2006-2011 Toyota Yaris Pre-Owned

History/Description: Replacing the Echo was Toyota’s subcompact sedan & hatch, the Yaris. Available from 2006 to 2011 in its last generation, Yaris packed four-cylinder power, a flexible interior and feature content including stability control, antilock brakes, air conditioning, cruise control, power accessories and more – depending on the year and model. Alloy wheels and fog lamps were available too, adding a sense of street-smart flair on some models.

2007 Toyota Yaris sedan (Photo: Auto123.com)

Look for a 1.5L four-cylinder engine with 106 hp on all models. A five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic were available. Folding rear seats in the Yaris hatchback, particularly, helped enhance flexibility and day-to-day utility.

Note that models wearing the CE designation were the base models, while LE or RS, for instance, represented higher-end versions.

What Owners Like: Typically, Toyota’s reputation, fuel efficiency and a high degree of utility and maneuverability are raved about by Yaris owners. Handling dynamics, relatively speaking, are also highly rated. Interior roominess rounds out the package.

What Owners Dislike: Common complaints include a less-than-stable feel driving in rain or snow, a lack of power and limited at-hand storage for smaller items in the cabin. Some owners wish for a heavier, more stable and ‘safer’ driving feel. Finally, appreciation for the Yaris’s centre-mounted instrument cluster is mixed at best.

Common Issues: Yaris is a compact car with an all-star reputation for reliability – though a few issues are noted in used models, and standard checks do apply.

Start a test-drive of a used Toyota Yaris with a walk-around, checking the paint for signs of chipping, scratches or rust. Some owners report that the Yaris’s bodywork is thin and lightweight, making it easy to scratch and dent.

Check the speakers for proper operation at all volume ranges, as intermittent operation of front speakers is not unheard of.

2008 Toyota Yaris Hatchback (Photo: Philippe Champoux)