New 2010 Toyota Yaris

The 2010 Toyota Yaris subcompact isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable, safe and incredibly fuel efficient for a non-hybrid.

The entry-level Toyota Yaris was first introduced in the U.S. in 2007 replacing the Echo. Inexpensive and economical in every sense of the word, the 2010 Toyota Yaris can seat up to five passengers and is available as a two-door hatchback, four-door hatchback (introduced last year) or four-door sedan, which is 20 inches longer than the hatchback and also has a longer wheelbase providing more room for rear passengers.

Competing against the Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit and Hyundai Accent, the 2010 Toyota Yaris is powered by a capable 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter inline-4 engine with variable valve timing mated to a four-speed automatic or a new five-speed manual transmission. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are stellar topping out at 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. New standard features for 2010 include an electronic stability system, traction control and rear defroster. The Yaris offers a tight turning radius of 32.6 feet for the sedan and 30.8 feet for the hatchback.

The 2010 Toyota Yaris sits on 14- or 15-inch wheels and exterior options include a rear wiper on the hatchback, fog lamps and power locks, windows and mirrors. Inside, an available 60/40-split rear seat for the hatchback reclines and slides forward and backward. Options include cruise control, remote keyless entry, CD player with auxiliary jack and 60/40-split folding backseat (sedan only).

Sedan S models provide a sporty look to the Yaris, featuring color-keyed front and rear under-bumper spoilers, illuminated tachometer, sport seat fabric, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, AM/FM/CD player with MP3 and satellite radio capability.

Standard safety features include front-seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags Driver and passenger advanced dual-stage front airbags inflate according to collision severity. A front seat passenger sensor detects the seat’s weight capacity to determine whether the airbag should inflate and how much. Additional standard safety features include antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and daytime running lamps (available only on hatchback models). All seating positions offer height-adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts.

With class-leading standard safety features and excellent fuel economy, the entry-level 2010 Toyota Yaris subcompact is a perfect vehicle for young first-time car buyers.