2016 Toyota Prius c Gains New Safety Features and a New Special Edition

2016 Toyota Prius c (Credit: © Toyota)

The Toyota Prius c, the smallest of the Toyota hybrids, underwent a refresh last year, so it is no surprise that it is remaining stylistically identical to last year’s model. However, it will undergo a decent amount of changes in terms of available features, particularly safety.

For the 2016 model year, the Prius c will receive a new Toyota Safety Sense C safety package. This system adds in high-tech features typically not found in a car the size of the Prius c, including a pre-collision system, lane-departure assist, and automatic high beams. Toyota makes it pretty clear that TSS-C is not a standard feature, but it also does not mention which of the four trims (One, Two, Three, and Four) it will be available with.

In addition to the TSS-C, the 2016 Prius c will continue with the same safety features as last year. These include nine airbags, vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop.

2016 Toyota Prius c Persona Edition (Credit: © Toyota)

Also new for 2016 is the Persona Series Special Edition. This model, which Toyota based on the Prius c Two and will limit to 1,500 units, comes only in an exclusive black exterior color with splashes of Electric Lime or Cherry Pearl on the lower front grille trim, beneath the headlights, under the side windows, on the side-view mirror caps, and on the backside of the rearview mirror. Also included in this special package are black 15-inch wheels and a “Persona Series” badge.

Powering the 2016 Prius c is the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 73 horsepower and 82 pound-feet as last year. This thrifty engine pairs up with an electric motor to deliver a total of 99 horsepower. While the power is on the low side, its 53 mpg city rating and one mile of EV-only driving under 25 mph are its real strengths.

Toyota didn’t mention when the base 2016 Prius c will hit showrooms, but it did mention that the special Persona Series Special Edition would arrive in December.