2009 Toyota Yaris vs. Its Competition

Martin Padgett Editorial Director

The Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio are the most direct competitors to the 2009 Toyota Yaris.

Both models come as a sedan, but the Accent is available as a three-door hatchback model and the Rio as a five-door hatchback (Rio5).

Both feel a little more solid on the road than the Yaris, but their fuel economy isn't as good.

The Kia Rio5 is a bit more fun to drive than any of these other low-budget vehicles.

Also at the bottom of the price scale is the Chevrolet Aveo5, a small, five-door hatchback made by GM Daewoo.

Even with a recent redesign, the Aveo doesn't feel competitive with the Hyundai, Kia, or Toyota; its interior is slightly more spacious and comfortable, but its performance is sluggish in comparison.

The most appealing vehicle in this crowd is the Honda Fit; although it's quite a bit more expensive, the Fit is safer, more expansive inside—thanks to the wonderful Magic Seat design—and more fun to drive.

A redesign for 2009 has made the Fit even better, and untouchable in this category.