The Toyota Yaris Ia has quickly become a standout in the subcompact sedan segment, earning praise for its surprisingly dynamic driving experience, advanced safety technology, and a suite of premium features that defy its affordable price tag. For drivers seeking a vehicle that’s both engaging and economical, the Toyota Yaris iA presents a compelling option, blurring the lines between “entry-level” and genuinely exciting. Can a car with a starting MSRP under $16,000 truly deliver a sporty sedan experience? The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA emphatically answers yes.
Beneath its stylishly sculpted exterior lies a surprisingly agile and responsive machine. The Yaris iA redefines expectations for the subcompact class, offering a driving experience that’s more akin to vehicles in higher segments. This is achieved through a combination of a robust body structure, a spirited 1.5-liter engine producing 106 horsepower, and the choice between a slick 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Standard 16-inch alloy wheels further enhance the Yaris iA’s athletic stance and handling prowess, making it genuinely appealing to driving enthusiasts and those simply seeking enjoyable everyday transportation. The inclusion of a 7-inch multimedia system with voice recognition is another unexpected premium touch in this vehicle class.
Image alt text: Front view of 2018 Toyota Yaris iA in blue, highlighting its sporty front grille and headlight design.
Safety is paramount, and the Yaris iA prioritizes peace of mind with its standard Low-speed Pre-collision Safety System. This feature is remarkable for a vehicle in this price category and aligns with Toyota’s commitment to making automatic emergency braking widely accessible across its model lineup. For budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on safety, the Toyota Yaris iA delivers exceptional value.
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for subcompact sedan buyers, and the Yaris iA excels in this area as well. Equipped with the automatic transmission, it achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway, and 35 mpg combined. Even with the manual gearbox, the numbers remain impressive at 30 city/39 highway/34 combined mpg. These figures make the Toyota Yaris iA a smart choice for those looking to minimize fuel costs without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
The Yaris iA’s design is undeniably eye-catching, setting it apart from the typical subcompact crowd. Its striking profile is accentuated by a distinctive hexagon lower front grille and sharp, modern headlights. The spacious trunk contributes to the Yaris iA’s unique silhouette within the segment, offering practicality without compromising style. A standard 60/40-split rear seat further enhances versatility, allowing for easy expansion of cargo space when needed. Upscale touches like piano black bumper accents, a chrome grille surround, and a chrome tailpipe are unexpected refinements that elevate the Yaris iA beyond its class. The vibrant color palette, including options like Stealth, Abyss, and Sapphire, allows drivers to personalize their Yaris iA to match their individual style.
Image alt text: Interior view of Toyota Yaris iA showing dashboard, 7-inch touchscreen display, steering wheel, and comfortable seating.
The surprises continue as you delve deeper into the Yaris iA’s standard features. Keyless Entry with Push-Button Start is included, adding a touch of convenience typically found in higher-priced vehicles. Once you press the start button, the Yaris iA feels lively and responsive, effortlessly navigating daily commutes while maintaining excellent fuel economy. The transmissions play a significant role in this enjoyable driving experience. The standard 6-speed manual is noted for its smooth, short throws and low-friction design, making it a joy for enthusiasts. The available 6-speed automatic is equally adept, combining the smooth launch characteristics of a torque-converter automatic with quick, direct shifts and enhanced fuel efficiency once underway thanks to its lock-up converter. For drivers wanting an even more engaging experience, Sport Mode is readily accessible with the flip of a switch, providing heightened throttle response and shift points.
Agility is fundamental to the Yaris iA’s design philosophy. It’s not simply about adding sporty components; it’s engineered into the car’s core structure. The body utilizes strategically placed high-tensile steel and straight beams in a continuous framework, resulting in exceptional structural rigidity. This robust foundation enables fine-tuned suspension settings, achieving an optimal balance between sporty handling and a comfortable ride quality thanks to the MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. The steering and braking systems have also been carefully calibrated. A rigid steering mount delivers a direct and responsive feel, while the brakes are tuned for progressive engagement, offering smooth initial response and increased firmness as cornering forces build.
Image alt text: Rear angle of 2018 Toyota Yaris iA in grey, emphasizing its trunk space and rear taillight design.
The Yaris iA’s high-strength structure is not only beneficial for handling but also crucial for safety. A solid H-shaped joint connecting the roof, B-pillars, and underbody, combined with high-tensile steel in key frame members and the floor, creates a robust safety cell. Beyond structural integrity, the Toyota Yaris iA comes standard with an advanced Active Safety System, encompassing Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Brake Over-ride System (BOS). Front side airbags and curtain airbags further protect occupants in both front and rear seats, and a rearview backup camera is also standard equipment. The Low-Speed Pre-Collision System is a standout feature within this comprehensive safety suite, actively scanning the road ahead for potential collisions. If a frontal collision risk is detected, the system provides audio/visual alerts and braking assistance, and can automatically apply the brakes if the driver doesn’t react, further solidifying the Toyota Yaris iA’s commitment to driver and passenger safety.
The interior of the Toyota Yaris iA continues to defy “entry-level” expectations with premium chrome accents and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. The design prioritizes driver comfort and ergonomics, accommodating a wide range of body types with features like a 10-inch fore-aft seat slide adjustment and a standard seat height adjuster. The steering wheel offers both tilt and telescoping adjustments for finding the perfect driving position. Convenience features like cruise control, power windows and locks, and power exterior mirrors are all standard. The sporty steering wheel integrates audio and Bluetooth controls for easy access, and the standard 7-inch Display Audio system features a touchscreen, six speakers, and a remote interface. Pandora, Aha, and Stitcher integration are also standard, providing a wealth of entertainment options when paired with a compatible smartphone. For personal media, dual USB ports and an auxiliary input are included. Voice recognition further enhances convenience and safety, allowing drivers to control many multimedia functions without taking their hands off the wheel. An optional navigation system is available through Toyota dealerships for those needing turn-by-turn directions.
Warranty and Peace of Mind
The Toyota Yaris iA is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty covering all components except for normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months or 60,000 miles, and corrosion protection extends for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Standard ToyotaCare adds further value with a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. This robust warranty and service package provides added peace of mind and reinforces the Toyota Yaris iA as a smart and dependable choice in the subcompact sedan segment.
