2010 Toyota Yaris - Page 1 Review

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Shopping for a 2010 Toyota Yaris? MSRP: $12,605 - $14,165

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The Yaris replaced the Echo in Toyota's lineup three years ago and has done much better in general—thanks to a lineup that includes both hatchbacks and sedans. For 2009, Toyota added a five-door Liftback hatchback to the lineup, which already included a four-door sedan and three-door Liftback.

The Yaris still manages to look quite stylish compared to most other models in its class—especially as a hatchback. The two body styles of this model clearly cater to two different classes. While the sedan is slightly more conservative in its trims and interior treatment, the three- and five-door Liftback models are more flamboyant, with a more aerodynamic look, European design influences, and a rear roof spoiler atop the hatch. Inside, the Yaris has a very unconventional look, with a center-mounted gauge cluster and Liftback models offering large storage areas behind a slim center stack of controls. The interior is a contrast of elements good and bad, desirable and tacky, as Toyota obviously is trying to make a fashionable cabin while watching its price very carefully.

A 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers the Yaris, and buyers can choose either from a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The power output is low, but it's adequate for a small, light (about 2,300 pounds) car of this type. The engine works quite well with either transmission, though it's a bit louder with the automatic. Keep the revs down and be gentle on the throttle and you won’t hear the engine much at all. Fuel economy is very good, at 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway with the manual, and TheCarConnection.com's editors have seen as high as 41 mpg in gentle driving.