2008 Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is Toyota's replacement for the goofy Echo. But the Yaris is a much better basic transportation option than the Echo ever was. The Yaris actually looks somewhat stylish even though it is still a pudgy little car, but it offers perky performance and an interior that looks great, but is devoid of soft-touch materials. The hatchback comes with a very weak 1.3-litre mated to either a five-speed manual or a four-speed auto. Standard items include power steering, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, front and rear cupholders, two airbags, radio cassette player, 14-inch steel wheels, and ABS brakes. The suspension is independent in front and torsion beam in the rear. Options include a CD player with MP3 capability, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, 15-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler.