“Do not purchase a Prius c. I owned 2 other Prius models and I loved them but I do not like this one and I am stuck with it.”
2019 Toyota Prius c: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2019 Toyota Prius c is a simplified two-trim U.S. lineup consisting of L and LE. Otherwise, this small hybrid hatchback carries over with no major mechanical or styling updates.
About the 2019 Toyota Prius c
1st generation Prius c (2012-2019), final U.S. model year; 2017 styling update carried into this closing year.
Toyota positions the Prius c as the smallest, most city-friendly member of the Prius family: a compact five-door hatchback with proven hybrid efficiency, easy parking, and useful cargo flexibility. Its main draw is not speed or luxury, but a simple mix of low fuel use, hatchback practicality, and standard safety technology in a footprint that works well in tight urban spaces.
The L is the straightforward version, with a 1.5-liter hybrid system, a 6.1-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and a split-folding rear seat. The LE is the more convenient and connected trim, with built-in navigation, keyless entry, and push-button start. Both trims have Toyota’s driver-assistance suite and an EPA rating of 46 mpg combined.
What changed, by category
Trim lineup
Toyota dropped the four-trim One, Two, Three, and Four range and replaced it with a simpler two-trim lineup named L and LE.
2019 Toyota Prius c specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, ECVT | Automatic, ECVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 48 mpg | 48 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 43 mpg | 43 mpg |
| Horsepower | 99 hp | 99 hp |
| Torque | 82 lb-ft | 82 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 17.1 cu-ft | 17.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2019 Toyota Prius c?
The trim lineup changed for 2019. Toyota replaced the previous One, Two, Three, and Four grades with two trims called L and LE; the powertrain, safety equipment, and exterior design otherwise carried over.
Was the 2019 Toyota Prius c redesigned?
No, the 2019 Prius c was not redesigned. It carried over the exterior update introduced for 2018 and remained part of the original generation that began with the 2012 model.
What is the difference between the 2019 Prius c L and LE?
The LE has more convenience and infotainment equipment than the L. Its main upgrades are built-in navigation, keyless entry on the front doors and liftgate, and push-button start; both trims use the same hybrid system and safety suite.
Did the 2019 Toyota Prius c get a new hybrid system?
No, the 2019 Prius c kept its 1.5-liter hybrid system and automatic transmission. Its EPA rating remained 46 mpg combined.
What safety features are standard on the 2019 Toyota Prius c?
Every 2019 Prius c has a forward-collision warning system with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Toyota groups these features under the Toyota Safety Sense C name.
2019 Toyota Prius c Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2019 Toyota Prius c.
3.9
2019 Toyota Prius c
(20 reviews)