The Toyota Yaris iA, introduced to the market the previous year, quickly established itself as a standout in the subcompact segment. Praised for its engaging driving dynamics, advanced safety technology, and a surprising array of premium features, this vehicle redefines expectations for entry-level cars. With a starting MSRP under $16,000, the question arises: can a car in this price range genuinely be considered a sport sedan? The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA emphatically answers yes.
Beneath its stylish and boldly sculpted exterior lies a responsive and agile machine that challenges the conventional notion of “entry-level.” The Yaris iA boasts a robust high-strength body structure paired with a lively and efficient 1.5-liter engine. This high-compression powerplant delivers 106 horsepower, providing ample pep for city driving and confident highway merging. Drivers can choose between a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission for a more engaging experience or a smooth and responsive 6-speed automatic. Standard 16-inch alloy wheels further enhance the sporty stance and handling of the Yaris iA, making it genuinely appealing to driving enthusiasts and those simply seeking enjoyable and reliable transportation. The inclusion of a standard 7-inch multimedia system with voice recognition is another unexpected premium touch in this class, adding convenience and connectivity.
Toyota prioritizes safety, and the 2018 Yaris iA reflects this commitment with its standard Low-speed Pre-collision Safety System. This feature, remarkable for its price point, embodies Toyota’s dedication to making automatic emergency braking standard across nearly its entire model lineup. For buyers in the small sedan category, fuel economy is paramount, and the Yaris iA excels in this area. Equipped with the automatic transmission, it achieves an EPA-estimated 32 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined. The manual transmission version offers a still-impressive 30 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined.
The striking exterior design of the Yaris iA ensures it stands out from the crowd. Its eye-catching hexagonal lower front grille and sharp, focused headlights create a distinctive front fascia. The spacious trunk contributes to the Yaris iA’s unique silhouette within the subcompact segment. For added practicality, a standard 60/40-split rear seat expands cargo-carrying versatility, accommodating larger items with ease. Upscale details like the piano black bumper accents, chrome grille surround, and chrome tailpipe further elevate the Yaris iA beyond typical entry-level expectations. The available color palette offers a range of vibrant and sophisticated choices, including Stealth, Abyss, Graphite, Pulse, Sapphire, Chromium, and Frost, allowing drivers to personalize their Yaris iA.
The surprises continue inside the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA. Standard Keyless Entry with Push-Button Start adds a touch of modern convenience typically found in higher-priced vehicles. Once you press the start button, the Yaris iA comes to life, ready to navigate daily commutes with ease and efficiency. The transmissions play a crucial role in the Yaris iA’s responsive and fuel-sipping performance. The standard 6-speed manual transmission is engineered to be compact, lightweight, and exceptionally low in friction, resulting in smooth and precise shifts that enhance the driving experience. The available 6-speed automatic transmission is equally adept, offering both smooth starts and sporty performance. This torque-converter automatic provides the refined smoothness expected at low speeds, while also locking up for quicker shifts and improved fuel efficiency at higher speeds. For drivers seeking a more dynamic feel, Sport Mode can be engaged with a simple flick of a switch, sharpening throttle response and shift points.
Agility is inherent in the Yaris iA’s design. Its body structure strategically utilizes high-tensile steel, employing straight beams wherever possible to create a continuous framework that ensures structural integrity and harmonious performance of individual sections. This robust structure allows for finely tuned suspension, achieving an ideal balance between sporty handling and a comfortable ride. The MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension are carefully calibrated to provide both responsive cornering and a smooth ride over varying road surfaces. The steering and braking systems have also been meticulously tuned. A rigid steering mount delivers direct and light steering feel, while the brakes are engineered for progressive feedback, providing smooth initial engagement and increasing firmness as G-forces build during cornering.
Safety is a key highlight of the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA. The high-strength body structure serves as the foundation for its safety features. A robust H-shaped joint reinforces the roof and B-pillars to the underbody, working in conjunction with high-tensile steel in critical frame members and the floor to create a solid and protective structure. The Yaris iA comes standard with an advanced Active Safety System, encompassing Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Brake Over-ride System (BOS). Furthermore, front side airbags and curtain airbags provide comprehensive occupant protection for both front and rear passengers. A rearview backup camera is also included as standard equipment, enhancing visibility and parking safety. The centerpiece of the Active Safety System is the Low-Speed Pre-Collision System, which scans the road ahead for potential collisions with vehicles. If a potential frontal collision is detected, the system provides an audio/visual alert and initiates braking assistance. If the driver does not respond, the system is designed to automatically apply the brakes, potentially mitigating or preventing a collision.
The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA effectively redefines the notion of “entry-level.” Premium touches like chrome accents and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin contradict its affordable price tag. The interior is designed to accommodate a wide range of drivers, featuring a 10-inch fore-aft slide adjustment and a standard seat height adjuster. The steering wheel offers both tilt and telescoping adjustments, ensuring a comfortable driving position for virtually anyone. Cruise control, power windows and locks, and power exterior mirrors are all standard, adding to the convenience and comfort. The sporty steering wheel integrates control switches for the audio system and standard Bluetooth connectivity. The standard 7-inch Display Audio system features a user-friendly touch screen, six speakers, and a remote interface. Pandora, Aha, and Stitcher integration are also standard, providing access to a vast world of music, talk radio, and podcasts when paired with a compatible smartphone. For personal media, two USB ports and an auxiliary input are included. Voice recognition technology allows drivers to control many multimedia system functions while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. An available navigation system can be added through Toyota dealerships for enhanced guidance.
Warranty and Toyota Care
The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty. A 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty covers all components except for normal wear and maintenance items. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months or 60,000 miles, and corrosion protection is provided for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Standard Toyota Care further enhances the ownership experience with a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA proves that an affordable subcompact car can deliver sporty performance, advanced safety features, and premium amenities, making it an exceptional value in its class.
