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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Toyota Yaris

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Toyota Yaris

Overview

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2012 Toyota Yaris Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.2

In the subcompact category, Toyota's Yaris was getting run over by newer, more edgy competitors such as the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta and MAZDA2. To remedy the situation, Toyota has revamped the 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback (called a liftback in Toyota-speak), giving new life to its larger, more stylish and more content-heavy small car. Realizing that 70 percent of subcompacts sold in the U.S. are of the hatchback variety, Toyota has killed off the sedan model, offering only a 3-door and 5-door hatch. The 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback hopes to lure younger buyers with its newly acquired suite of high-tech audio and communications features, attractive styling, and the well established Toyota reliability and resale story. But, the Yaris' mission isn't going to be an easy one. Just this year, a host of new competitors has joined the subcompact party, including the sleek new Kia Rio, sassy Hyundai Accent and the bold Chevrolet Sonic.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for small, economical car that is fun to drive, affordable on just about any budget, and is backed by one of the most respected car manufacturers in the world, the 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback is for you.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If, like you, your car needs to be expressive both inside and out, the 2012 Toyota Yaris' black and gray interior colors can't hold a candle to the colorful cabins found in the Ford Fiesta, Kia Rio and Chevy Sonic.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

6.2
Driving Dynamics

5.8
Comfort & Convenience

6.0
Design: Interior & Exterior

5.8
Value

6.8
Safety

8.0

How It Ranks

#4

out of 8

MPG

#6

out of 8

Horsepower

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Consumer Rating

9.2 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2012

For 2012, Toyota gives the Yaris hatchback a complete makeover, with new sheet metal, a longer wheelbase and a new interior.

Driving the Yaris

2012 Toyota Yaris Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions Driving the 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback is just what you might expect but with a few surprises. The 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine uses a variable-valve-timing system (known as VVT-i) and dual-overhead...

camshafts and is rated at 106 horsepower. There is a light, almost effortless feel to the Yaris in steering and during moderate acceleration; however, the engine seems strained when asked to deliver more. Things get a bit more lively in the SE trim, which, although it doesn't have more power, does deliver better steering response and a more controlled ride. Fuel economy is in the mid to high 30s, which is near the top of its class. Still, the biggest problem the Yaris faces is the horsepower challenge. The Yaris' closet competitor, the Honda Fit, has 11 more horsepower, and the Kia Rio an additional 22. This kind of subtle difference may not impact you but, if you're in any way interested in quickness and responsiveness, the Yaris might fail to impress.

Favorite Features

Bluetooth
Available on all trims (either as a factory option or a dealer-installed one), this device makes it far safer to drive and talk on the phone simultaneously and should be standard on every car.

Nine Airbags
Always a concern when driving a subcompact, the safety issue is laid to rest with standard airbags protecting the front and rear passengers. Even the driver's knees are covered.

2012 Toyota Yaris Details

2012 Toyota Yaris Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

The 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback subcompact's interior is a bit of a contradiction. While the design is clean and modern, the materials look and feel rather low-budget, with lots of muted gray and black plastic bits, and seat fabric that is somewhat generic Toyota. On the plus side, the 2012 Toyota Yaris' interior is pretty roomy for such a small car, with good headroom front and rear. The hatchback design allows for easy loading of cargo, which with the rear seats up is a respectable 15.6 cubic feet. The 2012 Toyota Yaris includes a nice, thick-grip 3-spoke adjustable steering wheel with a flat bottom to make entry and exit a bit less cumbersome. Music lovers will appreciate the standard USB and auxiliary input ports, as well as the AM/FM stereo with MP3/WMA CD compatibility; the LE and SE trims have even more features including Bluetooth streaming audio. On the safety front, the Yaris has nine airbags including front and rear side-curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag.

Exterior

The new 2012 Toyota Yaris subcompact retains the previous car's mechanicals (engine, transmission and suspension), but now rides on a wheelbase that is two inches longer. The Yaris' overall length grows by three inches, but its height is slightly reduced to give it a sleeker, sportier appearance. The 2012 Toyota Yaris retains its bulldog stance, looking as though it is leaning forward ready to pick a fight. The short front and rear overhangs and short hood should make maneuvering through tight spots a breeze, as should the expansive greenhouse that provides excellent 360-degree visibility. The 2012 Toyota Yaris subcompact is the first Toyota vehicle to employ a single-windshield-wiper design, a feature normally found only on high-end European cars. Base model L and LE cars ride on 15-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, while the sporty SE trim has 16-inch alloy wheels.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

While the 2012 Toyota Yaris might not be the most feature-laden Toyota, it certainly carries the most simplified options list. Base cars include a 5-speed manual transmission, electric power steering, air conditioning, power door locks, intermittent wipers, halogen headlights and a Cold Weather Package that includes a rear defroster. The LE trim adds a 4-speed automatic transmission, HD radio with six speakers, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and streaming audio, power windows and mirrors, remote keyless entry and alarm, 6-way adjustable driver's and 4-way adjustable passenger's seat, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. The sporty SE is available only as a 5-door model and adds a sport suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes, cruise control, rear spoiler, sport front seats with sport fabric and sport analog instruments. All 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchbacks feature Toyota's Star Safety system with nine airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic traction and stability control.

Optional Equipment

The only factory option is cruise control, which can be added to the LE trim. There are, however, a number of dealer-installed accessories including Bluetooth, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, iPod interface and carpeted floor mats.

Under the Hood

The 2012 Toyota Yaris 3- and 5-door hatchbacks share the same 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i), producing 106 horsepower. This is enough power to tool around town, but maybe not enough to take a chance at passing a Mack truck on a 2-way highway with an oncoming car in sight.

1.5-liter in-line 4
106 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
103 lb-ft of torque @ 4,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 30/38 (manual), 30/35 (automatic)

Pricing Notes

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for a base Toyota Yaris 3-door L hatchback with a manual transmission starts just under $15,000, while a 5-door LE with an automatic transmission and cruise control sells for around $17,000. The SE trim lists for around $17,000 and tops around $18,000 with the automatic. The Yaris' main competitor, the Honda Fit, has a starting MSRP closer to $16,000, and includes many of the same features (and a slightly more powerful engine). The Ford Fiesta starts around $14,000, but can get expensive as options are added. The 2012 Kia Rio is the hardest to beat in the bang-for-the-buck category, but probably won't have the same strong resale figures as the 2012 Toyota Yaris hatchback. To make your best deal, be sure to check the kbb.com Fair Purchase Price, which shows what others in your area are paying. The Yaris is expected to retain a better-than-average resale value over time, higher than the Kia Rio, on par with the Ford Fiesta but a bit below the Honda Fit.

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2012 Toyota Yaris Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.2

Out of 10

Based on 12 Ratings for the 2012 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.9/10

Quality

9.1/10
Reliability

9.2/10

Performance

8.8/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.1/10

LOVE IT! 2013 Yaris is Just What a Car Should Be.

By HappyYarisOwner on Saturday, May 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 10,200

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fuel Efficient...Fun to Drive!"

Cons: "None to Speak Of. Love This Car!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This car really satisfies! Toyota is known for its Reliability and the Yaris is no exception. This car is going to be there every single time you need it. Another plus for the Yaris is the Simplicity. It's interior is designed to provide everything you need but no extra clutter and frills. Excellent stereo, built in Bluetooth for streaming Pandora or what have you, adequate cup holders etc. Everything you need and nothing you don't. What is most lovebale? The Yaris' Fuel Efficiency. This car "sips" gas. I average at least 41 MPG. I LOVE IT...I am absolutely in love with this car."

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Completely Enthralled With My 2013 Yaris L Coupe!

By Jay Peterson (NC) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 900

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Awesome MPG's - Roomy - Comfortable - FUN"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Never in my life have I been so excited about a new car purchase as I have been with this car. I have driven MANY cars in the past 30-35 years, but this one is just fantastic. Maybe it's my age (52) and the idea of simplifying transportation from Point A to Point B...Regardless, this 2013 Yaris L is a keeper. This is my first Toyota, should have bought one years ago. Even being the base model, it has more than enough goodies for me. Air Conditioning, Power Locks, Tilt Wheel, 6 Speaker Stereo System with a CD player & iPod capability, awesome sound. Gas mileage is excellent, the MPG ratings on the Yaris are VERY conservative. I can drive a month on a 10.5 gallon tank of gas, now THAT is fun. Controls are easy to use, you sit high in the seats and they are extremely comfortable and supportive. Engine compartment is very roomy & this car will be easy to work on (oil changes, belts, etc.) in the years to come. Back seat area is huge if you ask me, the whole interior is a perfect personal space. It is a blast to drive, very responsive throttle and the 4 speed auto shifts flawlessly. Loads of storage & safety features, too. Air blows COLD, the switches work with precision (lights, locks, fan speed) brakes are tight and do not fade, it is a pleasure to drive. Love the dashboard and the interior trim is sturdy and pleasing. If you are tired of $300.00 plus monthly gas charges - Test drive the Yaris - It's a 2,300 pound go-kart with air conditioning that will make you feel like a kid again!"

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Had it as a rental, Loved it so bought one.

By Septembersrain (TX) on Tuesday, May 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 59

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "reliability, gas mileage, agility, size"

Cons: "No arm rest, Easily damaged materials"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Just purchased my 2013 Yaris LE 3-door. I love the drive and I get great gas mileage. I had the rental prior to my purchase and in a week, I used a little under a half a tank. I drove it quite a bit actually, Both in city and highway. Only qualms I have are no arm rests, easily dirtied and scratched hard materials in the dash, and no tachometer (Only on SE model). Besides that, This car is absolutely amazing to drive, It's super fun for me. I like that they are using a tried and true engine/transmission combination. After seeing older Yaris models with 100K + miles, I definitely am looking forward to the reliability!"

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Enjoyable

By Susie (CA) on Saturday, April 06, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, great gas mileage"

Cons: "Side view mirrors manual"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I bought this car recently and have enjoyed driving it. It gets great gas milaeage. I drove to Palm Springs and back on 1/2 a tank. Compared to a bigger car that is really good. Living in Los Angeles means you must have a car. The public transportation is really bad here. So an economical car, that fits my budget, is really necessary. It has a great turning radius and is comfortable. It is larger that my last car, a Nissan Sentra that was 14 years old. The interior is not luxury, but I am not a traveling sales man. I don't live in my car. I just enjoy driving it.It also has five different places to put your drink. Three of them convenient to the driver."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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Best car out there!

By monicapdot (VA) on Wednesday, March 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 22,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "practical, fun to drive, great value, convenient"

Cons: "nothing"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I'm always recommending this car to everyone I meet that has anything to say about it. Mine is a 2010 and has now 22000+ miles on it and running the same as it was when it drove off the lot. It's my first Toyota and I can see why the engines have such a good rep. The Yaris is so tiny yet so practical in every way imaginable. You can park this thing anywhere, the turning radius allows you to pull a U-turn on any street, and the handling feels like a much more expensive sport hatch. The listed economy figures are very conservative: I get 40mpg easily, and I can do that while still having the oomph to pass most cars I see on the road. Granted, mind is a manual which gives me an edge, but it's just so much fun to drive and doesn't break the bank. I was amazed at how much storage space there is inside; they put compartments everywhere, even a second glove box behind the steering wheel. Really smart design. I only took a point off for quality as there is an abundance of cheap-ish plastic, but you're not paying for a Rolls-Royce here so that's ok with me. And the seats could be a bit more comfortable, but I'm pretty short so this is a common problem for me. No other complaints I can think of. This is just a really great car for a fantastic price. On a side note, I'd like to add that it's also designed with impacts in mind. My husband hit a deer on the highway, and no major damage was to be had, just cosmetic. Upon closer inspection, I noticed how the front is designed to transfer energy in the event of a collision, and I'm really glad we were in this car when it happened."

3 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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great car to save in space and gas but it shakes !

By mr lewis (TX) on Wednesday, March 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 39,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 7/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"You can expect amazing if you have a toyota Yaris...expect also in windy whether that the car shakes in the highway and really is hard to control the steering. I think people in Toyota should work on this because is the only defect I can mention ..."

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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See all 12 reviews