The 2017 Toyota Prius c gets 46 MPG combined. This is the core feature of this subcompact hybrid, designed for buyers who want to save money on gas, even if it means a smaller interior and less performance. It’s basic, efficient transportation, not a performance car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Prius c gets 48 MPG in the city and 43 MPG on the highway. The city MPG is very good, showing how well the hybrid system works in stop-and-go driving. The highway MPG is lower but still better than most regular gas cars of the same size. Hybrids usually do better in cities because they use regenerative braking and electric power more at lower speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Toyota Prius c at $950. This is calculated assuming 15,000 miles driven per year and average national gas prices, which change. This number highlights how the Prius c can save you money on gas compared to less fuel-efficient vehicles. Your actual cost will depend on your driving and local gas prices, but $950 gives you a good idea of the potential savings.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a guide, but your actual MPG can vary. Many Prius c owners report getting close to the EPA numbers if they drive carefully. However, fuel economy can decrease with quick acceleration and lots of highway driving. Tire pressure, maintenance, and weather also matter. The Prius c’s MPG depends on your driving style; smooth and slow driving will give you better results than driving aggressively.

How it compares

The 2017 Prius c has some of the best fuel economy in its class, even among other hybrids. For example, a similar Honda Fit gets about 36 MPG combined when it only uses gasoline. The Kia Niro hybrid, which is a bit bigger, gets around 50 MPG combined, but it costs more. The larger Prius gets around 52 MPG combined, which might be important for buyers who need more space and want to save even more gas. Comparing all Toyota fuel economy data can help you see all of Toyota’s gas-saving options. Looking at PRIUS MPG across all years will also show you how the Prius c compares over time. The Honda Insight, a hybrid like the Prius c that is no longer made, got around 42 MPG combined in 2014, showing how well the Prius c performed when it was new.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate slowly to get the best gas mileage in the Prius c. Avoid fast starts and try to speed up in a gradual way. The hybrid system works best when it is using the electric motor as often as it can, and fast acceleration makes the gasoline engine turn on more.

Use Eco mode. This mode improves fuel efficiency by making the throttle less sensitive and changing the climate control settings. The car might feel a little slower, but you can save a noticeable amount of gas, especially when driving in the city.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Tires that don’t have enough air in them cause more resistance, which uses more gas. Check your tire pressure often and fill them to the pressure listed on the driver’s side door. Even a little bit of difference in tire pressure can change how much gas you use.

Watch the traffic ahead. By paying attention to traffic lights and congestion, you can avoid braking and accelerating more than you need to. Coasting to a stop when you can lets the regenerative braking system store energy and recharge the battery.

Don’t use accessories too much. Air conditioning, headlights, and other electrical accessories all use energy, which can reduce gas mileage, especially in the city. Use these items only when necessary to save gas. Consider opening the windows instead of using the A/C when possible.