Toyota Prius C 2012 review: snapshot

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers.

But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

Most people know what a Prius is, but few know the hybrid now comes in three different sizes. Prius C is the smallest and cheapest of them and by virtue of that fact the most accessible.

How much?

The base model is priced from $23,990 plus on-road costs. Another $3000 buys you the up market i-Tech, which adds leather, satnav and alloys.

What are competitors?

Nothing really in this size. The nearest is the Honda Insight. As the target is fuel economy however you could look at something with a diesel engine like the VW Polo or perhaps Suzuki's little Alto which is also very economical.

What's under the bonnet?

A 1.5-litre petrol engine teamed with an electric motor that delivers a combined 74kW of power.

How does it go?

Surprisingly well. Cruises easily on the freeway and has enough punch for the cut and thrust of city driving. In fact, it thrives on city driving where braking regenerates power for later use.

Is it economical?

Claimed fuel consumption is 3.9 litres/100km. We were getting 4.4 after 570km with 140 to go according to the trip computer. Not bad for a car with a 36-litre fuel tank.

Is it green?

Gets a full five stars from the Govt's Green Guide as does its siblings, producing just 90g/km of CO2

Is it safe?

It's been designed to get five stars but hasn't been crash tested yet. Comes with seven airbags, as well as a reversing camera, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution, and hill-start assist.

Is it comfortable?

Surprisingly comfortable too. It's one of the first things we noticed when we got into the car.

What's it like to drive?

Grows on you. The CVT transmission is annoying, but you get used to it.

Is it value for money?

As a cut price hybrid yes. As a high priced Yaris no. Though based on the Yaris it has a longer interior and more leg and hiproom front and back.

Standard kit includes keyless entry and start, cruise, automatic airconditioning and a 6.1-inch touchscreen display.

Bluetooth with audio streaming is also standard along with USB port with iPod connectivity. Packs a full-size spare too.

Would we buy one?

If we lived in the city yes. It's small, manoeuvrable and easily parked and uses very little fuel. Would also be very appealing as a commuter.