Review
Introduction
The front-drive Yaris has been around for nine years in international markets, but it is relatively new to the U.S., having arrived for 2007 as a replacement for the late and unlamented Echo. Offered in three-door-hatchback and four-door-sedan body styles, it’s the smallest Toyota sold in this country, as well as the least expensive and second in fuel thriftiness behind the Prius hybrid. EPA ratings for the Yaris are 29 mpg city and 36 mpg highway with the standard five-speed manual transmission and 29/35 with the optional four-speed automatic.
Our responses to the Yaris are mixed, placing the Yaris fourth in a comparison test of seven new subcompacts. Nevertheless, this is a popular and affordable car in an increasingly popular class, and it’s inexpensive to own and operate and is bolstered by Toyota’s solid reputation and strong service organization.
Verdict
We appreciate the function of its manual transmission, and the Yaris’s stopping distances are excellent; but the rear seat is cramped, even by subcompact standards, stability at freeway speeds leaves something to be desired, there’s excessive body roll in ordinary cornering maneuvers, and the center-dash gauge cluster is a turn-off. A good—but not great—replacement for the Toyota Echo.
Click here to read our full review of the Toyota Yaris.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Toyota Yaris.
What’s New for 2008
All models get tire-pressure monitors and a parking-brake reminder light. The Sport trim level is offered for 2008 on the three-door hatchback and adds front and rear spoilers, a tachometer, amber gauges, upgraded seat fabric, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.
