Take a long look at the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA, especially at the back. Notice how it doesn't really look like other Toyotas? Now, peek into the cabin. Apart from the badge on the steering wheel, there's zero family resemblance. This is because the iA is designed and produced by Mazda. Mazda doesn't have an equivalent to the iA in its lineup, but take a look at its cars and you'll quickly see where the iA's DNA really comes from.

We point this out because Mazda is quite good at building small cars. If anything, this Toyota and Mazda partnership is a best-of-both-worlds scenario. The iA benefits from Mazda's design approach that results in a fun-to-drive nature, excellent fuel economy and stylish, high-quality interior design. Yet, since it's sold by Toyota, the iA comes standard with plenty of features (including advanced driver safety aids) and is available to more people because of Toyota's larger dealer network.

But there are some reasons to think twice about the iA. For starters, it doesn't have a lot of power — even for a segment known for being on the slow side. Interior space can also be an issue because backseat legroom and driver-seat adjustability are limited relative the competition. Some may also lament that there's no hatchback body style or a cheaper, lesser-equipped base model available.

In total, though, we think the 2018 Yaris iA is a must-drive for anyone seeking an affordable subcompact sedan — no matter which company makes it.

Toyota Yaris iA models

The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA subcompact sedan comes in just one trim level. Power is supplied by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (106 horsepower, 103 pound-feet of torque). A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic is optional.

Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories (locks, windows and mirrors), keyless ignition and entry, a rearview camera, a low-speed forward collision warning and automatic braking system, cruise control, air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, the Mazda Connect tech interface in all but name (7-inch display, knob-and-button controller, touchscreen operation when parked), two USB ports, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with an auxiliary audio jack, media player interface and HD radio. There are no factory options beyond paint color and transmission.

Trim tested

The ratings in this review are based on our full test of a 2016 Scion iA (1.5L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current iA has been renamed the Toyota Yaris iA, but is fundamentally the same car with no significant changes. Our findings remain applicable to this year's Yaris iA.

Scorecard

Overall	7.2 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	6.5
Interior	7.0
Utility	6.5

Driving

7.0

Like most subcompacts, there's little emphasis on performance in the Yaris iA. Its Mazda roots offer decent performance, though the Yaris' acceleration is a touch slower than the best in the segment.

Acceleration

6.5

Keep your expectations realistic and plan ahead since there's never a lot of thrust available. Sport mode livens up responses. In our testing, the iA accelerated to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds with the manual transmission. The automatic-transmission version is slower still.

Braking

6.5

The brakes are predictable and easily modulated around town. Emergency braking performance is average.

Handling

7.0

You can have some fun behind the wheel despite the relatively low grip limits of the tires.

Drivability

7.0

Other than being fairly slow (which requires planning), the Yaris iA exhibits few flaws. It follows rain grooves, sometimes aggressively, on the freeway and isn't as stable as some competitors.

Comfort

6.5

Ride comfort is average. The front seats are very supportive and comfortable, even on long-distance drives.

Seat comfort

7.0

The firm but supportive seats with good adjustability provide all you need on multi-hour trips.

Ride comfort

6.5

The Yaris iA's ride is taut. You'll feel sharp bumps, but the car is controlled overall.

Noise & vibration

6.5

One of our two test cars exhibited a wind whistle in the driver's window area, even at low speed. Levels of road and tire noise are no worse than in most subcompacts, however.

Interior

7.0

Overall, the iA's interior is a win. The stitched leather-look material on the dash and the doors is a clear step up from the segment standard. The basic but effective climate controls are easy to reach. The seat material is excellent. But some trim pieces still look and feel cheap.

Ease of use

7.5

Though its main controller and volume knob aren't as well placed as they could be, the infotainment system is easy to use. Steering wheel controls allow easy access to high-priority switches.

Getting in/getting out

6.5

The center roof pillar can interfere with the driver's seat if the seat is positioned rearward for a tall driver. The front doors are large and open quite wide, though. The rear door openings are small, and the doors don't open wide enough for large passengers.

Roominess

6.5

Front seat space is ample. There's good headroom and elbow room, though there's no center armrest. The rear seats lack legroom and feel confining for tall occupants. A low roofline impedes headroom.

Visibility

6.5

The view forward is OK despite heavily sloped front roof pillars. The rear pillars are large and inhibit views over your shoulder. The tall rear decklid limits rear visibility as well.

Quality

8.0

A mix of better than segment-standard materials and hard, cheap plastics make up the Yaris iA's interior. Very good seat material and solid secondary controls give the iA a quality feel.

Utility

6.5

The 13.5-cubic-foot trunk is average for the segment. The folding split rear seats improve cargo space, but they don't fold flat, which hurts utility. No center console. Marginal small-item storage.

Technology

The iA features Mazda's tech interface — a dash-top screen (touch-sensitive when the car is stopped) and a center console button-and-knob controller. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available, but every iA comes with standard forward collision warning and automatic braking.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA.

Average user rating: 4.4 stars

9 total reviews

Write a review

See all 9 reviews

5 star reviews: 67%

4 star reviews: 22%

3 star reviews: 0%

2 star reviews: 11%

1 star reviews: 0%

Most helpful consumer reviews

5/5 stars, By far the cheapest "Luxury" car you can buy!

Larry Camura, 03/27/2018

4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

It would be difficult to find a small car cheaper than ~$17,000 w/ two years free maintenance. And yet this car feels like a very well appointed miniature Honda Accord or Camry. It is far away more appealing than even Toyota's own original Yaris (not the iA). The fact that Mazda makes his car makes total sense because the car is far from boring, as long as one keeps in mind the ultra

4/5 stars, Not a bad at all - especially for the low price

Fred j geiger, 01/14/2019

4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

Likely the only car in its price range that I would be willing to buy for myself or a relative. If you don't actually need anything bigger than this the car has great economy , price and reliability and is not a buzz box at all even on the highway and has a quite nice interior.

5/5 stars, Love it.

Abe! , 05/24/2019

4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

Use for wrk. Drive 8 hrs a day. And I’m tall at 6’. Car feels good.

5/5 stars, Love my Yaris IA

Karlee, 06/03/2018

4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

I love my car! It’s perfect for great gas mileage and I love all the premium features that are standard on such a small, inexpensive car

See all 9 reviews

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Features & Specs

Trim

Base MSRP: $17,050

MPG & Fuel: 32 City / 40 Hwy / 35 Combined; Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.6 gal. capacity

Seating: 5 seats

Drivetrain: Type: front wheel drive; Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic

Engine: Inline 4 cylinder; Horsepower: 106 hp @ 6000 rpm; Torque: 103 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Basic Warranty: 3 yr./ 36000 mi.

Dimensions: Length: 171.7 in. / Height: 58.5 in.; Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A; Overall Width without Mirrors: 66.7 in.; Curb Weight: 2416 lbs.; Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 13.5 cu.ft.

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Yaris iA models:

Low-Speed Pre-Collision System: Warns you of obstacles ahead and automatically brakes if necessary. Works only at lower speeds.
Dynamic Stability Control: Senses when the car is losing traction or control and uses various means to get you straight again.
Brake Assist: Brake Assist

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	4 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	13%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test	Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test	Good

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FAQ

Is the Toyota Yaris iA a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2018 Yaris iA both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.2 out of 10. You probably care about Toyota Yaris iA fuel economy, so it's important to know that the Yaris iA gets an EPA-estimated 34 mpg to 35 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Yaris iA has 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Toyota Yaris iA. Learn more

Is the Toyota Yaris iA reliable?

To determine whether the Toyota Yaris iA is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Yaris iA. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Yaris iA's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2018 Yaris iA and gave it a 7.2 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2018 Yaris iA is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

The least-expensive 2018 Toyota Yaris iA is the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $15,950.

Other versions include:

4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $15,950
4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $17,050

Learn more

What are the different models of Toyota Yaris iA?

If you're interested in the Toyota Yaris iA, the next question is, which Yaris iA model is right for you? Yaris iA variants include 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6M), and 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A). For a full list of Yaris iA models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA

The 2018 Toyota Yaris iA could be an ideal choice if you're hoping to find a subcompact sedan that's fun to drive and packs in a lot of features for an agreeable price.

If the Yaris iA name is familiar, it's because this car originally debuted as a Scion, Toyota's now-defunct youth-oriented brand. Rather than just let it die with Scion, though, Toyota kept it going, just with a Toyota badge. Other than the badging, little else about this economical and well-appointed subcompact has changed — and that goes for 2018, which brings no changes.

Toyota offers the Yaris iA in one feature-packed trim level only. But you get a good number of standard safety and technology features. Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, and a 7-inch infotainment display are all standard. One surprise standard safety feature is a low-speed forward collision warning system with automatic braking. Such a feature is rare in the subcompact class, especially as standard equipment.

The Yaris iA is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 106 horsepower. You'll be putting the go-pedal to the floor to get up to highway speeds quickly, even more so than you would in other subcompacts in the segment.

You have your choice of either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Either version gets you very good fuel economy. The Yaris iA is also light and nimble, and we think it's as fun to drive as any other vehicle in its class.

The interior is really where the Yaris iA begins to best its competition. There's greater refinement and quality. The dash controls and infotainment system are well-configured, and it has above-average cargo space in the trunk, a low liftover height and an easy-to-use 60/40-split folding rear seat. Downsides include limited rear passenger room and a driving position that won't appeal to taller drivers.

Overall, the 2018 Yaris iA is a solid, well-rounded performer that betters class rivals in many areas. If you're in the market for an economical subcompact sedan, let Edmunds help you find the perfect 2018 Toyota Yaris iA.

Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA Overview

The Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA is offered in the following submodels: Yaris iA Sedan. Available styles include 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6M), and 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A). The Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual, 6-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 2 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 60000 mi. powertrain warranty.

What do people think of the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the Used 2018 Yaris iA 4.4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the Used 2018 Yaris iA.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Yaris iA featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

The Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $17,970. The average price paid for a new Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A) is trending $3,559 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $3,559 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $14,411.

The average savings for the Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A) is 19.8% below the MSRP.

Which used 2018 Toyota Yaris iAS are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Toyota Yaris iA for sale near. There are currently 8 used and CPO 2018 Yaris iAS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $15,424 and mileage as low as 14446 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA.

Can't find a new 2018 Toyota Yaris iAs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Toyota for sale - 5 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $24,257.

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

What is the MPG of a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6M), 6-speed manual, regular unleaded
34 compined MPG,
30 city MPG/39 highway MPG

2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
35 compined MPG,
32 city MPG/40 highway MPG

EPA Est. MPG	34
Transmission	6-speed manual
Drive Train	front wheel drive
Displacement	1.5 L
Passenger Volume	99.4 cu.ft.

Wheelbase	101.2 in.
Length	171.7 in.
Width	N/A
Height	58.5 in.
Curb Weight	2385 lbs.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Toyota lease specials
Check out Toyota Yaris iA lease specials

Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA

Which Yaris iA does Edmunds recommend?

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

Toyota Yaris iA models

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Technology

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Features & Specs

Safety

Our experts like the Yaris iA models:

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

IIHS Rating

People who viewed this also viewed

FAQ

Is the Toyota Yaris iA a good car?

Is the Toyota Yaris iA reliable?

Is the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

What are the different models of Toyota Yaris iA?

Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA Overview

What do people think of the 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Our Review Process

What's a good price for a New Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Used 2018 Toyota Yaris iA 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl 6A)

Which used 2018 Toyota Yaris iAS are available in my area?

Can't find a new 2018 Toyota Yaris iAs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Why trust Edmunds?

What is the MPG of a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Toyota Yaris iA?

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