Model tested Toyota Yaris SR 1.3 VVT-i
Price: £11,495
Date tested: May 2008
Road tester: Andy Goodwin

Overall rating: 78%
We've already sampled the talented Yaris 1.8 SR and concluded it was a fun "warm hatch". This new addition is equipped with a less powerful 1.3-litre motor, so it's easier on the pocket. Is its increase in value-for-money a fair trade off for a decrease in performance?

1. Looks
This isn't a car which shouts about its credentials; there are no twin exhausts, but you do get deep bumpers, a subtle spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels, plus a red 'SR' badge.
8/10

2. Looks inside
Ahead of the steering wheel is nothing but black dashboard; to the left are the instruments, centrally mounted in a 'pod'. It's novel at first but ultimately harder to read than traditional dials.
8/10

3. Practicality
If you want a practical supermini the Yaris is hard to beat; its cabin can accommodate lanky occupants with ease. The rear seats can be folded flat to increase boot space from 360 litres to more than 700 litres.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
Driving enthusiasts will love the sports-tuned suspension that gives great handling. For a driver looking to climb onto the first rung on the performance car ladder, the Yaris SR is a great introduction.
8/10

5. Performance
With only 86bhp on tap, 0-60mph takes 11.5 seconds. The engine is smooth and responsive while the gearchange is light, quick and precise.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
The SR sits in insurance group four and can officially average 47.1mpg with a manual gearbox or 48.7mpg with the MMT semi-automatic transmission. With emissions of 141g/km the 1.3-litre Yaris SR is in tax band C with an annual charge of £120.
7/10

7. Reliability
Toyota has one of the best reliability records in the motoring world. The Yaris should not cause its owners any issues as no major problems have been reported.
9/10

8. Safety
All Yarises have electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, the seats have anti-whiplash head restraints and there's a five-star EuroNCAP rating. The SR has front, side and driver's knee airbags and the passenger airbag can be deactivated.
9/10

9. Equipment
The star piece of equipment is the stereo with integrated TomTom sat-nav; a great piece of functionality but with a relatively small screen. Air conditioning and electric windows are standard.
7/10

10. X-Factor
For most Yaris buyers the 1.3-litre SR makes more sense than the less economical 1.8-litre model. It's fun to drive but has low running costs for those unlikely to care about straight-line performance but who still take pride in their wheels.
7/10