Quickie Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)

2007-2014 Toyota Yaris

The Good: Practical, a pleasure to drive

The Bad: Interior is not that flexible

The Say: Something unnoticed that has character.

Go For: 1.5
Avoid: You have no other choice

Price Range: P285,000-P400,000
Our Rating: ***

Related review: Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Yaris

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2009
2009-2012
2012-2014

Vehicle Overview
Sharing the platform with the Toyota Belta, the Yaris is still European designed similar to the first generation model. Both the sedan and hatchback use the same engines and components but utilizes a different sheet metal. While the first generation model which was launched in 2000 utilized the Echo nameplate, the second generation model now gets the Yaris badge.

Compared to its dinky predecessor, this one grew in size both inside and out while retaining the easy to drive personality it has. Going inside reveals more space and a dashboard similar to the Vios, a car whose platform it shares. While a lot of cubby holes and storage bins are present, a single fold bench poses a lack of flexibility especially if the need arises for cargo loading you would be in trouble.

Unlike the Vios and the current model, this one has a sole engine option in the form of a 1.5 engine which has ample power from low to mid range plus Toyota's VVT-I technology comes standard. And unlike its sedan sibling, this one has a fun to drive personality which you'll enjoy. Outward visibility is topnotch and it is complemented by an upright seating position.

What Should I Get
No need to worry for a variant to look at, rather several model years have equipment updates and it pays to look carefully as the later the unit, the more kit it has. Initial models from 2007 has all power features, alarm system, keyless entry, dual airbags, fog lamps, ABS brakes, MP3 function, and rear wiper. Models sold from June 2009 adds side mirror signal repeaters, auxiliary jack, and steering wheel audio controls while March 2012 had some exterior updates and red stitching. Only one engine is available: a 107hp 1.5.

How Much Would It Cost Me
This vehicle didn't sell well throughout, which translates to limited parts availability especially for the exterior components. However, several mechanical parts are similar to the Vios which makes things easy for the wallet. Fuel consumption is on the average with several rivals. Although not much problems were reported, do take a look for the alternator which has a weak characteristic in several instances.

Car Profiles - Toyota Yaris

TOYOTA YARIS

The second generation Yaris addresses lots of criticisms which its predecessor faced including the lack of space for both people and cargo and the non-availability of a lower displacement engine. Well, with both sides covered there's a variant for you.

The Good: More space, more variants

The Bad: Some hard touch plastics

Price Range: P745,000-P885,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 11, 2017

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	1.5 G	1.3 E
Price	P885,000	P745,000 (MT), P795,000 (AT)
Warranty	3 Years or 100,000kms	3 Years or 100,000kms
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	2NR-FE 1.5 DOHC 16V I4	1NR-FE 1.3 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	103hp @ 6,000rpm	99hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque	139Nm @ 4,200rpm	132Nm @ 3,800rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	EFI VVT-i	Dual VVT-i
Transmission	Continuously Variable Transmission	5-Speed Manual, Continuously Variable Transmission
Fuel Tank Capacity	42 Liters	42 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,415mm	4,415mm
Width	1,700mm	1,700mm
Height	1,475mm	1,475mm
Wheelbase	2,550mm	2,550mm
Curb Weight	1,065kg	1,035kg (MT), 1,040kg (AT)
Body Style	5-Door Hatchback	5-Door Hatchback
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut with Stabilizer	McPherson Strut with Stabilizer
Rear Suspension	Twist Beam with Stabilizer	Twist Beam with Stabilizer
Front Brakes	Ventilated Discs	Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes	Solid Brakes	Drum Brakes
Tires	185/60 R15	185/60 R15
Wheels	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brake Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brake Distribution
Traction/Stability Control	None	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: None	ISOFIX Seats
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Side Mirror Signal Repeaters	Rear Wiper
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: None	Multi-Information Display, Rear Console Box without Lid, Passenger Side Seat Back Pockets, 60/40 Split Fold Rear Seats
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold	Steering , Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Manual	Manual
Audio System	Integrated AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB	Integrated AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB
Speakers	4	4
Steering Wheel Controls	Audio	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes
RIVALS	Chevrolet Sonic Hatchback, Ford Fiesta Hatchback, Honda Jazz, Kia Rio, Mazda 2 Hatchback, Suzuki Swift

See previous generation models of the Yaris:

Toyota Yaris (2007-2013)

Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)

Myk Belmonte explores the magic of this unnoticed hatchback back then.

2007-2014 Toyota Yaris

History
The Yaris (or Echo for some folks) nameplate was first launched in 1999 in hatchback, sedan or coupe styles that is based from the Toyota Platz in which it replaced the long due Starlet. It had three generations using that name in which one can buy with a trunk or not in a variety of names worldwide.

Made available in 2005, the Yaris hatchback is designed in Europe while the sedan derivative (known as the Belta) was conceived in Japan. Both variants share drivetrain components and the frame but their sheet metal is different. Bet you didn't know that from 2011 until 2013, this vehicle was sold using the Daihatsu Charade badge in Europe, as it is the last vehicle bearing the Daihatsu badge since it was leaving that market in January 2013.

After the Echo's unfavorable run, the Yaris was launched in 2007 to compete in the intense rivalry of sub-compact hatchbacks sparked by the Honda Jazz. Although not a flop compared to its predecessor, it sold less than the main market leader. It hanged on to receive updates in June 2009 and March 2012 until a replacement model was introduced in April 2014.

Value and Costs
Since it has been three months after the launching of the new model, prices are flirting between the range of P300,000-P450,000. Best bet is to find a unit sold in September 2011 or later to take advantage of the remainder of the warranty.

This is a Toyota, so expect it to last longer than you will do. Parts are similar to the Vios despite this one being a limited quantity model. With most units that you might encounter being mostly used inside the city, checking them out rigorously for wear and tear parts is the key.

Exterior and Interior
Unlike the bulbous flanks of the Vios, the Yaris is more attractive to look at unlike competitors that are too pedestrian to look at. We shall let the design speak for itself, and oh, lest I forget, the updated models in June 2009 and March 2012 have different grilles, bumpers, headlamps, and one set of wheels for the remainder period.

Going inside, you will have a hint towards its design target: the youth and younger drivers. There are tons of storage bins inside, but the biggest flaw is the lack of flexibility especially it has a single folding rear bench that will do trouble when you need it. Another weakness is the small aircon controls and the gauges (situated at the center) and radio screen tend to wash out on extreme sunlight. Other than these gripes, occupants get comfortable seating inside.

Engine
While the Jazz carries two engines, the Yaris has only one to make you life easier in the form of a 1NZ-FE 1,497cc with figures of 107hp at 6,000rpm and 142Nm at 4,200rpm. You will like revving this engine unlike in its sedan sibling, it is willing and fun.

Driving Impressions
It has its own distinct personality, especially it is well planted around the twisties outside the city although the steering is light and sensitive. Its short length gives it a strength over maneuvering around town.

Verdict
While Toyotas are known to be dependable appliances, the Yaris has some qualities to get it going. If you can live without carrying passengers too much, then the Yaris is a good choice but the Jazz is the best overall.

The Good:

• Easy to live with
• Fun to drive
• Funky character

The Bad:

• Lacks the space
• Only one variant
• Only one engine

The Pick: 1.5, you have no choice

THE SPECS

Engine: 1,497cc 1NZ-FE I4 gasoline

Power: 107hp @ 6,000rpm

Torque: 142Nm @ 4,200rpm

Fuel Consumption: 9-12km/L (city), 11-14km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)

Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic

Suspension: Front independent McPherson strut, rear rigid axle with torsion beam

MORE INFO

Price (New): P721,000-P780,000

Price (Now): P300,000-P450,000

Rivals: Ford Fiesta Hatchback, Honda Jazz, Mazda 2 Hatchback, Suzuki Swift

On Sale: 2007-2014

Resources:

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/index.php?s=707523005616bdcdefa9842ed227c733

http://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/forum/49-yaris-club/

Contacts:

Toyota Bicutan - (02) 777-9500

Toyota Manila Bay - (02) 581-6168

Photos from http://olx.ph/46390811