Technical

There is one compact engine for the compact car. It is a 1.5L 4-cylinder that puts out 106 hp and 103 lb/ft of torque. Transmission selections are between a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Brakes consist of front discs and rear drums. Steering is electric power assisted. Suspension is independent up front and semi-independent in the rear.

Comparison

I have been asked by more than one party to compare the Yaris to the smart fortwo. Here is how I see it: Both are in a similar price range but the smart has a higher base price. The Yaris has a few other advantages: it will sit 4 adults whereas the smart is only a 2-seater. This also means that there is more room for larger items in the Yaris. The smart is better on gas, is packed with more technology and will be safer in an accident. The other issue is long-term reliability. The Yaris will probably have lower ownership costs, require less maintenance and conceivably have a stronger resale value. I would probably go for the Yaris.

On the road

The diminutive 1.5L is very much alive and makes the Yaris quick on its toes. The transmission's shifter works through the cogs with ease and the clutch pedal is very light. The brake pedal is firm although braking prowess is fair at best. Steering is light in urban circumstances. It does weigh-up nicely as speed increases.

The ride is actually quite good for a compact car. Whether the Yaris was loaded with four adults or carrying only myself, the suspension maintained composure and control. As the car is quite tall and has a high center of gravity, body-roll is present except it is not an issue to be concerned with.

The exterior dimensions of the car ensure its ability to squeeze through any intersection. Its very narrow turning radius makes it a great urban commuter. Its tall stature and very light weight (1,050 kg /2,315 lbs) make it sensitive to crosswinds. It is therefore important to always keep both hands on the steering wheel.

Safety

The Yaris has standard dual front air bags, available ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have yet to crash test the Toyota. The Yaris is one the few sub-compact cars to receive a 5-star rating from the Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Program).

Conclusion

The new Yaris is a great little car. It is perhaps the best in a category that includes the all-new Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio. Overall, Toyota is known for their reliability and the Yaris should not disappoint. With its very frugal thirst for fuel and "I am glad to be alive" aura, the Yaris should pick up where the Echo H/B left off and soar to new heights.

Good stuff:
Fuel economy
Euro looks
Zippy drive

Not so good stuff:
Small trunk

Competitors:
Kia Rio
Hyundai Accent
Chevrolet Aveo / Suzuki Swift / Pontiac Wave
smart fortwo