Hybrid automobiles are extremely popular, but few people can say that the love affair lives on once they check out the sticker price. Toyota believes that their new take on the Prius - the Prius C hatchback - will keep the fires burning up. According to reports, the cost of the Prius C will fall below $19,000 before destination charges. Article resource: Toyota Prius C hatchback makes hybrids affordable


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Toyota is claiming that the Prius C will get the very best gas mileage available for all automobiles on the industry with gasoline in them with 53 mpg in the city. The hybrid will be accessible in March 2012



The hybrid can go one mile on battery alone as long as it is going under 25 mph. On the freeway, the hybrid only gets 46 miles per gallon, which is less than the city as the car does not have a chance to rest. That means the Prius C gets a total of 50 mpg combined.



Depending on the Toyota Yaris platform, the Prius C will feature a shorter wheel_base_, 19 inches shorter than the Yaris overall. The Prius C is also about 550 pounds lighter than the standard Prius, contributing to the increased economy. The weight is saved by going with a smaller displacement engine, 1.5 liters in contrast to the standard Prius total of 1.8 liters. Combined output of the 73-hp Atkinson cycle engine and the hybrid motors equate to 99 hp, reports Automotive News.



Went from concept to reality



Reports on last year's Detroit Auto Show spoke of a Prius C concept with “exuberant styling” like nothing the Prius line had seen before, but what will be produced, while smaller than the existing Prius, is altogether familiar. Prius' little brother will include nine airbags standard, 15-inch wheels, automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic wheel, remote locks and illuminated entry. The stereo will feature a USB port, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free access.



In short, the Prius C is Toyota's effort to bring younger drivers into the hybrid fold. For those who are trying to find family hybrid economy, the recent Prius V wagon release is sure to satisfy. By the summer of 2012, a plug-in Prius all-electric vehicle will reportedly be available.



Video of the Prius C



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i765QabKAgM



Sources

Automotive News

Cars.com

Chicago Tribune