Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #313]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/autoblog-podcast-313/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/autoblog-podcast-313/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/18/autoblog-podcast-313/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Infiniti model names, new GM trucks, Ford work vans, Hyundai ratted out on economy, Ward's 10 Best Engines autoblog podcast logo

Episode #313 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about Infiniti's confusing model name re-jiggering, the 2014 General Motors pickups, Ford's new Transit line of vans, reports that a domestic automaker ratted on Hyundai/Kia about fuel economy ratings, and Ward's 2012 list of 10 Best Engines. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #313:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Toyota Prius C
2013 Subaru Legacy
2013 Dodge Durango R/T

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:18:25

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #313

Autoblog Podcast #313 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Dec 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 Best2014 chevrolet silverado2014 general motors pickup2014 gm pickup2014 gmc sierraautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 313dodgedodge durangodurangoepafeaturedfuel economyhyundaihyundai fuel economyinfinitiinfiniti qinfiniti qxkiakia fuel economylegacypickupspodcastpodcast 313prius csubarusubaru legacytoyotatoyota prius cwardswards autowards auto 10 best enginesTue, 18 Dec 2012 17:29:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #313Autoblog01:18:25 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20406381/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/18/autoblog-podcast-313/20406381/article-detail.xml 20406381 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> calls out "Five Popular Cars To Avoid"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/consumer-reports-calls-out-five-popular-cars-to-avoid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/consumer-reports-calls-out-five-popular-cars-to-avoid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/09/consumer-reports-calls-out-five-popular-cars-to-avoid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Honda Civic - front three-quarter view, burgundy

Those crusaders of shopping empowerment over at Consumer Reports have put together a list of five cars to avoid, even if their sales numbers suggest otherwise. CR points out that just because a vehicle is making a lot of buzz and ringing cash registers, that doesn't necessarily make it a wise choice for buyers. According to the report, these are vehicles that either tested poorly or have been experiencing poor reliability in their new car surveys.

Perhaps of little surprise is the presence of the Honda Civic on this list. The latest Civic has been getting dinged by auto critics left and right, and CR specifically points to a "Choppy ride, noisy cabin, vague steering, and mediocre interior quality" as reasons for its inclusion on the list. Its a good thing, then, that a short-term update is its way.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Consumer Reports once again voices its disapproval of the Toyota Prius C. We knew they weren't in love with it when they reviewed it back in May, and apparently the passage of time hasn't softened their opinions of Toyota's least-expensive hybrid.

Check out the gallery of all five cars that Consumer Reports is telling buyers to avoid and then weigh in with your thought in Comments.

Consumer Reports calls out "Five Popular Cars To Avoid" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad new carscaravancars to avoidcivicconsumer reportsdodge grand caravanedgeford edgegrand caravanhonda civicjeep libertylibertynew carsprius ctoyota prius cThu, 09 Aug 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20297136/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/09/consumer-reports-calls-out-five-popular-cars-to-avoid/20297136/article-detail.xml 20297136 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/honda-civic-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/honda-civic-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus to get own version of Toyota Prius C?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lexus-to-get-own-version-of-toyota-prius-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lexus-to-get-own-version-of-toyota-prius-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lexus-to-get-own-version-of-toyota-prius-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Toyota Prius C - front three-quarter view - orange

The CT 200h proved that Lexus could make up for the sins against excitement committed by the company's short-lived HS 250h. Its bold styling and greatly improved handling combined with a fuel-efficient drivetrain suggests a brighter future for the compact luxury hybrid segment.

Word is, though, that Lexus is working on a sub-CT hybrid entrant. According to Malaysian automotive outlet Paultan, the diminutive luxury fuel-sipper will be based on the Toyota Prius C. The website has tentatively dubbed the model AS150, but it is here where we must advise that you take some of the report's details with grains of salt in varying sizes. If history provides us with context, any Lexus hybrid would include an "h" in the name, for example.

More believable, though, is the speculation that the powerplant would be a variation of the 1.5-liter Hybrid Synergy Drive module that powers the Prius C. Another alternative floated by Paultan is that an even smaller 1.2-liter turbocharged unit featuring direct injection could find its way into the subcompact's engine bay.

Lexus to get own version of Toyota Prius C? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>as150fuel efficienthybridlexuslexus hybridmpgprius csubcompacttoyota prius cMon, 30 Jul 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20288892/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/30/lexus-to-get-own-version-of-toyota-prius-c/20288892/article-detail.xml 20288892 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-toyota-prius-c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2012-toyota-prius-c-628.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Motors dropping prices hourly on certain cars until they sell]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/ebay-motors-dropping-prices-hourly-on-certain-cars-until-they-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/ebay-motors-dropping-prices-hourly-on-certain-cars-until-they-se/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/ebay-motors-dropping-prices-hourly-on-certain-cars-until-they-se/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



eBay Motors and AutoNation are quickly establishing a reputation for finding new ways to sell cars online. They teamed up for the first time back in March when they tried selling vehicles for half price on the popular auction site. This weekend they're back with another unique promotion that will see the price for certain vehicles drop every hour until they're sold.

The reverse auctions began at 12:00 PM EST today and will run through 8:00 PM EST on Monday, July 2. Each day about 10 vehicles will be posted for sale with an initial Buy it Now price that matches their MSRP. Every hour their prices will drop according to a list of prices that accompanies each auction. A 2012 Nissan Rogue that kicks off the promotion, for instance, is dropping by $500 per hour. The good news is that there is no limit to how far prices can drop, nor a reserve they need to stay above. The only limiting factor is the other person out there who's willing to pay $500 more than you.

As for what sort of vehicles will be sold via this promotion, the list includes vehicles from Chevy, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Nissan and Toyota, and includes popular models like the Camaro, Mustang, F-150, Fusion, Challenger, Charger, Wrangler, Prius C, Camry and more. And in case you're worried about getting the Mechanic's Special, all of the 50-some vehicles being sold this way are still under factory warranty.

Get your wallets ready and head on over to the special landing page to watch the prices drop.

Continue reading eBay Motors dropping prices hourly on certain cars until they sell

eBay Motors dropping prices hourly on certain cars until they sell originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autonationautonation directcamarocamrychevroletdodgeebayebay motorsf-150fordfusionjeepmustangnissanprius creverse auctiontent saletoyotawranglerThu, 28 Jun 2012 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20268275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/28/ebay-motors-dropping-prices-hourly-on-certain-cars-until-they-se/20268275/article-detail.xml 20268275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ebay-motors-autonation-test-sale-reverse-auction_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/ebay-motors-autonation-test-sale-reverse-auction.jpg <![CDATA[Cars.com calls out <i>Consumer Reports</i> over Toyota Prius C verdict]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius C

Cars.com has evidently taken issue with a Consumer Reports video review featured on Autoblog advising consumers that they would be better off buying a used "regular" Prius instead of a 2012 Prius C.

Consumer Reports shouldn't have passed on recommending the Prius C, Cars.com argues: "CR's low testing scores for the Prius C stand in stark contrast to our impressions of the hybrid."

Indeed. Cars.com gushes over the tiny hybrid, saying it might even pick the C over the regular Prius. Furthermore, in attempt to poke CR just a little more, Cars.com notes that used Prius prices are the highest they've been in six months, so looking for a deal there might not make for smart consumer advice.

In a final twist, Cars.com says it didn't name the Yaris-based C as one of its Best Bets, in part, because it relies on Consumer Reports reliability surveys as one metric to qualify any vehicle as a Best Bet. The 2013 C doesn't have enough data to say how reliable it will ultimately be.

Cars.com calls out Consumer Reports over Toyota Prius C verdict originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 prius ccars.comconsumer reportspriusprius cvideoFri, 01 Jun 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/cars-com-calls-out-consumer-reports-over-toyota-prius-c-v/20248791/article-detail.xml 20248791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from <i>Consumer Reports</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Consumer Reports' 2012 Toyota Prius C road test - screencap

Consumer Reports has panned the 2012 Toyota Prius C in a new video review that urges car shoppers to get a used regular Prius over the new baby model, "it's a much better car overall," said Mike Quincy in the review.

The problems Toyota ran into in creating the Prius C appear to be in making it cheaper, according to Consumer Reports. The list of adjectives during the video review included: "lackluster," "hard plastic," "cheap materials," "dead steering" and "slow."

Toyota may see those words as misplaced modifiers compared to the glowing recommendations the larger mainstream Prius has received in its decade-long Synergy drive to becoming the eco-poster child for hypermiling greenies out to save the Earth and ride in California HOV lanes with a single person aboard. (HOV access for most gas-electric hybrids has been discontinued in the Golden State.)

While the Prius C may start at $18,995, its price climbs quickly and its value does not, Consumer Reports said. A new regular Prius starts at $24,000.

However, the bad news from Consumer Reports hasn't hurt Prius C sales, which began in April. During its first month, Toyota sold 4,782 Prius C models, outpacing the other Prius variant, the family-minded Prius V, as well as the subcompact Yaris, which donates its platform for the Prius C.

Scroll down to watch Consumer Reports' full Prius C video review or read more at the source link.

Continue reading 2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports

2013 Toyota Prius C doesn't get much love from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cconsumer reportsgreenpriusprius ctoyotavideoTue, 29 May 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/2013-toyota-prius-c-doesnt-get-much-love-from-consumer-repor/20246865/article-detail.xml 20246865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-c-consumer-reports-20120529.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius now third-most-popular car in the world... sort of]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius - front three-quarter view, maroon

Think you're seeing more Toyota Prius models on the road these days? Well, you are.

Automotive News is reporting that all those increased Prius sales in the U.S. and Japan (see here and here and here and here etc.) have turned the Prius into the world's third-best-selling car model for the first three months of 2012. During the first quarter, the Prius sold 247,230 copies around the world. The only cars that sold more during that time were the Toyota Corolla (300,800) and the Ford Focus (277,000).

There's an asterisk on the Prius' figures: much of that new success is due to the fact that there are a brace of new Prius models, namely the C, V and Plug-in - that have expanded the line, with the C being the "car of the moment in Japan," according to Automotive News. Sales in the U.S. were up 42 percent in the first quarter. The new models and the increased sales make up what AN calls a "Prius surge," one that could be capacity constrained in the States. AN writes that the sales pace could reach 250,000 units, but Toyota only has 220,000 units assigned to the market. More vehicles have been ordered, a Toyota exec says, but whether or not they arrive is uncertain. After last year's production issues, though, this is the good kind of problem to have.

Toyota Prius now third-most-popular car in the world... sort of originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota priushybrid salespriusprius cprius plug-inprius salesprius vtoyotatoyota priustoyota salesTue, 29 May 2012 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246702/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/toyota-prius-now-third-most-popular-car-in-the-world-sort-of/20246702/article-detail.xml 20246702 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-toyota-prius-628.jpg <![CDATA[IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has crowned two sedans and a hatchback as Top Safety Picks: the 2013 Chevrolet Malibe Eco, 2012 Hyundai Azera and 2012 Toyota Prius c. The redesigned 2013 Malibu joins its 2012 model-mate as a Top Pick, and the 2013 earned a good side impact rating even without its optional side airbags.

The Prius c also has siblings that have won the award, the Prius and Prius v. The Azera had been rated in a few earlier tests, but in completing the testing regime with good marks all 'round it earned the accolade. The Top Pick moniker is given to vehicles that score "Good" in the IIHS's front, side, rollover and rear-impact tests.

Have a look below for video of the Malibu and Prius c going through their side-impact exams.

Continue reading IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video]

IIHS crowns three new Top Safety Picks [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 hyundai azera2012 toyota prius c2013 chevrolet malibu2013 chevrolet malibu ecoazerachevrolethyundaiiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetymalibupriusprius cTop Safety PicktoyotaThu, 17 May 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/iihs-crowns-three-new-top-safety-picks/20239069/article-detail.xml 20239069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/malibuecoiihs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/malibuecoiihs.jpg <![CDATA[Edmunds charts last month's quickest-selling cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/edmunds-charts-last-months-quickest-selling-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/edmunds-charts-last-months-quickest-selling-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/edmunds-charts-last-months-quickest-selling-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius C - orange - tight three-quarter front static image

Edmunds has taken the time to sort through the March 2012 sales data to find which were the quickest selling models of the month. According to the site's research, the 2012 Toyota Prius C took the top nod by sitting on dealer lots just eight days before whirring off to a new home. Manufacturers routinely use "days to turn" to evaluate consumer demand, though pesky variables like production capacity can easily tweak the number north or south. That's likely why the Audi Q7 took just 11 days to turn and its smaller sibling, the Q5, took just 13. Audi is having a hard time keeping production in pace with consumer demand.

Other stars of last month's show include the Hyundai Veloster. With an average of 14 days on dealer lots, the model finds itself tied with hardware like the BMW X6 and Subaru Impreza for being quick to turn. You can check out the full list of quickest-sellers by heading over to Edmund's Inside Line.

Edmunds charts last month's quickest-selling cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cbest sellerbest sellersdays to turnhottest sellingprius cquickest selling carstoyotatoyota prius cMon, 30 Apr 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20227235/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/30/edmunds-charts-last-months-quickest-selling-cars/20227235/article-detail.xml 20227235 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-toyota-prius-c_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-toyota-prius-c.jpg <![CDATA[Miami Toyota dealer tacks $7,000 onto price of Prius C *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/miami-toyota-dealer-tacks-7-000-onto-price-of-prius-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/miami-toyota-dealer-tacks-7-000-onto-price-of-prius-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/miami-toyota-dealer-tacks-7-000-onto-price-of-prius-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


A Twitter user with the handle miami4me2c discovered something interesting at a Toyota dealer in Miami and thankfully shared pictures of this unusual Prius C Two window sticker. Remember, the base Prius C starts at just $18,950, and the upgraded Two trim normally starts at $19,900. With the options that dealer Al Hendrickson has added to the car, it should cost $20,839, but then someone at the dealer added a "Market Value Adjustment," which comes in at an astonishing $6,995. Total cost for the "cheap" Prius at this particular dealer? $27,834. We agree with what you just thought: that's completely absurd.

Or is it? We called Al Hendrickson Toyota with some questions for the general manager - why so much? and are people still interested at this price? - but were asked to leave a message and have not yet heard back. But think about it. This is one of the most popular high-efficiency vehicles in the U.S. right now, selling 1,200 units in the first three days it was on sale, and Toyota is increasing production to meet demand (both here and in Japan).

We admit that the market values this car, but does it do so enough to tack on an extra 33 percent? We doubt it - especially when you can get a regular Prius Liftback or Prius V for around that much - but maybe someone down in Florida thinks so. Either way, Toyota representatives wouldn't comment and we know that dealers are independent and don't have to follow the MSRP. Still, $7,000 extra? C'mon, man.

*UPDATE: Toyota gave Autoblog the following statement on the matter: "While Toyota Motor Sales does not advocate mark ups beyond the MSRP, the dealers are independent business operations and though we advise against raising prices beyond suggested retail, ultimately the final price is determined in the negotiations between a dealer and the customer."

Miami Toyota dealer tacks $7,000 onto price of Prius C *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>al hendrickson toyotahybrid pricehybrid price increasemarket value adjustmentmsrpprice gougingpriusprius ctoyotaWed, 21 Mar 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20197511/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/21/miami-toyota-dealer-tacks-7-000-onto-price-of-prius-c/20197511/article-detail.xml 20197511 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/prius-c-7000-dollar-market-adjustment_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/prius-c-7000-dollar-market-adjustment.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota increasing Prius C production to meet high demand at home and abroad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/toyota-increasing-prius-c-production-to-meet-high-demand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/toyota-increasing-prius-c-production-to-meet-high-demand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/toyota-increasing-prius-c-production-to-meet-high-demand/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



When we last asked Toyota representatives about the production capacity of the 2012 Prius C, we were told the company's Iwate, Japan plant could make up to 30,000 units each month. That sounds like a lot, but Toyota is currently sending just 20 percent - 6,000 a month - to the United States.

Back in December, when the car went on sale in Japan, the company received 120,000 orders in the first five days it was on sale. As we noted last week, Toyota also sold 1,200 Prius C units in the first three days it was on sale in the States. The baby Prius may not be as popular here as it is at home, but 6,000 a month sure doesn't seem like it's enough.

The C is made at just one plant, run by Toyota's Kanto Auto Works Ltd. affiliate in northern Japan. A strong yen and all those Japanese orders means that the C models that do get made are mostly delivered to the home country instead of be placed on a boat to be exported. Toyota originally planned to produce just 20,000 C models a month, and is now looking at how to go over even the 30,000-unit level.

By increasing efficiencies at the plant and moving production of non-Prius C models (specifically, the not-available-in-the-U.S. Toyota Ractis) from Iwate to other plants, the unspecified increase should be in place by the middle of 2012. Thus far, there is no official talk about making the C at other plants.

Toyota increasing Prius C production to meet high demand at home and abroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius ciwatekanto auto workspriusprius cprius c productionprius productiontoyotatoyota prius cTue, 20 Mar 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20196966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/20/toyota-increasing-prius-c-production-to-meet-high-demand/20196966/article-detail.xml 20196966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #274 LIVE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-274-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-274-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-274-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #274 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and Chris Shunk is returning to the host chair with a vengance. You can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below, check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #274
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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #274 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius c2013 ford mustang gt2013 nissan altimaaltimaautoblog podcast 274autoblog podcast topicsfordmustangnissanprius ctoyotavolkswagen xl1xl1Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20196431/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-274-live/20196431/article-detail.xml 20196431 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius C outsells monthly totals of Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf in three days]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/toyota-prius-c-outsells-monthly-total-of-chevy-volt-nissan-leaf/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/toyota-prius-c-outsells-monthly-total-of-chevy-volt-nissan-leaf/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/toyota-prius-c-outsells-monthly-total-of-chevy-volt-nissan-leaf/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota Prius C front three-quarter image

Toyota is pretty sure that its expanded Prius family will drive up sales of the world's best-selling hybrid, and the early sales returns indicate that the company is right, right, right.

After the Prius V sold about 8,400 units in the U.S. in the first ten weeks, the smaller, cheaper and more efficient 2012 Toyota Prius C is also getting a lot of attention. Toyota announced today that the C sold 1,201 units in just the first three days it was on sale. That's enough to make it "one of Toyota's fastest-selling vehicles," according to the automaker, which also pointed out that those three days of sales is more than either the Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Volt sold all last month.

If anything, those 1,201 sales are not as impressive as the C managed in Japan (where it is badged 'Aqua') - Toyota obtained 120,000 orders in the first five days it was on sale, though it isn't immediately clear how many units have actually been sold. So far, the newly expanded Prius family has sold almost 10,000 units in the U.S. through the first half of March. This certainly points to the Prius franchise doing well in 2012. Last year in the U.S., Toyota sold 136,463 examples of its Prius Liftback (it sold 140,928 in 2010) and expects to sell 220,000 Prius models of all types here this year.

Continue reading Toyota Prius C outsells monthly totals of Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf in three days

Toyota Prius C outsells monthly totals of Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf in three days originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius chybrid salesleaf salespriusprius cprius c salesprius salestoyotatoyota priustoyota prius ctoyota salesvolt salesFri, 16 Mar 2012 14:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20195176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/16/toyota-prius-c-outsells-monthly-total-of-chevy-volt-nissan-leaf/20195176/article-detail.xml 20195176 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-toyota-prius-c-628z_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-toyota-prius-c-628z.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius C ad campaign begins with "Malti-poo" spot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-priuc-c-ad-campaign-begins-with-malti-poo-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-priuc-c-ad-campaign-begins-with-malti-poo-spot/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-priuc-c-ad-campaign-begins-with-malti-poo-spot/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Prius C Game of Life

The curtain's been lifted on the ad campaign for the Toyota Prius C, and it's all about the game of life via the boardgame The Game of Life. The first spot is called Malti-poo and in it's ad-speaky way it targets "city-dwelling millennials" as it "demonstrates key vehicle attributes in a fun and approachable way." It "embodies the youthful spirit of the vehicle and offers creative content that integrates this iconic childhood game" while it also "offers visual tools and easy ways to share digestible information and collect opinions."

In English: it's trying to hook first-time car buyers on the notable features of the Prius C in inventive ways. Case in point: the Malti-poo spot will be followed by one called "Dolphin Tattoo," and platforms will include broadcast television, print, consumer experience and a YouTube channel that provides car buying and financial advice.

See below for the ad and the press release describing the campaign.

Continue reading Toyota Prius C ad campaign begins with "Malti-poo" spot

Toyota Prius C ad campaign begins with "Malti-poo" spot originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius ccommercialdolphin tattoogame of lifemalti-pooprius ctoyotayoutubeMon, 12 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20189657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/12/toyota-priuc-c-ad-campaign-begins-with-malti-poo-spot/20189657/article-detail.xml 20189657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/priuscgof_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/priuscgof.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Toyota Prius C configurator revs up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-prius-c-configurator-revs-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-prius-c-configurator-revs-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/toyota-prius-c-configurator-revs-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



You can now build and price a little Toyota Prius C of your own, all of which can be done in a configurator that appears to have been designed by Max Headroom and Pixar. The latest and littlest memeber of the Prius family comes in four stock grades, conveniently numbered One, Two, Three and Four. To get the game started you'll need $19,710 in configurator money for the Prius C One - that's an $18,950 base price and $760 for destination charges.

Even the least of the four comes with options like Bluetooth and remote keyless entry, the only conspicuous base-model giveaway being the 15-inch steel wheels. Head for the Prius C Four, as we did, and you'll start at $23,990 and get all the trimmings. The single most substantive option at this height is a $1,150 set of premium, bladed alloy wheels to replace the standard alloys. They aren't even an option on the One. The other exterior and interior options are mainly cosmetic, like protective film and side moldings, or convenience, like an ashtray cup and a cargo tray. Checking every box will set you back $26,287.

It's pretty straightforward - for instance, there are nine exterior colors, one is black, then there are two variations on white, red and blue. But head on over to Toyota's site and see what you can make because after all, you can never run out of configurator money.

2012 Toyota Prius C configurator revs up originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cconfiguratorprius cprius c configuratortoyotatoyota prius c configuratorMon, 12 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20190843/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/12/toyota-prius-c-configurator-revs-up/20190843/article-detail.xml 20190843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/priuscconfig_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/priuscconfig.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Baby Of The Family Will Play A Big Role



Toyota's new 2012 Prius C doesn't look like a math problem, but that's what it is.

Hidden behind its attractive hatchback body and Toyota Synergy Drive hybrid powertrain, the Prius C is just a bunch of numbers. Numbers like the car's miles per gallon rating, its MSRP, how many can be produced and how many Toyota hopes to sell. Toyota ran these numbers through its "Do we build it?" formula, which is what caused the Prius C to come into being, but the good news is that this smallest of Prii adds up to more than what was put into it, and even introduces a bit of fun to the appliance-like Prius driving experience. Not much, mind you, but enough that its target audience - young people who want to buy the most efficient gas-powered vehicle on the market today - should take notice.

Here are some of the calculations that Toyota is making for its new Prius family. Instead of selling 136,463 "normal" Prius Liftbacks as it did last year (down from 140,928 in 2010), the Japanese automaker believes that three new models - the bigger V, the smaller C and the Plug-In version - will push cumulative Prius sales up to 220,000 in 2012 and then go up from there.

Last year, Toyota's group vice president for U.S. sales, Bob Carter, said he expects the Prius to be the automaker's number one nameplate by 2020. Sure, the Prius continues to sell well in green car circles and has been the best selling car in Japan for a year and a half, but for Carter's statement to come true, the Prius family would have to outsell the almighty Camry. Think about that. Think about the ambition - and challenge - behind those words. This is the equation that the Prius C needs to solve.

Continue reading 2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video]

2012 Toyota Prius C [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius cfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivepriusprius cprius c first driveprius c reviewtoyotaFri, 10 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168533/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/2012-toyota-prius-c-first-drive-review/20168533/article-detail.xml 20168533 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/#commentsFiled under: ,

Toyota Prius C

During the Detroit Auto Show, Toyota said the new Prius C would start at under $19,000. Today, we learn that this is like a lesson from Obi-Wan: what Toyota told us was true, from a certain point of view.

The base level Prius C One's MSRP is indeed $18,950, but that doesn't include a $760 destination charge, and you can easily spend north of $23,000 for the top-of-the-line Prius C Four. Still, that's a raging deal for a car estimated to get a fuel economy rating of 53/46/50 miles per gallon (city/highway/combined) from the EPA. As Toyota is quick to point out, those numbers make the C the, "highest rated city fuel economy of any vehicle without a plug."

As you might have surmised, there will be four trim levels for the Prius C and, unsurprisingly, some of the best features are only available on the upper ends. The Four, for example, is the only version that has fog lights and that can be optioned with 16-inch, eight-spoke alloy wheels (all others make due with 15-inchers). Also, neither the One, Two or Three can be equipped with an important cold-weather feature: heated front seats. At least things like automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone controls and remote keyless entry all come standard. The Prius C goes on sale in March. Full details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K*

Toyota prices 2012 Prius C under $19K* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>priusprius cprius c msrpprius msrpprius pricetoyota priusWed, 08 Feb 2012 14:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167308/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/toyota-prices-2012-prius-c-under-19k/20167308/article-detail.xml 20167308 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-prius-c-one-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-prius-c-one-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Prius C brings hybrid economy to the masses for under $19,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/toyota-prius-c-detroit-auto-show-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/toyota-prius-c-detroit-auto-show-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/toyota-prius-c-detroit-auto-show-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



C is for Cookie. At least, that's what the baking industry lobbyist known as Cookie Monster would have us believe. At Toyota they have another idea, where C is not for Cookie, it's not for Car and it's not for Compact. In the latest addition to the Prius family, C is for City.

What you're looking at is a new, smaller hybrid from Toyota, which is eagerly growing the Prius range from one four-door to include the Prius V (for Versatility), the Prius plug-in hybrid and this, the Prius C. It's both smaller and more affordable than the existing Prius range, while delivering superlative fuel economy figures. In fact, with a 50-mpg combined rating, the Prius C claims the best economy of any car this side of a plug-in EV.

Motivation is provided by a 1.5-liter four that, together with the electric motor, delivers up to 99 horsepower at peak (compared to the Prius liftback's 134hp). It's also more nimble than its bigger brother, and more affordable: when the Prius C reaches showrooms in the spring, it will wear a sticker price under $19,000. In the meantime, you can check out our gallery of high-resolution images from the show floor above, the stock images below and jump into the press release for more details.

Continue reading Toyota Prius C brings hybrid economy to the masses for under $19,000

Toyota Prius C brings hybrid economy to the masses for under $19,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showdetroitdetroit auto shownaiasnorth american international auto showpriusprius ctoyotatoyota priustoyota prius cTue, 10 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145095/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/toyota-prius-c-detroit-auto-show-2012/20145095/article-detail.xml 20145095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/prius-c-1-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/prius-c-1-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota teases NS4 plug-in hybrid concept again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/toyota-teases-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/toyota-teases-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/toyota-teases-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota NS4 Plug-In Hybrid Concep teaser screen capture

Toyota has released a quick teaser video for the company's NS4 Plug-In Hybrid Concept ahead of the vehicle's debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Though less than a minute in length, the clip gives us a clear look at the vehicle's badges as well as quick line-drawing outline. Toyota has released few details about the NS4 beyond saying the vehicle will be an "advanced plug-in hybrid." Whether that means the vehicle will boast new battery, engine or motor technology remains to be seen. Odds are the NS4 will be used to display new design language for the entire Toyota hybrid fleet.

The NS4 Plug-In Hybrid Concept will debut next week, along with the company's Prius C; a Yaris-sized hybrid with better fuel economy figures than the current Prius. While the model has received an unveil at the Tokyo Motor Show, we've yet to see the vehicle on American soil. Hit the jump to check out the NS4 Concept teaser video for yourself.

Continue reading Toyota teases NS4 plug-in hybrid concept again

Toyota teases NS4 plug-in hybrid concept again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showns4 conceptpriusprius ctoyotatoyota ns4 concepttoyota prius cWed, 04 Jan 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20140258/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/toyota-teases-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-again/20140258/article-detail.xml 20140258 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-ns4-concept-teaser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/toyota-ns4-concept-teaser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota confirms NS4 plug-in hybrid concept and production Prius C for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/toyota-confirms-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-and-production-prius/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/toyota-confirms-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-and-production-prius/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/toyota-confirms-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-and-production-prius/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota NS4 Concept teaser

Toyota is bringing a new concept to the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. The company calls its NS4 showcar an "advanced" plug-in hybrid, though it hasn't shared any more information beyond the vehicle's name. While we can't say for certain, odds are the concept will give us a glimpse of what the company has planned for future hybrid design instead of boasting any tangible next-generation technology. As you may recall, Toyota and BMW recently partnered up to create a new lithium-ion battery pack, so it may be some time before we see the tech debut, even in a concept vehicle.

Toyota has also made it clear the company will bring along the Prius C, which will make its North American debut at the Detroit show (see gallery below). The Prius C rides on a platform about the same size as the Yaris, but comes packing a hybrid drivetrain. Word has it the vehicle will come with Prius-besting EPA fuel economy figures, too. Hit the jump for the brief press release, and stay tuned for more information as we get closer to the Detroit show.

Continue reading Toyota confirms NS4 plug-in hybrid concept and production Prius C for Detroit

Toyota confirms NS4 plug-in hybrid concept and production Prius C for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showns4ns4 conceptpriusprius ctoyota ns4toyota ns4 concepttoyota prius cTue, 20 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131890/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/toyota-confirms-ns4-plug-in-hybrid-concept-and-production-prius/20131890/article-detail.xml 20131890 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-ns4-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/toyota-ns4-concept-628.jpg -1 2