2012 Toyota Yaris Review by Cars.com Staff

2012 Toyota Yaris

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2012 Toyota Yaris

Starting MSRP $14,115–$16,400

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Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National August 18, 2011

Vehicle Overview

Toyota has changed the look of its subcompact 2012 Yaris, dropped the sedan version and stretched the overall length of the car. The Yaris competes in a busy field of small cars against primary competitors like the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa and Mazda2. It will come in three trim levels: base L models, LE and sportier SE.


Exterior

Gone are the curvy lines and somewhat bulbous look of the previous versions, in favor of a more sleek, angular appearance. SE models get distinct styling touches including fog lights, rear spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels. L and LE models ride on 15-inch steel wheels.

In any trim, the Yaris more closely resembles a member of the Toyota family, particularly the Camry, than it ever did before.

The hatchback version is the only version sold now, as Toyota has dropped the sedan.


Interior

All Yaris trims get standard air conditioning and a CD stereo with auxiliary and USB jacks. In this version, Toyota dumped the controversial center-mounted gauges in favor of a conventional layout.

L trims have four speakers, manual windows and a fold-down rear bench seat. LE and SE models get power windows, a six-speaker stereo, 60/40-split folding rear seats, steering-wheel audio controls, and soft-touch dash and sill inserts. (Those inserts are hard plastic in the L.)

On top of that, SE models add cruise control — a stand-alone option on the LE — sport seats with more bolstering and different fabric, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift.


Under the hood

The engine is a 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 103 pounds-feet of torque, and buyers can choose either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. It's estimated to get 30/35 mpg city/highway with the automatic and 30/38 mpg with a five-speed manual.


Safety

The new Yaris comes standard with nine airbags, including rollover-sensing, side-impact curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, as well as a knee airbag for the driver.

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Bill JacksonCars.com NationalAugust 17, 2011
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalAugust 18, 2011

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