2017 Toyota Yaris iA

Toyota mostly fulfills its reputation for building efficient and exceptionally reliable vehicles. Most of their models do well in our testing, thanks to their impressive fuel economy, comfortable rides, quiet cabins, and ease of getting in and out. All of this makes Toyotas among the best options for used vehicles. The brand was a hybrid pioneer, starting with the original Prius. Toyota has evolved and expanded that technology, and most vehicles in its lineup are available as a hybrid. Toyota also sells a number of plug-in hybrids, which were once called Prime but are now simply referred to as Plug-in. The company also knows how to add a dose of excitement into its lineup. The GR86, GR Corolla, and Supra are legit, fun-to-drive sports cars. However, some models we’ve tested have been disappointing. The company’s EV, the bZ4X SUV, is mediocre.

For 2017, the Scion iA is renamed the Toyota Yaris iA. This four-door sedan is actually built by Mazda and is based on the new Mazda2 (not sold in the U.S.). It is powered by a 106-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder coupled to either a six-speed manual or an automatic. In our testing we got 35 mpg overall with the automatic. The iA proves to be quite pleasant for a subcompact, with nimble handling and semi-decent interior decor. It also comes with a standard low-speed pre-collision system that helps the driver avoid collisions. A backup camera is standard. Just like in current Mazda models, the infotainment system consists of a center control knob and a screen, which takes some getting used to in order to master.  2018 was the final year for the Yaris iA.