Toyota Yaris review: Big city features in a small car package!
In Australia, the Toyota Yaris is a subcompact hatchback that only switched to a hybrid engine in 2024. This combination offers both better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Alongside the discontinuation of the petrol Toyota Yaris, the 2024 Yaris boasts increased power, a sportier look, and advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense. Its clever design maximises interior space; the Yaris is a strong contender for those seeking a small, fuel-efficient, and safe car for city driving.
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Compact size, perfect for city driving
- User-friendly and comfortable interior
Cons:
- Limited power
- Handling priorities comfort over sporty responsiveness
- Cramped rear seat space
The Yaris has been a familiar sight on Australian roads since 2005, taking the baton from the successful Echo. Though it might be the compact kid on the Toyota block, the Yaris packs a punch. Safety is a strong suit, and the innovative hybrid system means you can save on fuel and skip the charging station - it's all self-contained! But is the Yaris all practical, or does it offer a fun driving experience, too? Let's find out!
| Variants | Driveaway price | Fuel type | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport | $32,643 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
| Toyota Yaris SX | $36,254 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
| Toyota Yaris ZR | $38,933 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
Exteriors
Imagine a practical and sporty car condensed into a city-friendly size. That's the essence of the Toyota Yaris in Australia.
Styling elements
The Toyota Yaris in Australia is sleeker and more modern, ditching the cute factor. With a V-shaped hood leading your eyes to the Toyota logo, it exudes a sporty vibe. The standard grille is upgraded to dark chrome on higher trims, and the LED headlights shine brightly at night. The ZR trim includes a rear spoiler and black mirror caps that match the darkened grille for an extra touch of aggression. Overall, the Yaris offers a city-friendly package that combines functionality with a striking, contemporary design.
Colour options
The Yaris offers 12 vibrant single-tone colours. For the ZR model, you can be flashier and choose from 6 striking two-tone combinations.
The 12 colours you get include Super White, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl, Coral Rose, Cherry Blossom, Atomic Rush, Eclectic Blue, Bronx Bronze, Ebony, Lunar Blue, Scarlet and Electric Green.
The two-toned colour combinations include Coral Rose with Black Roof, Cherry Blossom with Black Roof, Atomic Rush with White Roof, Eclectic Blue with Black Roof, Bronx Bronze with Black Roof and Ebony with White Roof.
Wheel design
The Yaris Ascent Sport has 15-inch steel wheels featuring wheel caps for a classic look. Stepping up to the Yaris SX upgrades you to 15-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of style and refinement. For the ultimate in-wheel aesthetics, the Yaris ZR boasts 16-inch alloy wheels, enhancing both the appearance and performance of the vehicle.
Interiors
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia is designed with a focus on practicality and comfort, making it perfect for city driving.
Interior layout and space
The Toyota Yaris in Australia prioritises practicality and efficient use of space within its subcompact frame. The cabin layout is designed with the driver in mind, placing all controls within easy reach. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated throughout, including cup holders, device holders, and compartments for everyday essentials.
The Yaris provides ample space for both front and rear passengers. There are 38.2 inches of headroom, 41.9 inches of legroom, 53.2 inches of shoulder room, and 48.6 inches of hip room. In the second row, passengers get 36.8 inches of headroom, 34.4 inches of legroom, 50 inches of shoulder room, and 49.5 inches of hip room, ensuring comfort for all occupants.
Comfort and ergonomics
While the Yaris might not be the most luxurious car on the road, it prioritises comfort for city driving. The seats are designed for short and medium journeys, offering adequate support. However, we are sure taller passengers will find the rear seats slightly cramped for legroom. Nevertheless, the overall interior space is well-utilised for a subcompact car, making it comfortable for daily commutes or running errands around town.
Ergonomics plays a big role in the Yaris' interior design. The user-friendly layout ensures a smooth driving experience. Controls are intuitively placed, minimising the need to take your eyes off the road. This thoughtful design philosophy provides a comfortable and safe driving experience, especially when navigating tight city streets.
Boot
The Toyota Yaris might be a subcompact hatchback, but its boot space offers surprising practicality for its size. With the rear seats upright, you'll find a usable cargo area rated at 270 litres – ideal for everyday essentials like groceries, luggage for a weekend getaway, or even sports equipment like a gym bag or a folded bike.
Technology and infotainment
The Toyota Yaris in Australia doesn't overwhelm you with excessive technology, but it packs what you need for a connected and convenient city driving experience.
Infotainment
The Yaris features an upgraded 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system. This user-friendly interface effortlessly navigates through menus, accesses features, and controls various functions. Voice commands are also integrated, allowing you to manage calls, get directions, or switch playlists without taking your hands off the wheel, keeping your focus on the road.
Street smart connectivity
The 2024 Yaris is fully committed to seamless connectivity. No more struggling with cords - Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™️ are both seamlessly integrated wirelessly. This makes it easy to link your smartphone to the car's infotainment system, ensuring you stay connected to your digital life while driving.
Premium audio experience
The Yaris boasts a premium audio experience with six strategically placed speakers throughout the cabin. Whether listening to podcasts, audiobooks or jamming to your favourite tunes, these speakers ensure rich and clear sound quality, making every journey more enjoyable.
Head-Up Display (ZR Grade)
Upgrade to the Yaris ZR and experience the convenience of a Head-Up Display (HUD). This innovative feature projects vital information like speed, navigation, and safety alerts directly onto the windshield right in your sight. This minimises distractions by allowing you to keep your eyes focused on the road ahead.
Toyota connected services
Every new Yaris comes with Toyota Connected Services, offering complimentary access for the first year. These services enhance your driving experience, focusing on safety, security, convenience, and overall connectivity.
Performance and engine
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia ditches traditional gasoline engines and embraces a hybrid powertrain. This combination of an electric motor and a gasoline engine offers several advantages.
Engine specifications
The Toyota Yaris lineup offers three variants all equipped with a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine. The Yaris Ascent Sport and Yaris SX generate 118 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque each, while the Yaris ZR produces 89 horsepower with the same torque output. These variants cater to different needs, balancing performance and efficiency within the compact and reliable Yaris range.
| Variants | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 118 hp | 145Nm |
| Toyota Yaris SX | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 118 hp | 145Nm |
| Toyota Yaris ZR | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 89 hp | 145 Nm |
Transmission
Regardless of the variant you choose, all 2024 Toyota Yaris models in Australia come equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This automatic transmission system ensures smooth and seamless gear changes, optimising fuel efficiency and providing a comfortable driving experience.
Powertrain and acceleration
The hybrid powertrain in all Yaris variants prioritises fuel economy and eco-friendliness. While acceleration figures aren't readily available, the Yaris is designed for city driving, offering enough power to navigate city streets and handle everyday commutes with ease.
Handling
While the Toyota Yaris excels in city driving due to its compact size and manoeuvrability, it's important to be realistic about its handling capabilities. Don't expect a sporty, thrill-seeking experience. The suspension is likely tuned for comfort and stability over sharp handling. This means it might feel a little soft or boaty during aggressive cornering. However, the benefit is a smooth and comfortable ride for everyday commutes and navigating city streets.
Ultimately, the Yaris prioritises practicality and efficiency over sporty performance. If sharp handling is a major priority, you might want to consider exploring other Toyota models. But for navigating city streets and errands with confidence, the Yaris offers a well-balanced and manoeuvrable driving experience.
Fuel efficiency
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia boasts a standout feature: exceptional fuel efficiency. All three variants, Ascent Sport, SX, and ZR, achieve an impressive combined fuel consumption of 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km). This translates to significant cost savings at the pump and reduced environmental impact.
The secret lies in the Yaris' hybrid powertrain. The electric motor can propel the car for short distances or assist the gasoline engine, which is particularly beneficial in stop-and-go city traffic. Additionally, regenerative braking captures energy when you slow down or brake, converting it back into electricity for later use, further enhancing efficiency. Combining a smaller, efficient gasoline engine and electric motor assistance significantly reduces fuel consumption compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Choosing the Yaris means saving money on fuel and minimising your environmental footprint.
Safety features
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia prioritises safety for you and your passengers. It has a suite of advanced safety features to enhance your confidence on the road. These features may include Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive system that can include elements like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Lane Trace Assist (LTA) to keep you in your lane. Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alerts might also be available on higher trims, providing additional warnings when changing lanes or reversing. These driver-assistance features work together to prevent accidents and keep you informed of your surroundings, making the Yaris a well-equipped and safe choice for city driving.
Some of these safety features include:
- Airbags
- Collision warning
- Electronic stability control
- Rear parking camera
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Emergency steering assist
- Front cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Speed limiter
- Driver attention alert
The Toyota Yaris, introduced in Australia in August 2020, holds a 5-star ANCAP safety rating across all variants. The Toyota Yaris Cross has its own unique rating.
Ownership experience
The Toyota Yaris SE has garnered attention among enthusiasts for its reliability and versatility. Many users commend its enduring performance, as evidenced by its ability to withstand over 230,000 miles of daily driving before transitioning to a role as a specialised backroad and autocross vehicle. Reviewers appreciate its compact design and manual transmission, contributing to an engaging driving experience. However, some critiques have surfaced regarding its perceived lack of power, particularly on highways, and its firm suspension that can result in a somewhat noisy ride compared to larger cars. Overall, the Yaris SE has earned a reputation for durability and driving enjoyment, albeit with some trade-offs in comfort for its size and purpose.
Major strengths
- Excellent fuel efficiency, making it cost-effective for daily commuting.
- Compact size and tight turning radius, ideal for urban driving and parking.
- Well-designed interior with ergonomic controls and ample storage spaces.
- Toyota's reputation for reliability and longevity ensures peace of mind for owners.
Major drawbacks
- Limited cargo space compared to larger hatchbacks or SUVs.
- The engine can feel underpowered during acceleration, especially with a full load.
- Basic interior materials and features may feel less premium compared to higher-end models.
- Due to its compact design, road and engine noise can be more noticeable at higher speeds.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The Toyota Yaris hatchback's annual 15,000km service, previously capped at $195, now requires an additional $50 per visit under the updated Toyota Service Advantage program. Over the course of the five-year warranty period, this totals an extra $250 in maintenance costs. The warranty for the Toyota Yaris is 5 years, ensuring coverage for mechanical issues and providing peace of mind to owners regarding unforeseen expenses during this timeframe.
Verdict
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia impresses with its sleek design, hybrid efficiency, and robust safety features, earning it high marks as a city-friendly hatchback. Its enhanced power and modern styling cater to both practicality and aesthetics, while advanced technologies like wireless Apple CarPlay® and Toyota Safety Sense bolster its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider its compact size, which limits cargo space and can lead to firmer ride quality. Overall, the Yaris excels as a fuel-efficient urban companion with reliable performance and comprehensive safety, making it a compelling choice for those prioritising eco-conscious driving and manoeuvrability in city environments.
Reference
In Australia, the Toyota Yaris is a subcompact hatchback that only switched to a hybrid engine in 2024. This combination offers both better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Alongside the discontinuation of the petrol Toyota Yaris, the 2024 Yaris boasts increased power, a sportier look, and advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense. Its clever design maximises interior space; the Yaris is a strong contender for those seeking a small, fuel-efficient, and safe car for city driving.
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Compact size, perfect for city driving
- User-friendly and comfortable interior
Cons:
- Limited power
- Handling priorities comfort over sporty responsiveness
- Cramped rear seat space
The Yaris has been a familiar sight on Australian roads since 2005, taking the baton from the successful Echo. Though it might be the compact kid on the Toyota block, the Yaris packs a punch. Safety is a strong suit, and the innovative hybrid system means you can save on fuel and skip the charging station - it's all self-contained! But is the Yaris all practical, or does it offer a fun driving experience, too? Let's find out!
| Variants | Driveaway price | Fuel type | Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport | $32,643 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
| Toyota Yaris SX | $36,254 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
| Toyota Yaris ZR | $38,933 | Hybrid | 3.3L / 100km |
Exteriors
Imagine a practical and sporty car condensed into a city-friendly size. That's the essence of the Toyota Yaris in Australia.
Styling elements
The Toyota Yaris in Australia is sleeker and more modern, ditching the cute factor. With a V-shaped hood leading your eyes to the Toyota logo, it exudes a sporty vibe. The standard grille is upgraded to dark chrome on higher trims, and the LED headlights shine brightly at night. The ZR trim includes a rear spoiler and black mirror caps that match the darkened grille for an extra touch of aggression. Overall, the Yaris offers a city-friendly package that combines functionality with a striking, contemporary design.
Colour options
The Yaris offers 12 vibrant single-tone colours. For the ZR model, you can be flashier and choose from 6 striking two-tone combinations.
The 12 colours you get include Super White, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl, Coral Rose, Cherry Blossom, Atomic Rush, Eclectic Blue, Bronx Bronze, Ebony, Lunar Blue, Scarlet and Electric Green.
The two-toned colour combinations include Coral Rose with Black Roof, Cherry Blossom with Black Roof, Atomic Rush with White Roof, Eclectic Blue with Black Roof, Bronx Bronze with Black Roof and Ebony with White Roof.
Wheel design
The Yaris Ascent Sport has 15-inch steel wheels featuring wheel caps for a classic look. Stepping up to the Yaris SX upgrades you to 15-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of style and refinement. For the ultimate in-wheel aesthetics, the Yaris ZR boasts 16-inch alloy wheels, enhancing both the appearance and performance of the vehicle.
Interiors
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia is designed with a focus on practicality and comfort, making it perfect for city driving.
Interior layout and space
The Toyota Yaris in Australia prioritises practicality and efficient use of space within its subcompact frame. The cabin layout is designed with the driver in mind, placing all controls within easy reach. Storage solutions are cleverly integrated throughout, including cup holders, device holders, and compartments for everyday essentials.
The Yaris provides ample space for both front and rear passengers. There are 38.2 inches of headroom, 41.9 inches of legroom, 53.2 inches of shoulder room, and 48.6 inches of hip room. In the second row, passengers get 36.8 inches of headroom, 34.4 inches of legroom, 50 inches of shoulder room, and 49.5 inches of hip room, ensuring comfort for all occupants.
Comfort and ergonomics
While the Yaris might not be the most luxurious car on the road, it prioritises comfort for city driving. The seats are designed for short and medium journeys, offering adequate support. However, we are sure taller passengers will find the rear seats slightly cramped for legroom. Nevertheless, the overall interior space is well-utilised for a subcompact car, making it comfortable for daily commutes or running errands around town.
Ergonomics plays a big role in the Yaris' interior design. The user-friendly layout ensures a smooth driving experience. Controls are intuitively placed, minimising the need to take your eyes off the road. This thoughtful design philosophy provides a comfortable and safe driving experience, especially when navigating tight city streets.
Boot
The Toyota Yaris might be a subcompact hatchback, but its boot space offers surprising practicality for its size. With the rear seats upright, you'll find a usable cargo area rated at 270 litres – ideal for everyday essentials like groceries, luggage for a weekend getaway, or even sports equipment like a gym bag or a folded bike.
Technology and infotainment
The Toyota Yaris in Australia doesn't overwhelm you with excessive technology, but it packs what you need for a connected and convenient city driving experience.
Infotainment
The Yaris features an upgraded 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system. This user-friendly interface effortlessly navigates through menus, accesses features, and controls various functions. Voice commands are also integrated, allowing you to manage calls, get directions, or switch playlists without taking your hands off the wheel, keeping your focus on the road.
Street smart connectivity
The 2024 Yaris is fully committed to seamless connectivity. No more struggling with cords - Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™️ are both seamlessly integrated wirelessly. This makes it easy to link your smartphone to the car's infotainment system, ensuring you stay connected to your digital life while driving.
Premium audio experience
The Yaris boasts a premium audio experience with six strategically placed speakers throughout the cabin. Whether listening to podcasts, audiobooks or jamming to your favourite tunes, these speakers ensure rich and clear sound quality, making every journey more enjoyable.
Head-Up Display (ZR Grade)
Upgrade to the Yaris ZR and experience the convenience of a Head-Up Display (HUD). This innovative feature projects vital information like speed, navigation, and safety alerts directly onto the windshield right in your sight. This minimises distractions by allowing you to keep your eyes focused on the road ahead.
Toyota connected services
Every new Yaris comes with Toyota Connected Services, offering complimentary access for the first year. These services enhance your driving experience, focusing on safety, security, convenience, and overall connectivity.
Performance and engine
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia ditches traditional gasoline engines and embraces a hybrid powertrain. This combination of an electric motor and a gasoline engine offers several advantages.
Engine specifications
The Toyota Yaris lineup offers three variants all equipped with a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine. The Yaris Ascent Sport and Yaris SX generate 118 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque each, while the Yaris ZR produces 89 horsepower with the same torque output. These variants cater to different needs, balancing performance and efficiency within the compact and reliable Yaris range.
| Variants | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 118 hp | 145Nm |
| Toyota Yaris SX | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 118 hp | 145Nm |
| Toyota Yaris ZR | 1.5 L 3-cylinder | 89 hp | 145 Nm |
Transmission
Regardless of the variant you choose, all 2024 Toyota Yaris models in Australia come equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This automatic transmission system ensures smooth and seamless gear changes, optimising fuel efficiency and providing a comfortable driving experience.
Powertrain and acceleration
The hybrid powertrain in all Yaris variants prioritises fuel economy and eco-friendliness. While acceleration figures aren't readily available, the Yaris is designed for city driving, offering enough power to navigate city streets and handle everyday commutes with ease.
Handling
While the Toyota Yaris excels in city driving due to its compact size and manoeuvrability, it's important to be realistic about its handling capabilities. Don't expect a sporty, thrill-seeking experience. The suspension is likely tuned for comfort and stability over sharp handling. This means it might feel a little soft or boaty during aggressive cornering. However, the benefit is a smooth and comfortable ride for everyday commutes and navigating city streets.
Ultimately, the Yaris prioritises practicality and efficiency over sporty performance. If sharp handling is a major priority, you might want to consider exploring other Toyota models. But for navigating city streets and errands with confidence, the Yaris offers a well-balanced and manoeuvrable driving experience.
Fuel efficiency
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia boasts a standout feature: exceptional fuel efficiency. All three variants, Ascent Sport, SX, and ZR, achieve an impressive combined fuel consumption of 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km). This translates to significant cost savings at the pump and reduced environmental impact.
The secret lies in the Yaris' hybrid powertrain. The electric motor can propel the car for short distances or assist the gasoline engine, which is particularly beneficial in stop-and-go city traffic. Additionally, regenerative braking captures energy when you slow down or brake, converting it back into electricity for later use, further enhancing efficiency. Combining a smaller, efficient gasoline engine and electric motor assistance significantly reduces fuel consumption compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Choosing the Yaris means saving money on fuel and minimising your environmental footprint.
Safety features
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia prioritises safety for you and your passengers. It has a suite of advanced safety features to enhance your confidence on the road. These features may include Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive system that can include elements like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Lane Trace Assist (LTA) to keep you in your lane. Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alerts might also be available on higher trims, providing additional warnings when changing lanes or reversing. These driver-assistance features work together to prevent accidents and keep you informed of your surroundings, making the Yaris a well-equipped and safe choice for city driving.
Some of these safety features include:
- Airbags
- Collision warning
- Electronic stability control
- Rear parking camera
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Emergency steering assist
- Front cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Speed limiter
- Driver attention alert
The Toyota Yaris, introduced in Australia in August 2020, holds a 5-star ANCAP safety rating across all variants. The Toyota Yaris Cross has its own unique rating.
Ownership experience
The Toyota Yaris SE has garnered attention among enthusiasts for its reliability and versatility. Many users commend its enduring performance, as evidenced by its ability to withstand over 230,000 miles of daily driving before transitioning to a role as a specialised backroad and autocross vehicle. Reviewers appreciate its compact design and manual transmission, contributing to an engaging driving experience. However, some critiques have surfaced regarding its perceived lack of power, particularly on highways, and its firm suspension that can result in a somewhat noisy ride compared to larger cars. Overall, the Yaris SE has earned a reputation for durability and driving enjoyment, albeit with some trade-offs in comfort for its size and purpose.
Major strengths
- Excellent fuel efficiency, making it cost-effective for daily commuting.
- Compact size and tight turning radius, ideal for urban driving and parking.
- Well-designed interior with ergonomic controls and ample storage spaces.
- Toyota's reputation for reliability and longevity ensures peace of mind for owners.
Major drawbacks
- Limited cargo space compared to larger hatchbacks or SUVs.
- The engine can feel underpowered during acceleration, especially with a full load.
- Basic interior materials and features may feel less premium compared to higher-end models.
- Due to its compact design, road and engine noise can be more noticeable at higher speeds.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
The Toyota Yaris hatchback's annual 15,000km service, previously capped at $195, now requires an additional $50 per visit under the updated Toyota Service Advantage program. Over the course of the five-year warranty period, this totals an extra $250 in maintenance costs. The warranty for the Toyota Yaris is 5 years, ensuring coverage for mechanical issues and providing peace of mind to owners regarding unforeseen expenses during this timeframe.
Verdict
The 2024 Toyota Yaris in Australia impresses with its sleek design, hybrid efficiency, and robust safety features, earning it high marks as a city-friendly hatchback. Its enhanced power and modern styling cater to both practicality and aesthetics, while advanced technologies like wireless Apple CarPlay® and Toyota Safety Sense bolster its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider its compact size, which limits cargo space and can lead to firmer ride quality. Overall, the Yaris excels as a fuel-efficient urban companion with reliable performance and comprehensive safety, making it a compelling choice for those prioritising eco-conscious driving and manoeuvrability in city environments.
