the standard Prius and the Prius v.
The standard Prius is a mid-size sedan with familiar profile that hasn’t changed much since 2004. The Prius v looks similar from the front but has an additional space in the back like in a conventional station wagon.
2016 Toyota Prius Two Eco © Toyota Motor Corporation
Interior Differences
Basically, the interior is the same, though some minor differences exist. The Prius c has a floor-mounted gear selector, for instance, and circular air vents, as opposed to squared air vents in other larger models.
2016 Toyota Prius c © Toyota Motor Corporation
Mechanical Differences
While Prius and Prius v share the 1.8L 4-Cyl. ECVT Hybrid engine, Prius c uses a little bit less powerful 1.5L 4-Cyl. ECVT Hybrid engine.
As for the fuel economy, here are the numbers: Prius – 54/50/52 (there is also a Prius Two Eco version that has a slightly better MPG – 58/53/56); Prius c – 53/46/50; and Prius v – 44/40/42.
2016 Toyota Prius v © Toyota Motor Corporation
Features & Technology Differences
Every Prius model has a number of versions and trims that offer extended features. However, some features available on the Prius and the Prius v such as a lane-departure warning or an adaptive cruise control are missing in the Prius c. It also doesn’t feature the solar roof option, which can use solar power to lessen the burden on the air-conditioning system.
Conclusion
Each Prius has its own merits. While the Prius c looks not so distinctive and well-equipped as larger models, it has a lower price. Starting MSRP for Prius is $24,200, for Prius c – $19,560, and for Prius v – $26,675.
