January 31, 2012 – Toyota Canada has announced its plans to bring the “dynamically styled” five-door hatchback Prius c to market in March 2012, and introduce Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment. This follows the U.S. debut of the 2012 Prius c at the North American International Auto Show earlier this month.

The letter “c” represents “city” in the Prius c name, designed to function as an urban-friendly vehicle with an engaging driving experience, hatchback utility, and a combined fuel consumption rating of 3.7 L/100 km, said the automaker.

“Prius c offers the lowest L/100 km rating of any vehicle without a plug,” it continued.

The vehicle joins the Prius Family, which includes the third generation Prius liftback, the new Prius v and the Prius plug-in Hybrid, which will debut in 2012.

“With Prius c, Toyota Canada will make the market’s most proven hybrid technology available to subcompact car shoppers with a starting MSRP below $21,000,” it said.

According to Toyota Canada, when the all-new 2012 hatchback arrives in showrooms this spring, it will offer:

• The highest rated fuel efficiency estimate of any vehicle without a plug*; at a combined rating of 3.7 L/100 km;
• The most accessible Prius will feature a starting MSRP below $21,000 with proven hybrid powertrain and premium technology;
• A premium subcompact car experience, thanks to a wide array of available convenience and advanced in-car electronics features, including a standard 3.5in. full colour LCD multi- information display, hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod connectivity, and available Display Audio system with Navigation.

The hybrid system utilizes a 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack located under the rear passenger seat near the centre of the vehicle.

Prius c offers three distinct drive modes: normal, eco, and EV mode. According to the automaker, Eco mode reduces overall energy consumption by governing climate control and throttle to improve vehicle efficiency, while under certain conditions, the EV mode allows the vehicle to be driven solely by electric power for a short distance (about one kilometre) while remaining below 40 km/h.