The Good
The 2013 Toyota Prius c boasts exceptional fuel efficiency, a major draw for practical buyers. Its proven Toyota reliability offers peace of mind. The compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in urban environments. While not luxurious, its design is modern and appealing, and the hybrid powertrain provides a uniquely quiet driving experience. The car's affordability also makes it a great value.
The Bad
The 2013 Toyota Prius c has some weaknesses. Its acceleration is slow, and the engine can be noisy during hard acceleration. The interior materials are basic. The ride can be firm, and taller drivers may find the front seats uncomfortable on long trips. Be sure to check the hybrid battery's health, as replacement can be costly. Overall, consider these trade-offs for its fuel efficiency and price.
2013 Toyota Prius c: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a hybrid system
- Horsepower: Total system horsepower of 99 hp (74 kW)
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA Estimated: 53 mpg city / 46 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 11.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Prius c One: Basic features, including automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a basic audio system.
- Prius c Two: Adds cruise control, a 6-speaker audio system, and a center console with armrest.
- Prius c Three: Upgrades to include Display Audio system with navigation and Entune app suite, keyless entry, and upgraded interior trim.
- Prius c Four: Adds alloy wheels, heated front seats, SofTex-trimmed seats, and a sunroof.
- Safety Features (all trims):
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Traction Control (TRAC)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist (BA)
- Smart Stop Technology (SST)
- Nine airbags
- Battery: Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack.
2013 Toyota Prius c Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2013 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Prius c |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 5-Door |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | OBU |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1133.98 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.5-L |
| Engine Size | 1.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | Continuously Variable |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,765 USD |
| Invoice Price | $20,261 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $810 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Toyota Prius c Have?
Recalls for the 2013 Prius c were issued related to potential fuel leakage due to a crack in the fuel tank and issues with the occupant classification system which could affect airbag deployment. Potential buyers should verify whether these recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability largely depends on proper maintenance. Neglecting regular oil changes, brake inspections, and hybrid system checks can lead to premature wear and failure of components. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters, so inspecting the undercarriage for corrosion is advisable. Although generally reliable, it is recommended to get a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to the hybrid system, brakes, and suspension.
How long will the 2013 Toyota Prius c last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to modern standards. The Prius c relies on standard safety equipment such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist (BA). It also includes Smart Stop Technology (SST) and nine airbags as standard. There are no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available, even as options.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) vary. The 2013 Prius c received a "Good" rating in most crashworthiness tests, but its small overlap front crash test performance was initially rated as "Marginal". The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it an overall rating of four out of five stars. Optional features were limited, mainly focusing on upgrades within the trim levels, such as alloy wheels, heated seats, and a sunroof on the Four trim.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2013 Toyota Prius c Prices and Market Value
2013 Toyota Prius c Cost of Ownership
2013 Toyota Prius c Fuel Efficiency
2013 Toyota Prius c Safety Rating
IIHS
2013 Toyota Prius c Warranty
Basic
Drivetrain
Free Maintenance
Hybrid Component
Roadside
Rust
2013 Toyota Prius c Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Toyota Prius c Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of reliability, the Prius c held an edge over the Ford Fiesta, which had some known reliability issues. Feature-wise, the Prius c offered a decent range, though some competitors provided more advanced technology at similar price points. The Honda Insight, while also a hybrid, was larger and more expensive.
Alternatives to consider include the Honda Fit for its sporty handling and versatile cargo space, or a newer used Toyota Prius for increased space and features. If fuel economy is the top priority and budget is a concern, the 2013 Toyota Prius c remains a strong contender. However, for those seeking a more engaging driving experience or more features, exploring other options might be beneficial.
Ranks #106 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 106 | 2013 Toyota Prius c | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Toyota Prius c a Good Sedan?
PriusC2013 on March 15, 2021
Extremely Reliable80,000 miles so far on my 2013 Prius C. My car has been hit twice and has come out of those repairs with zero issues, still feels like the car it was the day I bought it (purchased new from dealership). Incredible gas mileage. Only downside to this car is that it is not a quiet ride. I can really only use Bluetooth for calls if I’m driving around the city, as soon as I’m on the highway it’s too loud.
Home Weehawken on November 14, 2019
53 MPG and ULTRA-RELIABLEOur Prius C has served us faithfully for years and has returned excellent value for our money. It consistently returns 50 mpg or better, We wouldn't hesitate to buy another one.
priusCfan on February 1, 2019
Gas efficient, sporty, reliable, enjoyable!This is the best car I've ever owned. I frequently get 60 mpg. I love the look on the exterior and interior. Its size makes it easy to park and the space is utilized very well--hatchback trunk is all the trunk space I've ever needed. Great car!
Frigidair on January 11, 2019
Fun Car to DriveI have owned the 2013 Prius C trim level 4 for about two years now, so this is a review of that trim level. Most important for me is reliability, which has been excellent so far--this year and model has an excellent reputation in that regard overall. The fuel economy is stellar I average about 45 to 50 miles per gallon in a mix of city and highway driving. Winter fuel economy is lower (I live in Minnesota), the other three seasons higher. The car is packed with features for the price--navigation system, Bluetooth phone, heated front seats, electric moonroof, projector headlamps and (controllable) daylight running lights, smart key entry and push-button start, rear wiper, climate control, satellite radio etc. etc. The user interface is quite simple to navigate. Other pluses: excellent acceleration 0-30 and good above 60, excellent road-holding, excellent braking, excellent headlamps, nice large temperature-selection dial with indents every 1 degree F, attractive and very user-friendly interior styling and layout, very comfortable front seats, fold-down rear seat and being a hatchback gives major cargo room for a little car, great infotainment system. Minuses: poor acceleration 30-60; ride is rough; poor exterior finish (loose sills, panels don't quite fit together); creaking plastic interior, interior rattles (especially moonroof), road noise, and wind noise; they've auto'd the climate control system to death (not just auto fan and temperature but makes stupid decisions for you like turning A/C on at 0 degrees F or changing the air direction on you); climate control air-direction is a button, not dial, which means multiple presses to change and taking your eyes off the road for too long; the 12V battery terminals are in a really stupid inaccessible location under the back seat in the cabin, which means when inevitably in MN you need to jump start to get to a location for battery replacement, it's going to be difficult; stupid tire-pressure lamp lights not when the pressure is low but when the temperature drops; engine seems to race when the interior heating calls for heat and the temperature outside is low (e.g. -20F). Most of these minuses are quite small annoyances when compared with the pluses--over all I love my little Prius C.
jsuits on January 7, 2019
Super Reliable, Excellent MileageThe Prius C two package is extremely practical. It is peppy off the line, and fun to drive. It has excellent cargo options for its size. It is comfortable for four and a bit tight for five. It is very reliable.
SWallace on December 24, 2018
Most reliable car I have ever owned.This car is amazing! Great on gas mileage! Comfortable, compact, and quiet to drive (Feels like a space ship). Cost effective and easy to take overseas!
Spencer on October 17, 2018
Excellent Long Haul Freeway CruiserI purchased my 2013 Prius C-4 in March 2018 with 15k miles for $13k. It now has 52k miles since I drive it non stop from Sacramento CA to Phoenix AZ 850 miles 13 hours each way twice per week. It gets the rated 50+ MPG at 70 MPH, 43 MPG at 85 MPH, and 60 MPG at 60 MPH. It powers thorough the usually hot 120 degrees Palms Springs CA to Phoenix AZ desert at 85 MPH with the AC cranked down to 68 degrees no problem. The Prius C-4 handles the rough CA freeways with ease and hugs the road and turns. I'm an old school V-8 guy and I find the Prius C-4 to be an engineering marvel. As a Ph.D. physicist who designs rockets for a living, I think the Prius C-4 is a rocket scientist dream car!
SonicGodHead on August 5, 2018
Best City Car Ever!!!!The Absolute Best Car to Own Driving Around Los Angeles, Amazing Gas Mileage, Total Ease Parking, So Reliable, Small with Exceptional Room Inside, (2 2X12 combo amps, big pedalboard and 3 guitars with plenty of room to spare)
Cristie d on June 29, 2018
Good carFirst car purchase and I am really pleased. The Prius is very quiet and easy to maneuver. Definitely learning to get used to the brakes. If not done properly I find myself bringing the car to an abrupt stop even though I'm gently applying the brake. I guess it's a matter of technique. Not crazy about the hatchback style but as long as it gets me from point a to point b I'm content. Overall very pleased and I look forward to driving the xxxx outta my hatchback!
Deryk Grimes on May 26, 2018
The worst seats I have ever ownedMaybe it has defective front seats. The padding has pushed into the seat frame. This worries me because the seats have airbags. The reliability has been great, but the comfort is terrible.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.