2017 Toyota Prius C release date, specs, price news: hybrid hatchback gains sportier appearance, standard driver-assist technologies

For the new model year, Toyota has updated its smallest and most affordable hybrid, the Prius C, with the latest driver-assist technologies as well as several cosmetic tweaks to give the gasoline-electric subcompact hatchback a sportier appearance.

The Toyota Safety Sense C system, which was previously an option for two 2016 Prius C models, is now a standard feature for all models of the 2017 Prius C. The suite of driver-assist technologies includes the Pre-collision System which uses the vehicle's camera and laser beam to detect surrounding vehicles and produces audio and visual alerts to notify the driver if a collision is imminent. If the driver is unable to take the necessary precautions, the vehicle will automatically apply the brakes and reduce the car's speed.

Also included is Lane Departure Alert that uses the camera to detect white and yellow lane markings to position the car on the road. It issues alerts whenever the driver starts to deviate from its lane. Furthermore, Automatic High Beam also uses the camera to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of vehicles ahead and switches between high and low beams as appropriate.

The 2017 Prius C also comes standard with Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist and Smart Stop technology.

Design-wise, the new hybrid hatchback gains a sportier look with its redesigned front fascia, rear bumper, side rocker panels and blacked-out rear spoiler. For 2017, the Prius C will now be equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, single LED projector low- and high-beam headlights and LED taillights and brake lights.

The vehicle's compact body structure allows it to be highly maneuverable during urban driving, and can easily fit into tight parking spaces. Nevertheless, the optimal arrangement of its components makes the cabin spacious enough for multiple passengers and several packages. It also allows the suspension to provide a smoother driving experience and more agile handling.

The Prius C is powered by a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers 73 horsepower and 82 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system ups performance to 99 horsepower. This translates to a fuel efficiency rating of 48 miles per gallon (mpg) during city driving, 43 mpg during highway driving and 46 mpg during combined driving.

The 2017 Prius C comes in four grades: Prius C One, Prius C Two, Prius C Three and Prius C Four. It is now available to purchase with a starting price of $20,150.