The alternative to the Honda Fit
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I Say
75% By Luc Gagné
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
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Gas prices are rising and falling... and rising again and falling again. Small fuel-efficient cars, or econoboxes, offer a golden opportunity to become immune to this yo-yo. Since 2004, the Toyota Yaris has been dominating the market, easily overtaking such rivals as the Hyundai Accent and Nissan Versa.
People buy the Toyota Yaris not just for the sake of buying a cheap car, but because they love it! This econobox now enjoys cult-like popularity.
Back in 2001, there were only four models in this segment. In recent years, however, there's been an explosion with regard to the number of alternatives and the overall sales figures. The end is nowhere near; in fact, other models will soon join the party, like the new Ford Fiesta.
With that in mind, I was handed the keys to a 2009 Toyota Yaris Hatchback LE, which is the base model in 5-door configuration. The higher-end RS essentially stands out with a couple of added features and, of course, a $4,500 premium.
The Yaris lineup also includes a 4-door sedan which appeals to more conservative customers. The car is 48-centimeter longer overall, yet the interior lacks the versatility of the hatchback. Besides, it does not sport the same facial expression as the latter.
More versatile
Truth be told, it's easy to fall in love with the 5-door Yaris. The cutesy look and practical ways make it more attractive than a plain-looking sedan with a narrow trunk opening.
In the hatchback, the 60/40 split rear seats fold in a flash to accommodate large items, like a plasma TV. Don't even think about it if you're using the sedan!
As a matter of fact, folding the seatbacks triples the available cargo room (from 228 to 728 liters). Granted, the maximum capacity of a Honda Fit is more than double (1,622 L) and the new Chevrolet Aveo5 can hold up to 1,190 liters, but if you have to choose between the Yaris Hatchback and Sedan (with a trunk of only 365 liters), the decision is pretty easy.
The versatile trunk of the Yaris Hatchback is easily accessible and, while the cargo capacity might not be the largest in the segment, it's still pretty decent.
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