- Watch Toyota Yaris Review
- What is the engine like?
- Toyota Yaris driving experience
- What is the interior like?
- How practical and comfortable is the Toyota Yaris?
- What does each trim provide?
- How safe is the Toyota Yaris?
- Is the Toyota Yaris expensive to maintain?
- Competing in a crowded market
- Competitive pricing and rivals
- Toyota Yaris Review Summary: Should you buy, finance, or lease one?
In this Toyota Yaris review, we see Toyota’s latest iteration of the fourth-generation Yaris brings digital advancements and enhanced safety, continuing its legacy with the renowned 1.5-litre self-charging hybrid engine. This revamped model now boasts an impressive 129 brake horsepower, making it a compelling choice in the supermini segment.
Since its debut in 1999, the Toyota Yaris has been a staple in the automotive world. Garnering the Car of the Year title in 2000, it has sold over 9 million units across its first three generations.
Known under various names globally, from the Plats to the Mazda 2, the Yaris has made a name for itself primarily through its pioneering role in small car electrification.
Interested in seeing more of the Toyota Yaris? Watch our comprehensive Toyota Yaris review now
What is the engine like?
The standout feature of the Yaris has always been its hybrid engine. Toyota’s fourth-generation model, launched in 2020, was exclusively hybrid.
This decision underscored Toyota’s commitment to non-compromise electrification, avoiding mild hybrid systems and full plug-in hybrids that could price it out of reach for many consumers.
The current Yaris offers two versions of its hybrid powertrain: the familiar 114 brake horsepower and a new, more potent 129 brake horsepower variant.
This power boost transforms the driving experience, making mid-range acceleration brisker and more responsive.
Toyota Yaris driving experience
Driving the new Yaris is a revelation compared to its predecessors. The switch from a four to a three-cylinder engine, paired with a reworked suspension and a lighter, stiffer chassis, makes for a more engaging drive.
The car’s impressive frugality remains a hallmark, enhanced by a smaller, more efficient lithium-ion battery capable of propelling the car in electric mode up to 80% of the time in urban settings.
Notably, the CVT transmission, often criticised for its rubber-band-like response, has seen significant improvements. The new battery plays a crucial role in this, providing a smoother and more dynamic drive.
What is the interior like?
Stepping inside, the Yaris presents a digitalised and contemporary cabin. The new model replaces analogue dials with a 7-inch or 12.3-inch digital instrument screen, depending on the trim.
The centrepiece is the 10.5-inch Toyota Smart Connect+ touchscreen, offering faster software performance and cloud-based navigation for real-time updates.
Despite the technological advancements, some elements remain modest.
While materials have seen an upgrade, the overall interior feel still doesn’t quite match the premium levels of competitors like the Volkswagen Polo.
However, the design improvements and additional features provide a more enjoyable and intuitive driving experience.
How practical and comfortable is the Toyota Yaris?
The Yaris continues to offer practical solutions for urban commuting. With a tight 5.5-metre turning circle and excellent visibility, it excels in city driving.
However, rear-seat space remains limited, primarily due to the battery placement beneath the rear seats.
This makes it less accommodating for taller passengers, though it still provides reasonable comfort for shorter journeys.
What does each trim provide?
Icon Trim
The Yaris range begins with the Icon trim, which includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, automatic air conditioning, and a multi-function steering wheel.
Media connectivity is managed by the Toyota Touch 3 screen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features are comprehensive, with adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, and a reversing camera.
Design Trim
The Design trim, expected to be chosen by 48% of buyers, adds full LED headlights, rear privacy glass, and a digital combi meter display.
This trim level enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic and functional appeal, making it a popular choice.
Excel Trim
The top-of-the-line Excel trim introduces advanced tech like a 12-inch digital display, a 10.5-inch infotainment screen with cloud-based navigation, and dual-zone air conditioning.
Luxuries like sport seats, a wireless phone charger, and an upgraded sound system are also included.
GR Sport Variant
For those seeking a sportier ride, the GR Sport variant offers a 129bhp engine, firmer suspension, and 18-inch wheels.
It also features unique interior touches like sport seats with ultra-suede upholstery and a leather-stitched steering wheel.
How safe is the Toyota Yaris?
Toyota has engineered the Yaris to be one of the safest small cars.
The increased body rigidity, advanced safety features, and the inclusion of SRS centre airbags enhance occupant protection.
The Toyota Safety Sense package includes features like pre-collision detection, lane tracing assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems work together to provide a reassuringly safe driving experience.
Is the Toyota Yaris expensive to maintain?
Toyota has a strong reputation for reliability and low running costs.
The Yaris benefits from fewer mechanical components like a traditional starter motor or alternator, reducing maintenance needs.
The brand’s Relax warranty offers coverage for up to 10 years with regular servicing, providing peace of mind to owners.
Competing in a Crowded Market
The supermini segment is fiercely competitive, with alternatives like the Honda Jazz, Renault Clio, and Peugeot 208.
However, Toyota’s extensive experience in hybrid technology, dating back to 1997, gives the Yaris a distinct edge.
The fourth-generation petrol-electric system and the shared Mazda 2 hybrid architecture contribute to a sophisticated driving experience.
The Yaris’s hybrid system, unlike mild hybrids, allows for genuine electric-only travel, making it a more authentic hybrid.
This characteristic, combined with improved handling and agility, positions the Yaris as a sensible and satisfying choice for everyday driving.
Competitive Pricing and Rivals
The Yaris enters a competitive market where conventionally powered superminis, like the Suzuki Swift and Hyundai i20, start around £19,000 to £20,000.
However, the Yaris stands out by offering a full hybrid engine without a significant price hike.
At the time of testing, Chinese manufacturer MG had introduced the MG3 Hybrid Plus, a rival priced similarly but with a more powerful engine.
The Renault Clio E-Tech, Vauxhall Corsa Hybrid, and Peugeot 208 Hybrid are other notable competitors, with the Honda Jazz being a pricier option.
Toyota Yaris review summary: Should you buy, lease, or finance one?
As we can see in this review, the fourth-generation Toyota Yaris is a significant player in the supermini market.
With its hybrid efficiency, extensive standard equipment, and advanced safety features, it offers a compelling package for those seeking a reliable and economical small car.
The Yaris stands out not just for its efficiency but also for the thoughtful engineering that enhances its performance and safety.
Toyota’s refreshed Yaris emerges as a frontrunner in the supermini market. Its blend of improved hybrid performance, digital enhancements, and safety features makes it a compelling option.
If you value long-term ownership and want a reliable, fuel-efficient car with a solid warranty, buying a Toyota Yaris is an excellent choice.
Toyota’s reputation for durability means that you can expect the Yaris to serve you well for many years, and the hybrid technology will keep running costs low. Additionally, the strong resale value of Toyota vehicles ensures that your investment will retain its worth over time.
Leasing a Toyota Yaris could be ideal if you prefer driving a new car every few years without the commitment of ownership.
Leasing allows you to enjoy the latest features and technology with lower monthly payments compared to buying. The Yaris’s low emissions and fuel efficiency make it a cost-effective option for lease terms, and the comprehensive warranty coverage throughout the lease period provides peace of mind.
Financing a Yaris combines the benefits of ownership with the flexibility of manageable monthly payments.
This option is suitable if you plan to keep the car for an extended period but prefer spreading the cost over several years. Financing offers the advantage of eventually owning the car outright, and Toyota’s attractive financing rates and deals can make this option more affordable.
The Toyota Yaris is an excellent choice for various buyers, from those seeking long-term ownership to those preferring short-term commitments through leasing or financing.
Its hybrid efficiency, advanced safety features, and impressive standard equipment make it a standout in the supermini segment. Whether you decide to buy, lease, or finance, the Yaris promises a reliable, economical, and enjoyable driving experience.
