Calling all city slickers and eco-conscious drivers! Let’s talk about the 2024 Toyota Yaris, a car that zooms through urban jungles with ease while sipping on fuel like a hummingbird on nectar. This little hatchback might surprise you with its peppy performance, impressive fuel efficiency, and suite of tech features. But before you hit the “sign me up” button, let’s dive deeper and see if the Yaris fits the bill.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fuel Efficiency King: The Yaris holds the crown for Australia’s most fuel-efficient car that doesn’t need plugging in. Those hybrid muscles boast a claimed consumption of just 3.3L/100km in combined driving – that’s some serious bang for your buck (and the environment!).
- Tech-Savvy: Gone are the days of basic dashboards. The Yaris packs a punch with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Stay connected, entertained, and navigate your way around town with ease.
- Safety First: Toyota prioritizes safety, and the Yaris is no exception. It comes loaded with features like pre-collision safety with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams, keeping you and your loved ones protected.
- Parking Prowess: Parallel parking woes? Begone! The Yaris’ compact size and maneuverability make navigating tight city streets and squeezing into tricky parking spots a breeze.
Cons
- Goodbye Petrol: Gone are the purely petrol-powered Yaris options. If you crave the roar of a traditional engine, this might not be your ride.
- Snug for Five: While comfortable for four, the backseat might feel a tad cramped if you’re planning on regularly cramming five adults in.
- Price Point Ponder: The switch to hybrid has pushed the starting price past the $30,000 mark. Consider your budget and driving needs before taking the plunge.
How Much Does it Cost?
The 2024 Toyota Yaris comes in two main variants:
- Ascent Sport Hybrid: Starting at a very reasonable $28,500 (before on-road costs), this is your entry point into the Yaris world.
- SX Hybrid: This mid-spec option starts at $30,190 (before on-road costs) and offers a few extra creature comforts.
There’s also a top-of-the-range ZR Hybrid variant with some sporty touches, but that information is still under wraps – stay tuned!
Features and Benefits: A Closer Look
Beyond the impressive fuel economy, the Yaris boasts a bunch of features that make city driving a joy. The aforementioned infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained, while the suite of safety features provides peace of mind. Additionally, you’ll appreciate the keyless entry and start, automatic climate control, and a reversing camera, making every trip that much more convenient.
Safety First: Peace of Mind on the Road
Toyota is renowned for its safety focus, and the Yaris is no exception. It comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a comprehensive suite of features that includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system can help identify potential collisions with vehicles and pedestrians and may automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an impact.
- Lane Departure Alert: This system can help detect unintentional lane departure and provide a visual or audible warning to nudge you back on track.
- Automatic High Beam: This system automatically switches between high and low beams depending on oncoming traffic, ensuring optimal visibility without blinding other drivers.
How Does It Compare?
Running Costs: Save Money, Save the Planet
The Yaris‘ stellar fuel efficiency is the real star here. With a combined fuel consumption of 3.3L/100km, you’ll be filling up at the pump far less frequently. Add in Toyota’s reputation for reliability and lower maintenance costs, and the Yaris starts looking like a very economical choice in the long run.
Facing the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?
The Yaris squares off against some tough competition in the city hatchback segment. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Honda Jazz: Similar size, also offers hybrid options, but might be a touch pricier.
- Mazda 2: Fun to drive, slightly less spacious than the Yaris, available in petrol and mild hybrid options.
- Hyundai i20: Another strong contender with a good mix of features and price, might not be quite as fuel-efficient as the Yaris.
Conclusion
So, is the 2024 Toyota Yaris the perfect city car? It depends on your needs. If you’re an eco-conscious city dweller who prioritizes fuel efficiency, technology, and safety, the Yaris is a compelling choice. Its compact size makes parking a breeze, and the comfortable ride is perfect for zipping around town. However, if you need a car to regularly haul around a family of five or crave the thrill of a more powerful engine, you might want to explore other options.
Rating: 8/10
The 2024 Toyota Yaris shines as a fuel-efficient and feature-packed city car. While its starting price might make some hesitate, the long-term savings on fuel and potential lower maintenance costs make it a financially sensible choice. Plus, the safety features and comfortable ride make it a great companion for navigating the urban jungle. If you’re looking for a practical and eco-friendly way to conquer city streets, the Yaris is definitely worth a test drive.