2018 Toyota Yaris Liftback

Pros: Penny-pinching prices; great close-quarters maneuverability; decent selection of available features

Cons: Weak acceleration; high noise levels; not as fun to drive as most subcompact-class rivals

CG Says: For 2018, the Toyota Yaris becomes the Yaris Liftback to differentiate it from the Yaris iA sedan—which is based on different platform (see separate report). The 2018 Yaris Liftback has revised front and rear styling and gains some audio and convenience features. The Yaris Liftback is a subcompact car that is available in 2-door and 4-door hatchback bodystyles. The sole engine is a 106-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Available features include pre-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. On its own, the Yaris Liftback is a pleasant subcompact that will more than meet the needs of shoppers in this class. It’s decently roomy and pretty reasonably priced. Unfortunately, when you put the 2018 Toyota Yaris Liftback up against its contemporaries, it falls a bit flat. Rival subcompacts best it in a variety of areas, from passenger and cargo flexibility to noise suppression and overall refinement. Don’t discount this Toyota entirely, but be sure to test drive the competition first.