2009 Toyota Yaris

March 2009. Reviewers say the 2009 Toyota Yaris feels solid and rides smoothly for such a small car. Seat comfort gets mixed reviews, with some critics unhappy with the flat, unsupportive cushion and high, perch-like driving position. Almost all reviewers dislike the gauge cluster mounted in the center of the Yaris' dashboard instead of in front of the driver. They say it diverts attention too far from the road ahead while driving. While the petite dimensions of the Toyota Yaris help give it remarkable maneuverability, critics say the small car's steering feel is too numb (a recurring Toyota complaint -- the Corolla gets similar criticism) and it handles too softly. They also say acceleration is acceptable with the manual gearbox, but is too sluggish on Toyota Yaris models equipped with the optional automatic transmission. Reliability history for the Toyota Yaris is excellent, but crash-test scores are below average. For buyers seeking simple transportation, reviewers say the Toyota Yaris fits the bill, with six airbags and standard antilock brakes. While its base price is reasonable, many reviews say the Toyota Yaris seems too much like a basic economy car, while some competitors offer more standard equipment and a more engaging driving experience.

The Toyota Yaris subcompact comes in three body styles: a three-door hatchback, four-door sedan and new five-door hatchback to compete with the popular Honda Fit (*est. $14,750 to $16,260). Reviewers give the Honda better ratings and say it's both roomier and more enjoyable to drive. The Toyota Yaris gets praise for its outstanding fuel-economy ratings of 29 mpg city and 35-36 mpg highway, and test vehicles average at least 30 mpg in real-life mixed driving. The sole powerplant in the Toyota Yaris is a 106-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder with five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic. The new five-door is automatic-only. Other recommended alternatives include the larger 2009 Nissan Versa (*est. $9,990 to $16,330) and 2009 Hyundai Accent (*est. $9,970 to $15,070), each with lower prices. For a more upscale look and feel, critics say to look at Toyota's more expensive 2009 Scion xD (*est. $14,650) five-door hatchback, based on the Toyota Yaris platform, but with a more powerful engine.

Edmunds.com gives a well-written, comprehensive descriptive review of the Toyota Yaris. ConsumerGuide.com rates the Toyota Yaris compared to rivals and discusses its pros and cons. Consumer Reports provides valuable reliability information along with a test-drive review. TheCarConnection.com and CarGurus.com each gives a good summary review with useful comments. Informative road-test evaluations can be found at AutomoBlog and LeftLaneNews.com. The Toyota Yaris is one of Kelley Blue Book's Recommended models and also one of its Best Resale Value award recipients.