I have a 2014 CT and I can
I have a 2014 CT and I can say that even though the drive train is the same it is far from a Prius. I test drove a Prius before buying the CT and ergonomically they are night and day difference in terms of driving comfort. The CT's interior is layed out perfectly and the seats are more comfortable. The dash and center console is far more elegant and practical. The CT does have a very firm ride but weighs more which is why I think it is smoother than the Prius. Once I swapped the stock Michelin tires for Kumho's it rides way better. My decision to buy the CT is not me being a badge whore, I wanted a very nice hatchback with great gas mileage because I drive 70+ miles a day. I get roughly 55mpg on average which is well over the rating of 40mpg. I also chose the CT for reliability...it's a Toyota...I own 3 Toyotas and never have problems. Since the performance factor is out the window I still chose to modify the appearance as I do with all of my cars because I plan to have them for a long time. Mine is lowered, tinted and has a body kit. I get so many compliments on the car because it looks damn good and you don't see many on the road. Most people will agree that the Prius and CT are the same but they're the same people that will buy a higher trim package on a car for more bells and whistles with no performance increase. I bought mine smart...certified pre-owned with very, very low miles. I paid the same as you would for a Madza 3 hatchback, Focus hatchback or Civic hatchback. The CT is far more reliable than those cars and looks WAY better especially after the appearance mods I made.