TECH: Introducing the Prius ‘c’ with Entune + more

Here at FILTER, we get some pretty unique opportunities to dip our hands into what’s buzzing around and all things in between. One of our teammates recently got an exclusive invite to check out one of the latest innovations in the high-tech and automotive industry presented by Toyota. As a company who's established their mark amongst all ages and lifestyles across the board, the company gave us big news in 2011 announcing the expansion of the Prius into a “family” of vehicles.

Toyota kicked things off in the Fall of 2011 with release of the Prius v, followed by the Plug-In Prius which is currently in production and hitting the California shores in the next few months. They put together an event in San Diego this month to give select members of the press an opportunity to check out the Prius c, the newest addition to the family launching this Spring.

A few of the key features they pointed out which should appeal to the FILTER reader include:

Entune System

Entune system (in the two highest of four available option packages) which integrates Toyota’s new Entune smart-phone app technology with Pandora, OpenTable, Bing (a bit surprised it wasn’t Google as were others) and more.

Mileage

With an advertised 53 city and 46 freeway/ average 50 mpg, there’s few cars that can compete in the price range. Prius c has functions for ECO and EV mode,  which helps drivers and you hyper-milers drive most efficiently. There is even an ECO-SCORE function which let’s you see how efficient you are and compare to past trips… More miles and fewer emissions - that’s what we Californians like, right?

Price

Starting at $19,000 and loaded at $23,000 is a pretty awesome reason to like this car. While the Prius may be for “everyone” and the v may be for the soccer-moms, the Prius c is cooler looking than a Fiat or Nissan Leaf and still pretty damn affordable.  This also leaves you some money each month to save up for that new Fender Jazzmaster you’ve been wanting to buy.  


Aside from the affordability  appeal (lowest option package starting at a $19,000 sticker), the newest Prius is bound to please many an indie rocker and tastemakers with the Entune system. Keep an eye out for the next and newest member of the Prius family, the smaller and more-affordable Prius c landing at dealerships nationwide this May!