The center console differs in style between the two models, but the stereo and air conditioning functions are, in typical Toyota fashion, equally easy to view and use. Turn signals and lights are operated by the leftside steering column-mounted stalk; the right stalk is for the front wipers (plus a rear wiper in the liftback). Storage bins abound, on either side of the center stack and along the doors. For those cars equipped with the MP3 stereo, the center console includes an auxiliary input.

Overall, the Yaris controls are all very intuitive, the interior is comfy and the trim and upholstery appear classy. There would be no shame in taking the boss out to lunch or your mother-in-law to the opera in a Yaris.

Driving Impressions

It would be hard to come up with better inter-urban transportation than the new Toyota Yaris, price considered or not. Forget the "entry-level" label. The Yaris feels and performs much better than its MSRP would suggest. The economical 1.5-liter engine has more than enough power to keep up with the pack, the supple ride smoothes out most bumps and dips, the handling is almost sporty when the road opens up, the steering feels classes above entry level, and the brakes haul the 2,300-pound car to a halt with confidence. Pedal feel is direct, and even though the rear brakes are drums and not discs, stopping power is more than sufficient. Pedal feel is especially good (something we can't say about some of the upscale electronic braking systems on the market).

Still, you know this isn't a Lexus, or even a Camry, from the clearly heard engine and some road noise. These are constant reminders of the car's small size and light weight, but there's little else about its road manners to complain about. The reason for that is its extremely rigid structure. Various braces and crossmembers were designed to offset vibration and several types of undercoatings and damping materials were applied to reduce noise, and the results are impressive. Rough road, railroad tracks and potholes are certainly felt but are pleasantly muted by the car's solid integrity.

The Yaris has no problem keeping up with traffic and is especially usable for in-town duty. The engine revs freely and smoothly and will tolerate near-redline rpm without squawking. On the highway, fifth gear is definitely just for cruising, but a quick downshift to fourth delivers comfortable passing power. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine features variable valve timing, direct ignition and an electronic throttle. It's the same engine used in the Scion xA and xB.

The standard five-speed manual is a joy to work, both around town and in the wide-open spaces. The shifts are creamy smooth and the gear ratios are well spaced, especially for the cut and thrust of city life. First gear delivers good throttle response, while second and third are flexible enough that it's easy to keep the engine's power flowing smoothly without having to constantly row the shift lever. Fourth gear is good for passing at highway speeds, while fifth allows comfortable cruising up to about 80 mph.

There's plenty to like, too, about the four-speed automatic, which features the first gated shifter in class. Some acceleration power is compromised, but the smooth upshifts and crisp downshifts make it a commuter's best friend. And, like every other control element of the Yaris, the shift lever is well placed and a cinch to operate.

The standard 14-inch wheel and tire package prefers city work to excursions through the canyons. The optional 15-inch running gear sharpens up the handling and steering and makes the car an agreeable companion through the corners. There's still some body roll when the corners get tight, but it comes and goes with no surprises or awkward weight transitions. The front independent suspension is newly developed and is 47 percent stiffer than the Echo. The torsion beam rear suspension features anti-lift geometry for more stable braking and a toe correction function for enhanced straight line stability. The new electric power steering rack only adds to the confidence-inspiring road manners. Not only does it help fuel mileage by eliminating a power-sapping hydraulic pump, it can be tuned for a specific feel, and Toyota's engineers did a marvelous job making this one feel just right, with crisp response to driver input and plenty of on-center feel.

An economy car must, of course, deliver good fuel mileage. The EPA estimates the Yaris should deliver 34 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. How much a Yaris actually achieves is entirely up to the driver, as a heavy right foot will make the EPA's estimates seem like gross exaggerations, but because of its flexible powertrain and economy-directed gear ratios, achieving the government figures is not out of the question.