Best 2013 cars under $20,000: hybrid 2013 Toyota Prius C

The 2013 Toyota Prius C is a best buy with a starting price of $18,950 and a fuel-sipping overall fuel economy rating of 50 MPG, the highest of any vehicle without a plug.

This is the smaller version of the best selling hybrid on the planet, an ideal choice for a first car for a new graduate, second car for a family to use for commuting, or for anybody living in a city where fuel economy and parking space are of premium importance.  The Prius C is a five-door hatchback, with several built-in safety and technology features you expect from Toyota, but not at this price. Even fully loaded with a moonroof and pushbutton liftgate, the baby Prius still is under $24,000.

The Prius C offers –

• 53 mpg in the city, and 46 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 50 mpg
• A premium hybrid experience , including a standard 3.5-inch full color TFT multi-information display, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, USB port with iPod connectivity, and an available play audio system with navigation and Toyota’s Entune.
• All four Prius C trim models are equipped with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.5-liter DOHC, 16-valve engine with VVT-i, a 60 hp permanent magnet AC synchronous motor, and a 144 volt nickel-metal hydride battery which generates 25.9 hp of electric propulsion, for a total hybrid system net output of 99 horsepower.
• Safety systems include nine standard airbags, driver and front passenger advanced whiplash-injury-lessening seats, stability and traction controls, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, and smart stop technology.

Comfort features include automatic climate control, tilt-telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, multi-information display and Bluetooth hands free phone controls; and remote keyless entry with illuminated entry.

See also:

Best new cars under $20,000: 2014 Kia Forte sedan

Best 2013 cars under $20,000: 2013 Dodge Dart

See all ecoXplorer best cars under $20,000