2015 Toyota Yaris SE Hatchback: Small, Adorable And Affordable

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $18,445 (base price $15,670)

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; traction control; electronic brake distribution; LED headlights; and a vehicle stability control system

Standard Equipment (base model): 16-inch tire; cloth seats; manually adjustable front seats; air condition; cruise control; a leather trimmed steering wheel; a remote control; cargo area with tonneau cover; rear split seats; and a rear spoiler

Suspension System: MacPherson Strut with Toyota’s version of a sport-tuned suspension in a subcompact

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: AM/FM/CD/HD

Bluetooth Connectivity: standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 mile warranty

Powertrain Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 mile warranty

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder/106-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 30-city/36-hwy

What’s New: The pint sized Yaris wears an expressive new front end just like the Camry. And like the Camry, the subcompact driveability is improved due to a re-tuned suspension system and a more structurally sound body. 

Furthermore, the snug subcompact is also outfitted with more premium seats and a new dashboard design, while offering less hard plastic and more soft touch points.

Pros: The Yaris is available in a variety trim levels. There is a stripped-down base model that starts out around $16,300. Thankfully we had the opportunity to review one of the well-equipped, high-end subcompacts (if we can call it that). The Yaris, in our opinion, is the right size for those seeking a fuel-efficient, reliable, easy-to-maneuver and spirited compact, offering roomy front seats. 

And although the Yaris barely inks out 100 horses from its tiny engine, it seemed to be quite adequate, while tooling around town and cruising on the expressway. Unlike other subcompacts or the brand’s soon to be defunct and extremely tiny Scion iQ, we felt extremely safe in this vehicle.

Moreover, this is the perfect vehicle for those who aren’t seeking such driver aids as electronic blind spot mirrors, a radar-activated cruise control system, an automatic braking system, an automatic rearview mirror, a push-button keyless ignition system or a back up camera. These advanced safety features aren’t available on the Yaris.

Yes, the Yaris is just basic transportation, with the right features for first time buyers, college students, young adults or city dwellers. Furthermore, seeing that the Yaris lacks many of the high-tech advanced safety driving aids a number of today’s buyers yearn for, this reduces the chance of items breaking on the Yaris.

Cons: The Yaris we reviewed lacked a rear front center armrest and satellite radio. And being that this is a subcompact, it’s a tight fit for rear occupants. The rear seats are better suited for the little ones.
 

The 2014 Yaris

Verdict:  The Yaris proves that great things do still come in a small package. With the spunky, bold grille, the Yaris adds a flair that was lacking from last year’s model. Toyota has managed to find the perfect balance between fuel-efficiency, reliability, features and affordability in the 2015 Yaris without making it feel cheap.


Competition: Chevy Sonic; Ford Fiesta; Hyundai Accent; Nissan Versa Note and Mazda2