The Toyota Yaris hatchback city car scores high for functionality but low for fun. This is the general opinion of the car among supermini enthusiasts. Compared to its competitors, the Yaris is highly functional and the first to be available in a flexible three-engine variant: diesel, petrol and hybrid. The Yaris also scores high in practicality, efficiency and technology. The model has certainly come a long way; it is now on its third generation of production and still enjoying healthy sales worldwide. But within the supermini segment, Toyota still has more to prove to the British market.

Pros

Yaris buyers will be happy to know that the model is easy to navigate around town. This is due to a responsive steering. Security and reliability is also high with the Yaris: the standard trim levels come with seven airbags, stability control, deadlines and other feats.

Those who are planning to buy the Hybrid will find a piece of good news: the Yaris is one of the most affordable Hybrids in the market. Although the Hybrid is more expensive than the other models, long-term running costs and CO2 emissions are kept low. The diesel and petrol variants do not disappoint, too. The 1.33 petrol can pack 52.3mpg with 123g/km. The 1.4 diesel is a long way better with 72.4mpg with 104g/km emissions.

The Yaris is generous when it comes to interior room and boot, making it one of the most comfortable in terms of head room and legroom. Passengers on the rear seats will also find plenty of room for comfort thanks to thin seats and a substantial legroom. Cabin space is comfortable for both driver and passenger, with the driver benefitting from a high seating. The boot can be augmented by way of a split-folding rear seat.

Cons

How the Yaris performs is definitely up to the engine. The 1-litre petrol is disappointing and slow. The 1.33 petrol is more flexible, but to make the most out of the Yaris, the 1.4 diesel and the Hybrid’s 1.5 petrol engines are livelier and perform well. Engine noise doesn’t at all help in this choice. Vibrations can be felt through the pedals. Rough roads also mean a bumpy ride for the passengers of this model.

The interior of the Yaris may be too drab for the taste of most supermini enthusiasts. While Toyota has boosted the interior components with a 6.1” multimedia display, the dash remains unappealing with its scratchy plastic surface. Centre console is also moved behind the steering wheel, which may mean that car owners used to the former may have to adjust to the Yaris’ interior layout. Apart from Toyota’s badge, the Yaris suffers from a rather neutral exterior.

When Toyota first introduced Yaris to the European market, people were more than enthusiastic to welcome this supermini into British roads. Since then, Yaris has slowly been relegated into the background versus more competitive and highly interactive vehicles in the segment. While buyers may be drawn to the Yaris’ charm, its limitations may just persuade them to look elsewhere.

The Toyota Yaris, or Echo in some markets, is a subcompact car produced in 1999. The first generation Yaris came in hatchback, coupe, and sedan versions, which were based on the Toyota Vitz and Platz platforms. The Yaris line exemplifies a frugal driving experience. It is the most popular Toyota car in Europe to date, with over a million units sold.

A second generation Yaris based on the Vitz and Belta platforms were produced starting 2005. This generation came in 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan variants, and was exclusively marketed as Yaris worldwide. The 2009 model was the first in the line to record outstanding marks in fuel economy and reliability.

A third generation hatchback is currently in production beginning 2010. This 2010 model featured a sporty mini with stylish interior and better stability, improving the Yaris’ reputation in its segment and making it a choice economy car. Against contemporaries such as the Chevrolet Aveo and Honda Fit, the Yaris comes out as the most intelligent choice.

The latest generation features a redesigned hatchback, with a longer body and an improved capacity. This includes a hybrid version first introduced in the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The Yaris Hybrid features the company’s Hybrid Synergy Drive.