why ads?

Popular at KBB.com

The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Toyota Yaris

Please enter a valid mileage

View all 46 photos

Want to save money? Check out the 2012 Toyota Yaris

Overview

Get Your Fair Purchase Price See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more. See what you should pay

Buy used | Trade-in/Sell

2013 Toyota Yaris Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.2

In the subcompact category, Toyota's Yaris had fallen behind newer, edgier competitors such as the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta and Mazda Mazda2, so Toyota completely revamped the car last year. The 2013 Toyota Yaris hatchback pursues younger buyers with its suite of high-tech audio and communications features, attractive styling and the well-established Toyota reputation for reliability and resale value. But the Yaris' mission isn't an easy one. Though roomier and more stylish than its predecessor, the Yaris' looks and performance don't make a huge splash in this competitive category. Newcomers such as the sleek Kia Rio, sassy Hyundai Accent and bold Chevrolet Sonic make the Toyota Yaris look pretty conservative – maybe not the best thing for this audience.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for a 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 2013 Toyota Yaris hatchback may be it.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you need your car to be expressive both inside and out, the 2013 Toyota Yaris' black and gray interior schemes don't match 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

6.5
Design: Interior & Exterior

6.3
Value

6.5
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#4

out of 10

MPG

#7

out of 10

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.2 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

What's New for 2013

Last year, Toyota gave the Yaris hatchback a complete makeover. The only changes for 2013 involve equipment packaging: The good audio system (AM/FM/CD, six speakers, USB port, Bluetooth) is now standard on all trims including the base L, and cruise control, formerly an LE option, is now standard there.

Driving the Yaris

2013 Toyota Yaris Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions Driving the 2013 Toyota Yaris hatchback offers few surprises. The 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is rated at 106 horsepower. It feels smooth and acceptably strong under moderate acceleration around town, but...

can seem strained if more is asked of it. The automatic transmission is only a 4-speed. Steering is light and suspension action nicely compliant. The top, slightly sportier SE trim has firmer suspension and sharper steering response but the same engine output. Fuel economy is in the mid-to-high 30s, which is certainly competitive in its class. But there is no denying the Yaris is built down to a price and this shows in its powertrain. For about the same money, a Hyundai Accent offers a more advanced direct-injection 1.6 that makes a whopping (relatively) 138 horsepower and still tops the Yaris in EPA city/highway fuel economy, 30/40 mpg versus the Yaris' 30/35 (automatics).

Favorite Features

BLUETOOTH
Now standard on all Yaris trims, this system 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 addressed by standard airbags protecting the front and rear passengers. Even the driver's knees are covered.

2013 Toyota Yaris Details

2013 Toyota Yaris Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

The 2013 Toyota Yaris' interior design is clean and modern but the materials seem rather low-budget, with lots of muted gray and black plastic bits and generic seat fabric. On the plus side, the 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. There is a respectable 15.6 cubic feet of load space behind the rear seats. The 2013 Toyota Yaris includes a nice, thick-grip 3-spoke adjustable steering wheel with a flat bottom to aid entry and exit.

Exterior

The Toyota Yaris subcompact grew in every dimension except height in its redesign last year, and has a nice, bulldog stance: leaning forward, ready to pick a fight. The short front and rear overhangs and short hood help make maneuvering through tight spots a breeze, as does the expansive greenhouse that provides excellent 360-degree views. The Yaris is the first Toyota vehicle to employ a single-windshield-wiper design, a feature often found on high-end European cars. Base model L and LE cars ride on 15-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, while the sporty SE gets 16-inch alloys.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2013 Toyota Yaris surely carries the most simplified list of options: there aren't any. Equipment and features are packaged statically across the models and trims. The 3-door body is available in base L trim with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, or in LE trim with the automatic only. The 5-doors come in L or LE trim with the automatic only, or in the top, sportier SE trim with either transmission. All configurations include electric power steering, air conditioning, power door locks, intermittent wipers, halogen headlights, HD Radio with six speakers and Bluetooth phone connectivity and streaming audio.

Optional Equipment

Last year, the one and only Yaris factory option was cruise control, available on the LE trim. Now even that option is gone, as the 2013 Yaris LE includes cruise control as standard equipment. Also bundled in the LE package are power windows and mirrors, remote keyless entry 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 and higher-bolstered front seats. Dealer-installed accessories include a rear spoiler, mudguards, body-side molding and rear cargo net.

Under the Hood

The 2013 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 it might feel marginal when passing on a 2-way highway. Transmission choices are a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic, which are functional enough but not very cutting-edge alongside the 6-speed units offered by others in the class. The Hyundai Accent makes a tough comparison: lots more power (138) as well as better EPA fuel economy (30/40) from a direct-injection engine and 6-speed transmission, all for about the same money.

1.5-liter inline-4
106 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
103 lb-ft of torque @ 4,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 30/38 mpg (manual), 30/35 mpg (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 over $15,000, while a 5-door LE with an automatic transmission sells for over $17,000. The SE trim starts just over $17,000 and tops $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. 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, about even with the Ford Fiesta but a bit below the Honda Fit.

To find out what consumers are really paying for this vehicle, first select a style to see the Fair Purchase Price| Calculate payments for this vehicle

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Toyota Yaris vehicles for sale near you.

Get Your Fair Purchase Price See actual transaction prices, explore total cost to own, projected resale value and more.

See what you should pay

Buy used | Trade-in/Sell

2013 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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

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

Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse

See all 12 reviews