Should you buy a Toyota Yaris?

If you’re not too fussed about space, and are more concerned with fuel consumption, then we can happily recommend the Toyota Yaris. We’d suggest going for cars with the 16-inch wheels as they have different suspension settings, which makes the Yaris more comfortable if a bit less sporting.

In our extended six-month test, Driver Gareth Evans reported back, ‘Nobody buys cars like this with cash anymore, but admittedly with a list pricing starting with a two it does look rather expensive. However, If you can afford a decently sized deposit on a PCP, I genuinely can’t think of many reasons not to. It’ll do everything you need, and do it cheerfully. I’m really going to miss it, and it’s set the bar incredibly high for the next car on the list.’

But in the small car pecking order the Yaris simply can’t compel us enough with level-headed efficiency and reliability alone. The Renault Clio E-Tech is a small hybrid with a much nicer interior, better infotainment system and is nicer to drive. The MG3+ Hybrid undercuts it on price and it cannot match the versatility offered by the Honda Jazz. It is a compelling pick than the Mazda 2 Hybrid though.

What we like

A 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, decent kit list, and an easy 60mpg+ when driven sensibly add up to a tempting long-term ownership proposition. It’s also surprisingly fun to drive, offering agile handling and punchy performance.

What we don’t like

The interior feels old and utilitarian in the face of jazzier, nicer-finished offerings from cheaper cars. Space in the back and boot are far from class-leading and