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2016 Toyota Prius c: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2016 Toyota Prius c is the addition of the limited-run Persona Series, a style-focused special edition based on the Two trim. Otherwise, the Prius c carries over without major mechanical, safety, or technology updates.
About the 2016 Toyota Prius c
1st generation Prius c (US 2012-2019), second model year after the 2015 styling/interior refresh.
Toyota positions the Prius c as the smallest Prius family member: a nimble 5-door hybrid hatchback built for city driving, tight parking, and very low fuel use. Its core appeal is Prius-style hybrid efficiency in a shorter, lighter package that still has usable rear-seat space and hatchback cargo room. Against ordinary subcompact hatchbacks, Toyota leans on hybrid economy, maneuverability, and easy everyday usability more than power or premium-cabin feel.
The 2016 Prius c lineup ranges from the straightforward One to the comfort-focused Four, all using the same 1.5-liter hybrid system. The Three stands out for built-in navigation and push-button start, while the Four adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a moonroof. The Persona Series gives the Two trim a rarer factory look without changing its performance.
What changed, by category
Styling
Toyota added the limited-run Persona Series, based on the Two trim, with special exterior details around the lower grille, headlights, windows, and mirror caps.
2016 Toyota Prius c specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 53 mpg | 53 mpg | 53 mpg | 53 mpg | 53 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 46 mpg | 46 mpg | 46 mpg | 46 mpg | 46 mpg |
| Horsepower | 99 hp | 99 hp | 99 hp | 99 hp | 99 hp |
| Torque | 82 lb-ft | 82 lb-ft | 82 lb-ft | 82 lb-ft | 82 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 17.1 cu-ft | 17.1 cu-ft | 17.1 cu-ft | 17.1 cu-ft | 17.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Cruise Control | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| LED Headlights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Toyota Prius c?
The biggest change is the addition of the limited-run Persona Series. It is based on the Two trim and adds distinctive factory exterior details rather than mechanical upgrades.
Was the 2016 Toyota Prius c redesigned?
No, the 2016 Prius c was not redesigned. It is the second model year after the 2015 styling and interior refresh, and most of the lineup carries over.
Did the 2016 Toyota Prius c get a different hybrid system?
No, the 2016 Prius c retains the same 1.5-liter hybrid system and continuously variable automatic transmission used for 2015.
What is the 2016 Prius c Persona Series?
The 2016 Persona Series is a limited-run appearance edition based on the Prius c Two. It keeps the Two trim’s hybrid hardware and everyday features but adds unique exterior accents around the lower grille, headlights, windows, and mirror caps.
Which 2016 Toyota Prius c trim has built-in navigation?
The 2016 Prius c Three has a 6.1-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation. It also has Smart Key entry, push-button start, six-speaker audio, and Touch Tracer steering-wheel controls.
2016 Toyota Prius c Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Toyota Prius c.
4.1
2016 Toyota Prius c
(120 reviews)
“I love the fact that it's fuel efficient and doesn't make much noise and is practically a silent vehicle. Interior is amazing as well and has everything you need to drive safely. For a small vehicle it contains a good amount of storage. Definitely makes for a great city car!”
“Comfort behind the wheel as there feels like a lot of elbow and head room . Good gas mileage especially as I do very limited driving.”