Best for: Economy
No longer a cheap, simple car (the Aygo X fulfils that duty these days), the Yaris offers a different kind of simplicity now, thanks to Toyota’s peace-of-mind-boosting engineering.
That sense of intrinsic longevity complements the 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain perfectly, with low running costs and slow depreciation as appealing side effects.
Okay, it’s not the most thrilling small hatchback to drive, but the Yaris nevertheless benefits from a nimbleness common to all diminutive cars, which makes it very effective around town.
That’s further amplified by its unshakable determination to eke every inch of motion from its petrol-electric powertrain, seamlessly slipping into EV mode at every possible opportunity. No matter how hard you drive it, the Yaris will do everything in its power to keep you averaging north of 50mpg.
Rear seat space is sufficient for a couple of adult passengers, although it helps if they’ve studied the methods of Harry Houdini to contort themselves out of the small door openings.
But aside from that, the Yaris is a good-quality, stylish small car with plenty of beneficial on-board technology.
