2018 Toyota Yaris Review

The 2018 Toyota Yaris is a subcompact hatchback that offers reliable transportation in an affordable package. While not the most exciting vehicle in its class, the Yaris provides good fuel economy, easy maneuverability, and Toyota’s reputation for dependability.

Exterior Design

For 2018, Toyota refreshed the Yaris’ exterior styling:

• New front fascia with redesigned grille and headlights
• Updated rear end with wider taillights
• Available 16-inch alloy wheels on higher trims
• Compact dimensions make it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces
• Available in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback body styles

While not a head-turner, the updated styling gives the Yaris a more modern and sporty appearance compared to previous model years.

Interior and Features

The Yaris offers a straightforward interior with these key features:

• Seating for 5 passengers
• 15.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind rear seats (5-door model)
• Standard 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Available navigation on higher trims
• Fabric upholstery with available leather-trimmed steering wheel
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense C with pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams

The cabin uses mostly hard plastics, but build quality is good for the price point. Higher trims add niceties like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Performance and Driving

The 2018 Yaris is powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include:

• 5-speed manual (standard on L trim)
• 4-speed automatic
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Key performance specs:

• 0-60 mph: Around 9.5 seconds
• Top speed: 109 mph
• Fuel economy: Up to 30 mpg city / 36 mpg highway

On the road, the Yaris provides:

• Adequate acceleration for city driving
• Nimble handling thanks to compact size
• Comfortable ride quality for a small car
• Good visibility and easy parking

While not sporty, the Yaris is easy to drive and sips fuel. The manual transmission provides better performance, while the CVT maximizes fuel efficiency.

Safety

The 2018 Yaris comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense C, which includes:

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure alert
• Automatic high beams

Other safety features include:

• 9 airbags
• Rearview camera
• Whiplash-injury-lessening front seats
• Toyota’s Star Safety System (stability control, traction control, ABS, etc.)

The Yaris earned a 4-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and Good ratings in most IIHS crash tests.

Pricing and Trims

The 2018 Yaris is available in three trim levels:

• L: Starting around $15,635
• LE: Starting around $17,285
• SE: Starting around $18,260

Key features by trim:

• L: Basic features like 6.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB port
• LE: Adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, remote keyless entry
• SE: Adds leather-trimmed steering wheel, sport-tuned suspension, LED daytime running lights

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• Good fuel economy
• Easy to drive and park
• Standard advanced safety features
• Toyota reliability reputation

Cons:

• Underpowered engine
• Dated 4-speed automatic transmission
• Limited rear seat space
• No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Less engaging to drive than some rivals

The Verdict

The 2018 Toyota Yaris is a practical and economical choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize reliability and fuel efficiency. While not the most exciting or spacious option in its class, the Yaris offers good value, easy maneuverability, and Toyota’s reputation for dependability. It’s best suited for city driving and those who want simple, no-frills transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the 2018 Toyota Yaris reliable?
   Yes, the Yaris has a strong reputation for reliability. It typically ranks highly in dependability studies.
2. What is the fuel economy of the 2018 Yaris?
   The Yaris can achieve up to 30 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the CVT transmission.
3. Does the 2018 Yaris have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
   No, the 2018 model does not offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration.
4. How much cargo space does the Yaris have?
   The 5-door Yaris offers 15.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
5. Is the Yaris good for long trips?
   While capable of highway driving, the Yaris is better suited for shorter trips and city driving due to its small size and modest engine power.

Citations:
[1] https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/yaris-2018
[2] https://media.toyota.ca/en/releases/2017/be-nimble-and-quick-in-the-2018-toyota-yaris-hatchback.html
[3] https://www.auto123.com/en/new-cars/technical-specs/toyota/yaris/2018/hatchback/se-5-door/
[4] https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/yaris/hatchback/used-review/n782/reliability
[5] https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/yaris/2018
[6] https://www.kbb.com/toyota/yaris/2018/specs/
[7] https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/toyota_yaris_2018
[8] https://www.carsguide.com.au/toyota/yaris/2018
[9] https://www.carexpert.com.au/toyota/yaris/2018-ascent-d604e2e9
[10] https://www.autodeal.com.ph/articles/car-reviews/review-2018-toyota-yaris-1-5-s-cvt
[11] https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/yaris/2018/review/
[12] https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/g79zns/is_a_20162018_toyota_yaris_a_dependable_reliable/
[13] https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-reviews/toyota-yaris-sx-auto-67318
[14] https://www.cars.com/research/toyota-yaris-2018/
[15] https://www.cars.com/research/toyota-yaris-2018/consumer-reviews/
[16] https://www.autoindustriya.com/car-reviews/2018-toyota-yaris-1-3e-cvt.html