The Yaris is Toyota UK's best selling car, taking over the mantle from the Corolla, despite being a smaller car. The Mk2 Toyota Yaris is a lot bigger than the original, and feels spacious. It is on offer with a selection of 1.0 litre and 1,3 litre petrol engines and a 1.4 litre diesel, which gives a claimed 69 mpg. The petrol engines are smooth revving but rather vocal when pressed hard.
Once driving the car, you notice the handling as predictable without giving too much feedback to the driver, grip isn't high from the small alloys, and it doesn't handle as well as some rivals such as the Ford Fiesta, but it is comfortable over most road surfaces.
The strong point of the Yaris is the solid reputation that Toyota has for reliability, combined with the high levels of dealer service - Toyota always scores top on the JD power dealer surveys, and all backed by a 5 yr 100,000 mile warranty which allays any worries you may have. This alongside a 5 star crash protection result from the Euro NCAP safety dept and strong residual values makes the Yaris a good all round ownership proposition and an even better used buy.
Inside the cabin, the Yaris has a stylish dashboard, with all the instruments being centrally mounted and large clear displays. There is plenty of space in the front, and rear legroom is excellent if you choose to slide the seats backwards, which does eat into boot space though. The entry level T2 spec is basic, but no more so than rivals, but we would recommend upgrading to the TR spec which gives Air-Con, alloy wheels and an adjustable height drivers seat.
Overall the Yaris is a competent car that trails the class leaders in refinement and handling, but will be one of the most solid and reliable little cars you can buy, backed by good dealer service, making sense as either a new or used purchase.
