| Subcompact car; Built in Japan |
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| Good condition price range: $7,000 – $16,000* |
2007 Toyota Yaris
2007 Toyota Yaris
2007 Toyota Yaris
2007 Toyota Yaris
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| Cons: |
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Shop elsewhere if you want lively high-speed acceleration. On the plus side, Yaris is a relatively refined subcompact with a driving position high enough, and a structure substantial enough, so you won’t feel dwarfed by surrounding traffic. Base new-car prices have been tempting, but optional amenities could cause sticker prices to climb to the level of larger, more powerful cars that came with safety and convenience features that cost extra on the Yaris. Toyota’s reputation for strong resale values extends to its smallest car, which means a Yaris won’t be all that cheap on the used-car market.
Overview
This new front-wheel-drive subcompact replaced the discontinued Echo as Toyota’s smallest car, serving as the automaker’s least expensive model. Yaris came as a two-door hatchback, and as a four-door sedan that was 19 inches longer overall. Built on a wheelbase 3.5 inches shorter than the sedan’s, the hatchback stood more than 3 inches taller.
The sole engine for both body styles was a 106-horsepower four-cylinder that teamed with a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic. The automatic incorporated uphill and downhill “shift logic,” intended to reduce gear “hunting” when driving on hilly terrain.
Both body styles came in base trim. Sedans also were available as uplevel S models. Antilock braking was optional. So was a package that included front side airbags and curtain side airbags. A split-folding rear seat was standard on S models, and available on the base sedan. Hatchbacks were available with a split-folding rear seat that reclined and slid fore and aft. Other options included remote entry and power windows, locks, and mirrors. Subcompact rivals included the Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, and Suzuki SX4.
Yearly Updates
| 2008 Yaris A new sport-themed hatchback joined the original base version for 2008. Dubbed the S Liftback, the new model featured front/rear under-bumper spoilers, an amber-lit tachometer, and a rear defroster/wiper. |
| 2009 Yaris Yaris gained a 4-door hatchback body style for 2009. |
| 2010 Yaris The 2010 Toyota Yaris lineup gained some new safety features. Traction control and an antiskid system, which were previously unavailable, became standard. The S trim was discontinued, but most of its equipment was available as part of an optional Sport Package. |
| 2011 Yaris The 2011 Toyota Yaris is largely unchanged. |
